It’s easy to sometimes feel like reading the Bible is just another thing to check off on your morning routine. But reading the Bible is so much more than that. The Bible is often referred to as a sword, and we know God’s Word is a weapon that helps us fight lies with truth.
The Bible reminds us who God is, which helps remind us who we are, since we were created in God’s image. When we read it, we experience God’s presence, and we see examples of His faithfulness time and time again. It encourages us, strengthens us, and renews us.
Memorizing Scripture and repeating it often can actually rewire our brains to replace toxic lies with transformative truth. It can help us cultivate the mind of Christ, and it helps us discern what to do when decisions come up. It gives us wisdom, which is something we desperately need in a world filled with too much information.
But we don’t just read the Bible. We need to live out the words of the Bible in our ordinary, everyday lives. We don’t just read it to gain knowledge for ourselves. We read it to radically shape how we live out God’s love in the world. Check out what James, the brother of Jesus, wrote about that:
So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls. But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. James 1:21-22 NLT
God’s Word is powerful! But we can’t just read it without living it. Reading Scripture makes it significantly harder to ignore injustices we see. Reading the Bible inspires us to love others, to serve others, to speak up for and on behalf of others, and so much more. God’s Word is meant to be planted in our hearts so that we can put it into action in real life.
Don’t go another day just reading about the love of Jesus. Use Scripture as a prompt to go show others the love of Jesus.
Reflect:
- When is the last time reading something in God’s Word inspired you to take action in your life?
- What are some ways you can act on what you read today?
Study Further:
“For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.”
Hebrews 4:12 NLT
“A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armor so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.”
Ephesians 6:10-18 NLT
“Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”
Romans 12:2 NLT
“So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls. But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it.”
James 1:21-25 NLT
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed. Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice.”
Proverbs 31:8-9 NLT
“How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word. I have tried hard to find you— don’t let me wander from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. I praise you, O Lord; teach me your decrees. I have recited aloud all the regulations you have given us. I have rejoiced in your laws as much as in riches. I will study your commandments and reflect on your ways. I will delight in your decrees and not forget your word.”
Psalms 119:9-16 NLT
