Reading the Bible

I am convinced that the church must reconnect with reading the Bible. I still believe that the Bible is God's Holy Word and that it was inspired through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Many commentators are referring to America as a nation of "spiritual illiterates." These words reflect a lack of knowledge and understanding of the basis of our belief as Christians. The foundation of our faith is found in the Truth revealed in the Word of God. A recent survey that I read revealed some startling statistics. I will share two (2) of them with you. "60% of Americans cannot name more than five of the Ten Commandments. 50% of Americans cannot name all four Gospels." These numbers reveal the fact that we have a problem in America.

I tremble when I say this but I do believe it is true. That same epidemic of not reading the Bible consistently and intentionally is invading the church world. We have more access to the Bible than ever before but we fail to spend much time in the pursuit of spiritual knowledge. We want to be up to date in all other aspects of life but fail to see the need to continue to grow in our knowledge of the Word of God. Culture says that our ability to focus and concentrate is lower than it has ever been. Our attention span is shorter according to these "experts." But we can set for several hours watching movies, television shows, sporting events and many other activities. Yet, we find ourselves bored or out of touch with the Word of God very quickly. I enjoy the Bible because I am drawn to the Author. The Author shares true, genuine and authentic Words that encourage and strengthen me on my journey. Is it possible that we need to become reacquainted with the Author? 

I want to share some words that the Author of the Bible shared with the Apostle Paul. He wrote them in a letter that he sent to the church at Thessalonica. We discussed a portion of this letter last night in our Discipleship Class. Let the Word of God speak to your heart today as you read it, ingest it, digest it and apply it to your everyday life.

I Thessalonians 5:11-19, "Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing. 12 And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, 13 and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves. 14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. 15 See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all. 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies. 21 Test all things; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil." (NKJV)

Blessings on you as you read the Word of God!!!