The Special of the Day… From the Orange Moon Cafe…
"Paper and Ink, Spirit and Truth"
On first glance, the Bible appears to be like any other book, composed of paper, ink, and perhaps leather or some other sturdy cover material. In the most basic sense, we also read it as we do other documents, seeking to assimilate words and their meaning into our minds. Indeed, we can peruse the Scriptures in mere academic or informational terms, learning important facts, but without experiencing significant spiritual and moral impact.
Conversely, we can approach the Bible by faith, believing it to be what it is, the very Word of God.
"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness" (II Timothy 3:16).
We can also realize that to the trusting heart in Christ, the Holy Spirit speaks through Scripture to constitute our reading, pondering, and response in terms of inspiration no less than information. As the saying goes, the Bible exists as the only book that comes with its author. "I will pour out My Spirit unto you, I will make known My words unto you" (Proverbs 1:23). Such awareness transforms the Bible into substance infinitely beyond paper, ink, leather, and information. Through the Holy Spirit, reading ushers us into reality as the pages of Scripture become open portals through which the living God shines upon and within us. "In Thy light shall we see light" (Psalm 36:9).
It is possible for even committed believers to read the Bible as if we are merely reading. It often seems or feel this way. However, to the humble, trusting heart, something far more takes place before an open Bible. The Lord who ever dwells nearer to us than our next breath somehow draws even closer. We may or may not realize this special dispensation of His living presence. Nor do we always realize how He impacts our hearts and lives on each occasion of our reading. We can, however, be sure that things happen of eternal value and significance when we place our hearts and minds before the light of God's Word. How could it be otherwise? Words formed in eternity found their way onto pages of time without losing their power to change us forevermore. "Sanctify them through Thy truth; Thy Word is truth" (John 17:17).
Paper and ink make possible our journey into Spirit and Truth. Like every other book in many ways, the Bible nevertheless transcends all other objects in the world because it so personally and powerfully presents its sublime Subject to our hearts. In these times when enemies violently reject its light, and when even seeming friends question its singular place and validity, we must realize the gift of grace God gives to all who approach Scripture in the realization that He awaits us there as we read, and as reading becomes something more, so very much more.
"I rejoice at Thy word, as one that findeth great spoil."
(Psalm 119:62)
"Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and Thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by Thy name, O LORD God of hosts."
(Jeremiah 15:16)
Weekly Memory Verse
Because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying Abba Father.
(Galatians 4:6).
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