God is aware of every frustration, trial, loss, worry, and heartache we face. The Bible clearly states we will have trouble in this life (Jn. 16:33). Thankfully, God also assures us that with His strength, we can endure every challenge set before us. This is a great comfort.
“We go to God when we have no joy in ourselves and find that His joy is our strength.” ~Oswald Chambers
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)
Besides the supernatural power of God that empowers us, we also have His living Word to comfort us. This book, so carefully transcribed by men of God, is alive.
“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12 (NKJV)
Unbelievers will surely raise their eyebrows if we say the Bible is living and active, but neglect to expound on this reality. Like most living things, it wants to be known. The Word is living in the sense that God moves it to work in our lives. When we come upon beautiful passages or a scripture that speaks directly to our heart, we can love them because God is speaking through them. The comfort, instruction and help originate and flows from God.
“For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.” Romans 15:4 (NKJV)
Like any personal relationship, the bond of friendship matures over time. The degree of intimacy deepens when we listen, spend time together, and strive to know what pleases and displeases each other. The Word draws us to verses that are perfect for our day. As a lover thinks about his true love with eager longing, we will find ourselves eagerly longing to be within the pages of the living Word.
“The Bible is not an end in itself, but a means to bring men to an intimate and satisfying knowledge of God.”    ~ A.W. Tozer
As we meditate on the truths within the Bible, they will find their way into our day with helps, encouragement, answers, and guidance. Reading the Bible is not a one-way study from person to object. An object does not breathe and all Scripture is God-breathed.
“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 Timothy 3:16-17 (NKJV)
“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)
We would do well to consider the Bible more than an instruction manual to dissect and analyze. Like a person, it is not something we can completely understand. For who can comprehend the mind of God? (Ro. 11:34). His ways are so much higher than our own intellect, but we can trust His good intentions for us and that His love is beyond compare.
Do you consider your Bible a dear friend? Do you see it as a living friend who offers wise and honest counsel? The reality is this: The Word of God is the kind of friend who is always waiting for fellowship time. This friend should not be manipulated and twisted to meet our desires and hopes. Rather, the living Word should be respected, honored, and cherished for the love and faithfulness it provides.
Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'” Matthew 4:4 (NIV)                                                      
The Bible that’s falling apart usually belongs to someone who isn’t.” ~ Charles Spurgeon
“Many mountains around us are falling. How glad I am to have the Bible, that book full of heavenly certainties that cannot be removed.” ~ Corrie ten Boom
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