10 reasons to read the Bible
Why read the Bible? Why wake up 15 minutes early each day? Why go to all that trouble? After all, sleeping is better than reading, right?
Before you close the book on God’s book, here are 10 reasons to read the Bible:
1. Reading the Bible shows us God’s character. The Bible is our definitive source for the answers to our questions about God.
“In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe. The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven” (Hebrews 1:1-3).
2. Reading the Bible teaches us to imitate God.
“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children” (Ephesians 5:1).
3. Reading the Bible helps us discover our next step.
“Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path” (Psalm 119:105).
4. Reading the Bible keeps us from sin.
“I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you” (Psalm 119:11).
5. Reading the Bible helps us to renew our minds so we can know God’s will.
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will” (Romans 12:1-2).
6. Reading the Bible allows us to be certain of what God said. The Bible is our final authority.
“Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth” (John 17:17).
7. Reading the Bible allows us to receive the desires of our heart.
“If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you” (John 15:7).
8. Reading the Bible is how we learn about the gospel.
“You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life” John 5:39-40.
9. Reading the Bible gives us courage.
“Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:8-9).
10. Reading the Bible helps us to be fruitful.
“... but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither — whatever they do prospers” (Psalm 1:2-3).