Enjoying the Bible and applying it to all of life

In my recent post on re-launching Bible Studies for Life we saw how important the Bible is to how we live. We study the Bible, not merely for information but for transformation. We want to be informed and transformed.

We Want the Bible to Meet Life

What, exactly, does that mean?

One of the basic struggles we have as believers is the temptation to compartmentalize our lives into sacred and secular. That is, we think of church, Bible study, and ministry as the important parts of life—the Jesus compartment. But, often, when we hit the weekday head on, we are in the secular compartment and Jesus is left far behind.

We’ve often heard people express things like, “I can’t believe you’re saying that in church.” In the old days you might have heard, “Don’t be running in God’s house!” Unfortunately, many of these same people would have little problem with telling dirty jokes at work, swearing during a football game, or heaping verbal abuse on his or her spouse, child, or friend.

For people living these kinds of divided lives, all manner of sin—greed, hatred, covetousness, gossip, injustice—can pass as long as it stays, to their way of thinking, separate from the religious part of life. It is a game many people try to play while claiming to follow Christ.

The main problem with this approach is the Bible does not leave such an existence open to followers of Christ. When we come to Christ all of life is transformed, even if not all at the same time.

A Path That is Lit

One Psalm records, “Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light to my path” (119:105). The path indicates movement, direction, and travel. It indicates illumination so that life is not blanketed in darkness. This light comes from God’s word. It is for all of this journey we call “life.”

Jesus’ most harsh criticisms during his earthly ministry were reserved for the religious people who supposedly knew what God’s Word said. One thing Jesus criticized was their tendency to keep part of God’s Word while ignoring other parts. They wanted to live life in compartments, some compartments where God was welcome and others where He was not.

This is opposed to how God wants us to live. If we are to be wholly redeemed and restored then every facet of life has to be affected. This is where God’s Word comes into play.

As Sweet as Honey

An Old Testament metaphor demonstrates that God’s Word is sweet like honey. That means it is pleasant and enjoyable. When we spend time in God’s Word, having His heart and His will revealed to us, it is sweet indeed! Can you remember a time when you were reading or studying your Bible when, without warning, it was as if every Word had been penned just for you? That a particular need in your life or questions you had were suddenly addressed with the power of God Himself through His Word?

Is God’s Word during those times not sweet like honey? Are our hearts not stirred, drawn to Him and made hungry for another serving? They are. And in the hunger and thirst after righteousness we will be filled.

As a Sweeping Light

This is one reason we should not try to hold back any part of life from the sweeping light of God’s Word. Throw open all the doors and cabinets and let the light of the Word reveal all.

Like a Sword

A New Testament metaphor teaches us that God’s Word is like a sword. It is living and powerful. Like a flaming Excalibur it is able to expose our thoughts and intents so we do not deceive ourselves. It opens us to the truth, the truth that brings us back in line with God’s will for us.

Focus

Focusing on God’s Word is a reason I am excited to be involved with Bible Studies for Life. The Bible changes our lives, as we experience God’s fullness through it.