“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 NIV
The Gift
Many years ago (before smart phones and Bible apps) I was getting ready to go on vacation and was trying to decide what Bible I might buy that would fit in my suitcase and not take up too much room, when a dear friend presented me with a beautiful, leather-bound, slim style Bible that she said would be perfect for traveling. It quickly became my favorite Bible. Even though I sometimes use a Bible app, I am old school even today—I still study God’s Word out of a Bible I can hold in my hands, turn the pages, and write notes in.
Years later, many travels later, many Bible studies and church services have passed and I had to “retire” this precious book to my home office. I like to say it has been so loved and poured over that it is now in a very delicate state. It still brings me such joy when I take it down from the bookshelf and open it. It just feels so right in my hands.
“Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him” (Proverbs 30:5).
It seems every page has something underlined, highlighted, or a written note. There are also verses that have a date and name by them, where I was praying for someone.
“He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your ancestors had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every WORD that comes from the mouth of the LORD” (Deuteronomy 8:3 NIV).
The years I used this special Bible, I learned so much about God; He did teach me, correct me, equip me, and give me a hunger for His Word. I am so grateful! I think of my dear friend each time I pick up this special gift and give thanks for her.
Lord God, thank You for your Word. I pray you will continue to teach me, opening my eyes and heart to what You have for me each day, Amen.
Amen!
I love reading “All scripture is GOD-BREATHED.” How ever so lovely!
Thank you for sharing.
These scriptures fed my spirit to weeping. I’m overwhelmed with the love God’s Word covers us in. I’m so thankful for relationship.
I’m remembering when reading my Bible didn’t make much sense at all. Now, I can’t imagine how I lived my life without my daily fill of the life altering guidance of the WORD.
Revelations 4:8
“Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, Who was and is and is to come!”
Hallelujah! AMEN!
I understand how you feel about your retired precious bible. I feel the same with my 29 year old bible which has become a faith journal of my walk with the Lord. It is underlined, highlighted, filled with written notes, cross references, and stained from tears dropping on its pages. I know it so well. It has become my friend, my anchor and my life this side of heaven.