Why bother to read the Bible?
See what you think about these six benefits that come from reading the Bible.
1. It revives my soul. (Ps. 19:7a)
“The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul.”
The word “revive” means to “bring back to life,” or to “give new life to.”
While reading, meditating, studying and listening to the Word of God, your soul is brought new or further life!
2. It makes me wise. (Ps. 19:7b)
“The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple.”
This is wisdom in mind, word, and in actions. To be wise is to know the heart and mind of God concerning a matter.
3. It makes me happy. (Ps. 19: 8a)
“The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart.”
When you take the time to read about the great love God has for you, it changes how you see and feel about your life, the world, and your current situation.
4. It gives me discernment. (Ps. 19: 8b)
“The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes.”
As you read the Bible, the Holy Spirit gives you illumination and insight.
Sometimes your life will be at a crossroads, where the question is not your obedience, but your direction. God’s Word will give your eyes light to see which path is yours.
5. It warns me. (Ps. 19:11a)
“By them is your servant warned…”
A child asked, “If God has a purpose for everything, then why did He create poison oak?” His friend answered, “The reason God made poison oak is to teach you that there are certain things we should keep our cotton-pickin’ hands off of.”
1 Corinthians 10:11 gives the New Testament version:
“These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the culmination of the ages has come.”
6. Obeying it brings great reward. (Ps. 19:11b)
“…in keeping them there is great reward.”
The word “great” means abundant in quantity and quality. As I said in The Bible Questions,
“The purpose of Bible reading is not so you can know more, but so you can grow more.”
Only those who know what the Bible says can follow what the Bible teaches.
Abundant rewards come to those who live out Scripture.
What’s Next?
- Make a list of the rewards you are experiencing from reading the Bible.
- How will you make reading the Bible a daily part of your life?
- Check out The Bible Questions to learn more about the Bible.
Further Reading:
Hal Seed is the founding and Lead Pastor of New Song Community Church in Oceanside, CA. He mentors pastors who want to lead healthy, growing churches with resources at www.pastormentor.com.
Start Here to learn more about the resources available for you at PastorMentor.
Such a beautiful and inspiring post. My daughter is going to school to teach Bible study to youth. I will share this with her, and perhaps, you can indirectly inspire her students, as well. Thank you for sharing.