Good day
In the previous message I mentioned that there are various components to how we successfully develop our relationship with God, whether it's through reading the Bible, attending church, attending small groups, reading Christian books, watching Christian teachings, having Christian friends, engaging in private times of praise and worship, prayer, etc. That all of these help to cultivate that relationship. I then mentioned some practical steps we can take to help bring focus/priority to some of these areas.
Today I'd like to start off with reading the Bible.
The Bible holds great significance because it speaks of God's covenant with mankind. It reveals God's intention for His creation, what He expects of us and also the eternal life that awaits us. It's where we're made aware of God's love towards us (1 John 4:8). It communicates God's plan of redemption for mankind (Colossians 1:13-23). Where we find out about our eternal salvation because of what Jesus Christ did for us when He died on the cross and rose again (John 5:39-40). It's where we come to know the covenant promises that are available to us as His children that are freely received by faith (Romans 10:17).
For the Christian, the believer, the disciple of Jesus Christ - the Bible is the word of God. It's our source of truth. It's our standard / benchmark and foundation when evaluating other opinions or perspectives. It tells us who we are, what we can do and what's available to us in Christ. It gives us direction, wisdom and discernment. It teaches us what true success in life looks like. It's profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and discipline in obedience, [and] for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God’s will in thought, purpose, and action), so that we may be complete and proficient, well fitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17) (John 8:32, John 17:17, Ephesians 4:13–14, 2 Timothy 2:15, Matthew 4:4, Hebrews 4:12, Romans 12:2, Psalm 119:105, 1 Peter 2.2, Joshua 1:8)
Based on everything just said, it's clear that reading the Bible is fundamental to developing intimacy with God.
Amen
I would also encourage you to read the following article where it speaks about 5 reasons why the Bible is the most important book on Earth: https://members.ptl.org/alive/whyscripture.php