When someone asks me the key to continual growth and spiritual maturity in the Christian life, it doesn’t take a milli-second to answer: It is the daily practice of meeting with God every morning through His Word and prayer. George Mueller, the great man of God of the last century, diligently observed this practice every morning until he got himself “Happy in the Lord.” Only then did he feel he was ready to meet the day. His rich life—governed and led by God’s Word and Spirit--will continue to impact us till the end of time and beyond.
God has designed us so that we all are driven to what we think is valuable. If power, reputation, or some pleasure are most important to you, that’s what you will pursue. But, if knowing Christ and experiencing Him is your highest value, you will pay any price to gain this each day. And the man who makes this choice has found the pearl of great price and the treasure hidden in the field. It is the key to everything. Paul said that he counted all things as rubbish in comparison to the surpassing value of knowing and experiencing Christ (Philippians 3:8).
This is why God keeps reminding us of the value of hearing and experiencing God through His Word. One of the most profound summaries of its worth is found in five glorious verses in Psalm 19:7-11. Notice the order of these truths and meditate on the meaning of each of these phrases.
WHAT GOD’S WORD IS IT’S NATURE IT’S VALUE (what it does)
The law of the LORD is perfect, restoring the soul;
The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.
The precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart;
The commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.
The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever;
The judgments of the LORD are true; they are righteous altogether.
(and two final verses, summarizing its value)
They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold;
Sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb.
Moreover, by them Your servant is warned;
In keeping them there is great reward.
Read these God-breathed statements again and again and again. Let it expand your soul as you embrace God's all-encompassing, all-sufficient Word. Bow before the Lord in gratitude that He has disclosed Himself to us through the Scriptures. We can hold it in our hands and learn from Him every day! And thank God that He has made Himself so accessible through His world and Word.
And finally … don’t miss a single day meeting with Him each morning. Make it your highest priority and greatest appointment. Over the years, the cumulative power of His Word will renew your mind and transform your life!
*(For further thoughts on the Word's value, read “21 REASONS WHY I LOVE TO READ MY BIBLE EVERY DAY on this site)
