OPEN GOD’S SPECIAL GIFT TO YOU

BIBLE PASSAGE:
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable 
for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 
(2 Timothy 3:16)

MEDITATION:
I’ve wondered how some people get so much enjoyment in reading books.
I feel like I’m missing out on something since I am not an avid reader.
It’s not that I have an aversion for reading, but too often I can begin 
reading and it’s not long until my mind begins to drift to other things.

I can read a phrase, or sometimes one word, 
and it triggers other thoughts in my mind.
As a result, I reread sections I just read in order to get the content.
It may take me twice as long (or longer) than others to read a book.

However, my focus increases and the distractions decrease depending on the book.
For instance, I can read a book about sports and stay focused the entire time.
And if it is a book about sports connected to faith, 
it is difficult for me to put it down until I have finished the entire book. 

The Bible is another book that I can read without experiencing “mind drift”.
It may be because I feel the importance 
of absorbing and understanding its content.
My attitude toward reading the scriptures has changed over the years.
At one time, outside of John 3:16, it seemed that the bible was filled with ‘thee’,
‘thou’, ‘begat’, etc. – words that were not a part of my every day vocabulary.

But with the advent of new translations 
(which have converted the ‘biblical’ to ‘everyday’ language), 
I have discovered a new enjoyment of reading God’s Word.
(Note: any translations should be compared to the original 
in order to ensure the meanings have not been altered).

We learn in 2 Timothy that the Bible is a book separate from all other books.
It is a gift from God to mankind, and it is for our benefit.
Without His Words, the boundaries for living are blurred 
as each person creates his own individual guidelines.
And when two different guidelines intersect, conflict is inevitable.

We need ONE set of standards that span all generations;
guidelines that are established by the Creator for all His creations.
The Bible is beneficial to mankind in several ways:
- it gives us principles and guidelines for living (doctrine)
- it convicts us whenever we exceed God’s boundaries (reproof)
- it tells us how to ‘get back on track’ whenever we have strayed (correction)
- it tells us how to exchange our carnal life for one of righteousness (instruction)

All of these benefits are given to help us move 
in the direction of God’s own Son, who was perfect in every way. 
that the man of God may be perfect, 
thoroughly furnished unto all good works. (2 Timothy 3:17)

Although His perfection cannot be achieved in this life, 
we will be perfect in every way when we are with Him eternally. 
His Word also teaches us how to do good works; 
works that place more importance on pleasing God, than pleasing self.

ACTION:
Have you been negligent about spending time reading God’s gift?
Why not set aside some time every day for reading a portion of the Bible?
If you need a place to begin, start with 1 John, 2 John and 3 John.
When you read, try focusing on content as opposed to quantity.

I sincerely believe the Lord provides the content for these devotionals 
as a means of helping us to better understand His messages.
Each morning I look forward to what He wants to communicate to us
that particular day (and I get to read them before distributing them!).

Pray,
“Heavenly Father, thank You for Your inspired words to mankind. 
Help me to dedicate more time for reading your gift, and guide me 
in understanding Your messages which are specifically directed 
toward me.”

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