Devotionals

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TEN FAVORITE BIBLE QUOTES


Certain texts seem to especially resonate in my thinking. As I would assume is true of other persons. Thus are we invited to share as a means of edification.
(1) “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). Herein lies the essence of the Christian faith. All that remains amounts to commentary.
(2) “Those who honor me I will honor” (1 Sam. 2:30). Accordingly, we are reminded that our chief purpose is to glorify God. In this regard, it is not necessarily the flagrant evil but the lesser good that inhibits the greater good.
(3) “My grace is sufficient for you,” (2 Cor. 12:9). This, in turn, recalls the lyrics of John Newton’s memorable hymn: “Amazing grace! How sweet the sound—that saved a wretch like me! I once was lost but now am found, was blind but now I see.”
(4) “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want” (Psa. 23:1). The setting of the psalm appears to be the Judean hill country, noted for its deep ravines and difficult travel. “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.”
(5) “Whoever comes to me I will never drive away” (John 6:37). It was with this in mind that I embraced Jesus’ promises. This was virtually a lifetime ago, and I have not regretted doing so.
(6) “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Rom. 8:28). Assuredly not that all things are desirable in themselves, but can serve a constructive purpose in the divine economy.
(7) “Blessed is the man (whose) delight is in the law of the Lord. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither” (Psa. 1:1-3). Such not only bear fruit but resist drought.
(8) “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8). So that the great commission is cultivated in familiar surroundings, before taking on the rigorous task of extended outreach.
(9) “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Matt. 20:26, 28). Accordingly, Jesus sets the precedent for service.
(10) “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus” (Rev. 22:21). As if to confirm that we are less driven by the past than drawn by the future.
All things considered, I am reminded of the satirical comment: “When all else fails, read the instructions.” In this instance, as pertains to Scripture. Concerning which, it is said: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is profitable for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:16).
Which, in turn, invites several brief comments. Initially, divine inspiration extends to Scripture as a whole, and in each particular. As for the former, so that we should interpret it in context. As for the latter, so not to make exceptions to accommodate cultural mores.
Second, to caution against ill-advised behavior, while cultivating a righteous alternative. As would a devoted parent, concerned for the welfare of his or her offspring. Which ought to solicit appreciative obedience.
Finally, so that the man of God may be thoroughly prepared for every good work. If a man of God, then concerned to serve him. If throughly prepared, leaving nothing to chance. If every good work, then as the opportunity affords itself. Indeed!

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