“For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” Romans 15:4
–We all need instruction, encouragement, and hope.
The Word is where this will be found. May we resolve (decide firmly on this course of action) to be in the Word daily, that we may have the truth not only for our own lives, but also for those that we come in contact with each day who need hope.
–We need the big picture.
Not only is the in-depth study of God’s Word and meditating upon it essential so that it becomes an integral part of who we are and how we live, but we must also constantly be exposing ourselves to the big picture, the truth of the Bible in its entirety.
This is helpful in our interpretation of scripture as we study, and it builds our faith as we are daily reminded of Who God is, what He does, and how He works.
–We need our faith to grow.
“So faith come from hearing, and hearing by the Word of Christ.”
When we know, believe, and are convinced of how powerfully He works, it is hard to consider our circumstances too hard for Him and not to trust Him. We need this daily reminder of how big and miraculous the God we love and serve is.
-We need the revelation.
And as we read through the whole Word of God each year, we are exposed to passages in His Living Word that we would not otherwise have that moment to engage with. The Holy Spirit then unpacks them and makes them come alive, teaching us valuable truths. Let’s determine to put ourselves in that receiving position and not miss those opportunities.
-We need to be equipped.
All scripture is profitable to teach, reprove, correct, and train us in righteousness so that we are equipped for every good work (2 Tim. 3:16,17).
May we not neglect this equipping and then use ‘I am not equipped’ as an excuse for any area of disobedience.
“To this end we always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of His calling and may fulfill every resolve for good and every work of faith by his power, so that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” 2 Thess. 1:11,12 ESV
-Would you resolve right now that you will be diligent to accurately handle the word of truth (2 Tim. 2:15), that you will seek out and plan for ways to meditate on, read, and study the whole counsel of God?
Then follow a plan to actually do it. And follow Him, obey what He shows you (transformation). May we be more and more transformed into His image this year as we expose ourselves to His truth and listen for and obey His voice.
Find more encouragement here: 5 Practices to Encourage a Successful Year of Bible Reading
Do you need a Bible reading plan? You can read about and print out my favorite here.
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