The more we read and understand the Bible, the more intimately we can get to know the Author...and isn't that what we all seek in the end?
Do you ever feel like you could use an instruction manual for life, or at least some of the things you have to deal with? A manual on how to be a good parent, grandparent, sister or brother, co-worker, friend, on how to deal with
stress, uncertainty,
pain, loss...the list goes on. I believe that God gave us that very manual - the Bible - and that it is a guide for us today just like it has been for centuries.
I've been asked or told some of the following when I've tried to explain my "genre" of books - suspense novels that "re-imagine" Bible stories: "No offense but I don't want to read anything religious"; "Your books will never sell because they aren't exactly typical Christian fiction and they're not racy enough to become bestsellers"; and even, "Why don't you write something else more marketable like '50 Shades of Grey'?" Believe me, I have tried, like Jonah, to run from this calling of mine. I never asked for this. I tried to write more mainstream fiction - but God had another plan, calling me to write on Job, then Abigail, then Jonah, and now Cain and Abel. It forced me to read the Bible. And I truly fell in love with reading it, beginning to end, and found answers in it that deepened my faith.
Sometimes we have to just do the work God directs us to do or puts on our hearts and let go of the outcome. Amazing things have happened for me as a result, blessings and rewards despite my resistance. If you've never read the Bible, or haven't read it in a long time, maybe it's time to try picking it up...opening it to a random page or looking up a topic that's on your mind. Trust me, it's
all in there. I think it helps when you pray and meditate to find a passage to focus on, and a message to remember in times of need. I have a few favorites I wanted to share (There are so many more but only so much space! And please send your favorites back to me!):
"
For I can do all things through Him who strengthens me."
Phil. 4:13
"
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
- Romans 8:28
"(Jesus said) I
am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."
- John 14:6
I pray that when we are at our lowest points, we can recall passages from the Bible to help us see the light and be the people God calls us to be...and that we continue to live our best lives through His Word.
