I borrowed this title from A.W. Tozer, but the subject on my heart is somewhat different. I have been reflecting on why we should study our Bible. The title of this post was one of the first things that came to mind. I suppose there are many reasons people study the Word of God, but for me the core reason is to know God. In knowing God we draw near to his heart and consequently become more like Him.
We experience this truth in many practical ways. If you are around the same person long enough you tend to pick up their phrases, habits, traditions, style, etc… The closer we are to someone, the more they rub off on us whether we like it or not. We may not always pick up good habits when it comes to spending time with those we care about. This is not the case when we spend time with God. We have nothing to lose and everything to gain when we seek Him out.
In the study of 1st Peter, I was reminded again of the foundation that was laid for me by those who were obedient to God throughout the Scriptures. In the first chapter Peter tells us,
“As to this salvation, the prophets who prophesied of the grace that would come to you made careful searches and inquiries, seeking to know what person or time the Spirit of Christ within them was indicating as He predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories to follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves, but you, in these things which now have been announced to you through those who preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven—things into which angels long to look.” 1 Peter (1:10-12) NASB
These verses struck a chord in me as I thought of Moses, the friend of God; David, a man after the heart of God; Elijah, Isaiah, and all those who are examples of faithfulness to God. They were not serving themselves but they were serving us. They left home, family, and comfort behind in faith, believing that God would keep His promises. I am certain that if you could interview any of those people right now they would confirm the worthiness of their pursuit.
If these men and women of faith made careful searches and inquiries on my behalf, it seems the least I could do is pay it forward for the next generation. One of the ways to do that is to search the Scriptures and grasp for some understanding of what God is doing in this world so I can take part in it. God does not exist for me but I exist because of Him. This fact alone creates such a longing for the Word in my heart and mind because I want to know more about my Creator. The more I know about the Creator the more I understand my purpose and function in the world. The more I seek Him, the more I will find Him. The more I find Him the more like Him I shall be, because nearness is likeness.
Written and submitted by:
Candace A.
Women’s Tuesday Night Bible Study
