We live in hectic times.
We also live in an age where we expect everything instantly.
Our smartphones provide “on-demand” experiences and instant purchase power.
Most smartphone users have downloaded between 60 and 90 apps on their phones.
We have options. Right?
Our smartphones also provide multiple distractions at our fingertips. Despite our overuse of our phones, our apps and our busy schedule, reading the Bible has remained steady over the last decade. Amazing.
A survey showed that 23% of U.S. adults reported spending one hour or more with the Bible in each sitting in 2017, compared to 24% four years earlier.
Amazing Statistics on the Bible
It is shocking that the Bible remains a significant part of the spiritual heritage in America.
Barna Research reported:
More than half of monthly Bible users report that reading the Bible has resulted in a self-perceived willingness to engage in their faith more (56%) and to show more loving behavior toward others (54%). Two out of five Bible users (42%) say they are more generous with their time, energy or financial resources. More than half of Bible users (57%) contend that when they use the Bible, they have a greater awareness of how much they need God all of the time. Slightly less than half experience a curiosity to know God better (48%) and consistently experience a sense of connection with God (47%).
We cannot help but recognize the divine impetus that results from reading the Scriptures.
Why should we read the Bible?
The Bible is not an ordinary book. The Scriptures are God-inspired.
God placed His Spirit on people to write His Word. This means that God is the composer of the Bible.
“For no prophecy at any time was produced by the will of man, but holy men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke from God” (2 Pet. 1:21).
God’s Word Is On Point
His Word divides our soul and spirit, just like a surgeon divides the marrow from bones. This symbolizes spiritual surgery for both our hearts and souls.
“For the word of God is alive, and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intents of the heart” (Heb. 4:12).
God talks to us through His Word. Prayer is how we talk to God, but when we read God’s Word, He talks to us.
Maybe you don’t believe that. Just try it. The Scriptures speak to our hearts and our spirits.
“My son, keep your father’s commandment, and do not forsake the instruction of your mother. Bind them continually upon your heart, and tie them around your neck. When you go, they will lead you; when you sleep, they will keep you; and when you awake, they will speak with you” (Prov. 6:20-22).
Notice keep your Father’s command and obey your mother. And notice, when you awake, they will speak to you.
Maybe you are not a person of faith. Could it be you have never heard God’s Word? Faith comes when you hear God’s Word.
“So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Rom. 10:17).
Reading God’s Word has drawn many into a faith relationship with God.
The Bible also provides spiritual sustenance to our Spirit.
“As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that by it you may grow” (1 Pet. 2:2).
New Christians are Like Newborn Babies
They need nourishment to grow. And yes, reading God’s Word is the food for both young and mature Christians.
Our spirit cannot grow without food. God’s Word is the food.
Listening to sermons, attending Bible studies and reading books are positive but can never replace the need to personally feed yourself on the Word of God.
We cannot maximize our spiritual health without feeding on the Scriptures.
“Your words were found and I ate them. And Your word became to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart” (Jer. 15:16a).
Are you hungry? Grab your Bible. {eoa}
Thomas McDaniels is a pastor/writer and the guy behind thomasmcdaniels.com. He has written for ChurchLeaders.com and currently is a contributing writer for Fox News. He is also the founder of LifeBridge.tv and the Longview Dream Center in Longview, Texas. Thomas can be found on social media, Instagram and Twitter.
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