As we begin a new year, it is important to think through the priorities of your life.
It is easy to be ruled by “the tyranny of the immediate,” but a careful attention must be given to the things that are most important.
Christians know the value and necessity of the Word of God. We understand that God is transforming us into the image of Christ through the ministry of the Holy Spirit and the Word. Scripture admonishes us,
“Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God” (Colossians 3:16).
It is important for the Holy Spirit to impress His truth upon our hearts – even giving us the strength and power to understand. And then, the inner working of the heart plays out in life.
“And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father” (Colossians 3:17).
First the heart, then the life.
First the inside, then the outside. All of this is depends upon the ministry of the Holy Spirit. And the way we place ourselves in the way of this divine ministry is to hear, read, memorize and pray the Word of God. God promises to work with power through the revealed Word of God.
Let us therefore be reminded of the importance of reading the Bible every day in our lives.
Bible reading plans are available or you can make your own plan – but make it your priority to read and pray every day. And then, hearing the Word of God at church should also be a priority. The ministry of Sunday School, the morning and evening worship services, and the midweek local group meetings all present the opportunity to place yourself before God’s truth. It is vital to make use of every means to stand before God by faith and hear someone accurately declare, “Thus says the Lord!”
God’s Word plus God’s power will transform your life day by day.
Let us be praying for one another as we determine to know more of Christ, more of God, and more of His Word. This is the way of blessing in our lives – and the means of blessing in the church as well. May this year be a time of great spiritual blessing as we embrace God’s Word by faith and live for Him!