How Scripture Changes Us
Believers are frequently instructed to read the Bible, yet are often left without an explanation as to how studying Scripture changes us. A close look reveals numerous benefits to regular time invested in God’s Word.
Scripture Encourages Us
Scripture often encourages us when we are discouraged. For example, the reason Psalm 23 is traditionally read at funerals is because of the hope it provides: “Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil” (v. 4).
Many other verses encourage us through the lives of God’s people who have overcome struggles in living for the Lord. For example, Abraham and Sarah were blessed with a son after many years of waiting. Moses led the Jewish people out of slavery following years of loneliness in the wilderness.
The New Testament offers the examples of Jesus and His early followers, many of whom endured much persecution to live out their convictions. Their faithful endurance offers examples inspiring for us in our daily journey.
Scripture Instructs Us
As believers, we need both encouragement and growth. The Bible is a big book! In fact, it’s 66 books of history, law, poetry, prophecy, and more. Much of the Bible is unknown among today’s generation, with record-low numbers of Americans holding a biblical worldview.
When we read the teachings of the Bible, we better understand God as creator, Jesus as redeemer, the Spirit as advocate, and much more. We find comfort in the Lord’s sovereign plans through challenging times and His ultimate redemption for those who will live with Him in eternity. Learning what Scripture teaches offers hope both now and for eternity.
Scripture Corrects Us
In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Paul taught Timothy, “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.” Scripture shows us what is right as well as when we are wrong.
Another example is found in the temptation of Jesus in Matthew 4 and Luke 4. In response to three temptations from Satan, Jesus responded with Scripture. This example reveals that the proper use of God’s Word can help us better overcome temptations we face in our own lives.
Psalm 119, the longest chapter in the Bible, also focuses on the importance of Scripture in correction. For example, verse 9 notes, ” How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word.” Verse 105 adds, ” Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.”
As we grow in our understanding of Scripture, we discover ways we can change our lives to better follow God. The use of our time, our abilities, resources, and relationships are continually refined as we learn and apply the Bible’s teachings to our lives.
Scripture Prepares Us
Ephesians 2:10 shares, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” God did not save us to sit; He saved us to serve.
When we grow in our study of Scripture, we find ways to better live out the good works God has designed for us. These works included helping those inside and outside of the church toward spiritual maturity. Galatians 6:10 notes, “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”
We often fail to follow through on healthy practices in life when we cannot see how it helps us in our daily lives. A close look at some of the way Scripture changes us can motivate us to better focus on its words—and apply them—in our lives today.
Whole heartedly agree! Great post! Thank you for the reminder of the benefits of God’s word. Ps. 119:105