My Old Bible
One of the best habits a person can practice is the regular reading of the Bible.
Scripturally, this often overlooked yet profoundly needed principle is blatantly evident. It is seen throughout Psalm 119, as well as in 2 Timothy 3:16-17, Hebrews 4:12, and 1 Thessalonians 2:13, to name a few.
But I especially like what God said in Joshua 1:8 when he reminded Israel’s new leader, “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” Or how David described the blessed person in Psalm 1—he said that person’s “delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night.”
Anecdotally, this biblical principle was a constant focus of the church in which I grew up. In multiple ways, the atmosphere was always focused on God’s Word, and reading the Bible daily was the normal expectation for every single member. And rightly so! It was a spiritual family where Scripture held a high priority, and I’m deeply grateful for that.
In fact, for a couple of years during my college experience, our new pastor quoted a specific poem about the Bible before every single message. Yes, the same poem every week before every sermon! But it made a difference, because I remember specific lines, as well as the main point, of that poem to this day. I can even now, even while I’m writing this, hear his unique cadence and inflection as I rehearse the stanzas of the poem.
That poem? I thought you’d never ask.
My Old Bible
Though the cover is worn,
And the pages are torn,
And though places bear traces of tears,
Yet more precious than gold
Is this Book worn and old,
That can shatter and scatter my fears.
This old Book is my guide,
’Tis a friend by my side,
It will lighten and brighten my way;
And each promise I find
Soothes and gladdens the mind,
As I read it and heed it each day.
To this Book I will cling,
Of its worth I will sing,
Though great losses and crosses be mine;
For I cannot despair,
Though surrounded by care,
While possessing this blessing Divine.
(Author unknown)
Before your close your eyes in sleep tonight, take intentional time to read your Bible. Feast on God’s Word. Devour the Scriptures. It will be one of the best things you’ll do today that will affect all of your tomorrows.
Pastor Todd