Hello my dear friends! Allow me to pose this question: Do you own your Bible and does it own you? An odd question, perhaps, but hear me out on this one.
No doubt, many of us own more than one copy of the Bible, probably in a variety of different translations, in various formats (computer, smart phone, study Bible, hard back, leather back, paper back, etc.). It has been said that there has never been a time in history where the Word of God has been made so available to so many people. And yet, our culture continues to race towards a secularized world view, where in many cases, the Western Church blends in, becoming just like the fallen world Christ came to rescue.
We are living in a time of great biblical famine. How can this be? Perhaps, we have failed to allow the Bible to own us: doing what it says and how it says we, as disciples of Jesus, should live.
Today's Psalms of Discipleship is a reminder of the great qualities the Word of God possesses: His Word is true, powerful, and eternal. May we live our lives like we really believe it is true.
Learning how to live it out with you,
Denny
Psalms of Discipleship—Principle #13
Life Principles For Those Who Choose To Follow Jesus And Live The Discipled Life
Key Scripture: 4 For the word of the LORD is upright, And all His work is done in faithfulness.
6 By the word of the LORD the heavens were made, And by the breath of His mouth all their host.
11 The counsel of the LORD stands forever, The plans of His heart from generation to generation. Psalm 33:4, 6, 11
Core Value: Bible Study
For the disciple of Jesus Christ, the Bible is to be the ultimate authority for living the Christian life. Some have called the Bible “Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.” Others have called it the “Manufacturer’s Handbook.” Whatever one chooses to call it, we must pledge our allegiance to the God of the Scriptures. We live in a day and time where God’s authority not only is being openly questioned, but aggressively challenged by those who refuse to submit to absolute truth. And please note: we are not saying we are to read and then submit to the teachings of Scripture only. We are to prayerfully read the Scriptures in the audience of the One who perfectly inspired every jot (letter) and tittle (stroke) [Matthew 5:18], every word and thought, every theme and principle. Authentic Bible reading and study must be done in relationship with Jesus. Meaningful Bible study is always founded upon our love for the Lord.
Consequently, spiritual transformation comes as we believe, obey and apply God’s Word to our heart.
Principle #13 & Personal Application: The quality disciple has a high regard for the authority of, the power of, and the eternal nature of the Word of God.
• The Word of God is true: We can trust it completely (vs. 4).
• The Word of God is powerful: We are in awe of it entirely (vs. 6).
• The Word of God is eternal. We can count on it forever (vs. 11).
Reflect & Respond: Some Really Good Questions To Ponder…
When I read and study my Bible, do I trust it completely; especially when it instructs me to do something that makes me very uncomfortable in doing (like turning the other cheek; like forgiving those who hurt me; like giving grace to those who do not deserve it)?
What is the last thing that God has spoken to me from His Word that caused me to grow closer to Him?
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, Your Word is true. I can trust it completely. Your Word is powerful. May I always be in awe of its message to my heart. Your word is eternal. While the writings of famous men come and go, Your Word will last forever. May I forever be touched and drawn closer to You by its eternal message.
The Essential Core Values Of The Quality Disciple Are…
Grace—Worship—Bible Study—Prayer—Community—Service—Evangelism
Denny Bates & Something New Christian Publishers © 2011 All rights reserved.
www.dennybates.com
http://thequalitydisciple.blogspot.com/
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