When I think of blessings, what comes to mind is the gift of God’s Word, the Bible.  I can’t imagine life without the benefit of knowing the truth and living it.  Even though we stumble, God encourages us by His Spirit and Word, rather than condemn us.  The Bible has given me knowledge and wisdom for marriage, family, love, relationships, money, forgiveness, leadership, creation, health, exercise, discipline, and so much more.

I don’t tend to think of blessings in terms of materialism, although I’m grateful for those blessings and content with what God has given me.  Blessing is the gift of His Word that  has revealed what God is truly like, how to be born again, and a promised hope and future.

It makes me wonder why some neglect the daily reading of the Bible.  Today, I met a couple who have spent a good part of their young adult years smuggling Bibles into places where it is illegal to have a Bible.  The joy that they described of people who receive a copy of the Bible, encourages me to study even more.

Recently, I was at Starbucks with a man that decided to read the Bible through with me this year.  He is a part of a group that receives an email that I write about one of the chapters we are reading together.  We discussed some of his challenges of keeping up with a Bible reading plan and family, church, job and civic responsibilities.  What I admire about this leader, is his personal commitment to the Scriptures, even though he is very busy.  

I heard John Maxwell say, if you want something done, ask a busy person, he will get it done.

How about you do you take time to read and reflect daily upon the Scriptures?  Do you journal or write down your thoughts about what your reading?  Have you learned to pray back the Scriptures to your heavenly Father.

If you’re interested in the Bible reading group, I mentioned above, send me an email to dennis.clanton@gmail.com and just put in the subject line Subscribe BR and I’ll add you to the list.  Typically, I email two to three times a week, sometimes less. 

Peace!