Why Read the Bible?

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Last week my son was sitting reading his Bible when I came into his room. He loves reading, so will usually read all kinds of different books.

He said to me, “Do you know why I’m reading my Bible?” and I said, “No, why?” He replied, “Because it’s true and I like true stories, and it’s history.”

I thought that was really cool, because he has loads of fiction books, but has realised the value of true stories. I always like to watch films that are based on a true story because you are watching and learning from something that really happened. The Bible is true, so it contains lots of historical true stories.

I then went on to tell him three more reasons to read the Bible from Scripture – I am sure there are more than these, but these are the verses that came to my mind when I was talking to him!

It makes you successful 

 This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Joshua 1:8 

This doesn’t necessarily mean material success – it might mean spiritual success and would play out in different ways for different people, but it is definitely a promise we should take note of!

It makes you fruitful 

Blessed is the man 
Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, 
Nor stands in the path of sinners, 
Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;
But his delight is in the law of the Lord, 
And in His law he meditates day and night.
He shall be like a tree 
Planted by the rivers of water, 
That brings forth its fruit in its season, 
Whose leaf also shall not wither; 
And whatever he does shall prosper. 
Psalm 1:1-3

 Again this does not necessarily mean prosperity and fruitfulness in terms of finance and material things, though it may for some people. But we will bear fruit and be blessed if we are meditating on and delighting in God’s Word.

It equips you for ministry 

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy3 :16,17

Scripture makes us complete – it teaches us, corrects us, and shows us the right way to go. And it gives us what we need to be thoroughly equipped for good works.

So there’s lots of reasons to read the Bible! And God is faithful and will carry out what He has promised.

If you want to know more about reading it or studying it you can check out the links below if you like.

10 Tips for Devotional Times
Bible Reading Plans
What the Bible Means to Me – Review
Great Books on How to Study the Bible

Part of ‘Growing Tips’ on Thursdays

Linking up to Faith Filled Friday

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4 Responses

  1. tanya marlow says:
    21 September, 2012 at 10:40 am

    How lovely to see you via Laura Krokos’ site! I am also in the UK, and also married to a pastor (vicar)! I find it so encouraging that your boy is so excited by the Bible -and also that you were able to just think of those encouraging verses off the top of your head as reasons to read. Hope to keep in touch 🙂

  2. Rhoda says:
    21 September, 2012 at 8:14 pm

    Hi Tanya, it is great to meet someone else from the UK, and your blog looks really good too! Yes my son loves the Bible which is wonderful 🙂

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