The Counseling Corner
By Rev. Judith T. Lester, B.Min. M.Th
Wikipedia® defines New Year’s Resolution as a tradition in which a person resolves to change an undesired trait or behavior to accomplish a personal goal or otherwise improve their life. If you yearn for a closer relationship with God and you want to tap into and experience the transforming power of God’s Word, then allow me to suggest that becoming more disciplined in Bible study and reading is a worthwhile New Year’s Resolution. We will start this year with articles encouraging you to begin your New Year by nurturing your soul by engaging in regular Bible study and reading God’s Word.
The Bible is God’s Word to us and when we read it, God will speak through His Word to us. Many Christians, though, have abandoned daily Bible study/reading.
Canadian Christian theologian, J. I. Packer once remarked: “If I were the devil, one of my first aims would be to stop folk from digging into the Bible.” Satan is threatened by believers who are well versed in the Scriptures, who trust God and who firmly stand on the promises of God. When you nurture your soul through daily Bible study, it is your best weapon against Satan.
On that note, this month’s series will first address the question ‘What Makes the Bible So Special,’ and then briefly examine biblical inspiration. This series will conclude by describing the benefits of daily studying God’s Word.
What makes the Bible so special?
For starters, the entire Bible is inspired by God. It is a depository of heavenly instruction containing God’s revelation of Himself and His will to humankind.
The Bible also is essentially a basis of moral government, and as a definite and final test of moral conduct.
Moreover, the Bible gives us a correct idea of sin and its penalties, information as to the plan of salvation, and as to the final destiny of the soul.
Finally, the Bible is special because it describes God’s dealings with the ancient Jewish people and the early Christian church. It tells us about the great gift of God’s Son, Jesus Christ, who fulfilled Jewish prophecies of the Messiah. It tells us about the salvation Jesus accomplished through His death on the Cross, His triumph over death in the resurrection, and His promised return to earth. It is the only book that gives us reliable information about the future, about what will happen to us when we die, and practical wisdom for life here on earth.
Beloved, indeed you are responsible for your own spiritual journey; but allow me to suggest that reading and studying God’s Word will transform your life, and renew your mind and heart like no other spiritual activity on this earth! You are encouraged to read the Bible and start your New Year renewed as you seek God’s will for your life! Young people should also be encouraged to read and study the Bible. For the young people in your life, not only tell them why they should read the Bible, but also lead them in how they should read the Bible. As youth and young adults get engaged with the Bible, they too will develop a personal and growing relationship with God.
A resource available for youth and young adults is my recently published book, A Gospel Generation: Bible Study Lessons for Youth Around the Globe. It is a 30-week interactive bible lesson perfect for small groups or individual study. You can order a copy at: www.sspbnbc.com.
Next Week: Continuation
General Disclaimer: The writer has used her best efforts in preparation of this information. No representations or warranties for its contents, either expressed or implied, are offered. Neither the publisher nor the writer shall be liable in any way for readers’ efforts to apply, rely or utilize the information or recommendations presented herein as they may not be suitable for you or necessarily appropriate for every situation to which they may refer. This information is for educational purposes only. If you would like to contact Rev. Lester, write to her c/o P.O. Box 121, Brookfield, WI. 53008.
