MAY 2
2 Timothy 3:16
Memorise Isaiah 55:11
“… it shall not return unto me void…”
HOW FAITHFUL ARE WE TO THE BIBLE?
The entire Bible is inspired – that is, divinely influenced by God Himself. It is not merely another book written by man. It is far better than the most famous books, those on the bestseller lists or made into blockbuster films. God is the Bible’s ultimate and divine author, and we are told that in studying this perfect and inspired book, it will certainly be profitable for us. To make a profit is to gain, and benefit. No matter what we do, be it study, practice an instrument or a hobby, or train in sports, it is always with the hope that we make gains, progress and thus profit. The Bible, which God inspired His servants to write, will surely lead to gains, never losses. There are four aspects which it will help us in: in doctrine – the principles of our beliefs, in reproving us –expresses disapproval for sin and error, in correcting us– showing us the right way, and finally in instruction – for righteous living.
You may study, train or practice hard and spend many hours in diligent dedication for profit in pursuits in this life armed with the latest technology, study techniques, equipment and training methods. However, sometimes the results don’t show and gains are not made. We may feel that the gains do not commensurate with our efforts put in. Now it’s definitely not wrong to work hard or ‘smart’ in our studies or work for testimony’s sake, and the glory of God, but what about working hard for spiritual profit that is guaranteed by your Heavenly Father? This is profit that will last beyond this earthly life, that will directly influence our walk with the Lord.
Perhaps the question asked in todays’ devotion should instead be, how faithful must we be to the Bible? The answer should be nothing less than a total, complete adherence to every word of it. Our understanding and application of the Bible orders our system of church government, the way we worship, the hymns we sing, what is taught in Sunday School, the form and substance of our fellowship groups. The Bible is the very Word of God and so we must be faithful to it, as much as God is faithful to us.
Thought: In your church and personal walk with Christ, is there heavy reliance on books written by famous preachers, theologians or charismatic or popular leaders, over the Bible?
Prayer: “That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” (2 Timothy 3:17)