A few days ago, I went to bed preoccupied. My mind was focused on an issue that I thought had been resolved. Yet, there it was rearing its head … again. My insides began churning as I felt overwhelmed with frustration and anxiety. I found myself having great difficulty falling asleep. After just a few hours of lying there, I arose with the same thoughts heavily weighing on my mind. My head hurt and I was just plain ol’ tired. 

As I sat down to read the Bible that morning, I was in Isaiah chapter 26 when suddenly coming across verse 3. It read, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” I can’t even begin to tell you how that verse just brought calm to my racing thoughts. It was exactly what I needed to be reminded of that very moment. The living Word of God renewed my mind. It empowered me to walk with my head held up high because I knew that God was with me and I trusted that He would help me.

Reading the Bible is way more than a box we check off on our to-do list. Psalm 119:105 states, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” God’s Word literally illuminates everything which appears to be dark … whether we are struggling with fear or anxiety or we are seeking counsel or direction for a decision or we are looking to grow spiritually and need clarity to the confusion we are experiencing. Like a flashlight, it helps us to see where we’re going and prevents us from falling.

I pray that as you sit down to read the Bible, you ask the question “What are You saying to me, Lord?” Believe it or not, His Word has a take away for us each time if we are still to hear from Him. It could be a new insight or revelation. It can be a reminder or a word of encouragement. It could also be a challenging word of correction.

“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12)

“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

I am reminded of the once-familiar song “Thy Word”. Those words were echoed from my lips for years as a reminder of the power of God’s Word. I hope it blesses you today.
~Joyce