It is not lost on any of us that in our world today people are easily swayed by what others say than what the Bible says. Many of us do not know what God’s word says and therefore believe what we hear. Neither are we like the Bereans who searched the Scriptures for themselves. Unfortunately, we hold more weight on people’s words than on the infallible word of God. (“And the people of Berea were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, and they listened eagerly to Paul’s message. They searched the Scriptures day after day to check up on him and see if what he was saying was true.” Acts 17:11)
As Christians, our lives depend on us reading and obeying God’s Word. “Read Your Bible” and gain purpose and power. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 reminds us, “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.” Paul is telling Timothy that this Word, the Bible, is necessary for teaching, correction, and preparation for living a life that aligns with God’s will.
“Read Your Bible” and grow spiritually. 1 Peter 2:2 says, “Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk so that you will grow into a full experience of salvation. Cry out for this nourishment.” The Apostle Peter is telling us that we should engage with God’s Word because it matures our faith and deepens our relationship with God.
Not reading and obeying God’s Word can lead to a lack of guidance, spiritual immaturity, and vulnerability to deception. Ephesians 4:14 reminds us, “Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won’t be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth.”
When we neglect reading our Bible, we become more susceptible to false teachings, deception, stunted spiritual growth, and a lack of wisdom, all of which can lead to a weakened, compromised, and misguided faith. Therefore, make sure to “Read Your Bible.”