On the Record
The Impact of Scripture
Learning and Living the Word of God
Larry Moore | President
How often have you faced an issue with no easy or obvious solution? I suppose we have all had that happen at some point. We pray and ask for God’s guidance. We seek a clear answer that will help us move forward in resolving the problem. But sometimes we struggle to understand as the problem appears to grow bigger. Maybe you are facing an insurmountable problem right now and could use a word from God. In my own life, I have certainly had this experience. I can remember one specific time when I was facing a very troubling issue. I took the time and intentionally searched the Bible for some answers. God is so good. He gave a clear and concise answer and that has become my favorite “go to” text. I have also given this text to many people facing a variety of situations. Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” That text assures me of God’s presence in my life and that He will help me through life’s challenges. I can’t tell you how much this scripture means to me personally. It is a promise, so claim it often. I pray that you will be blessed as you hear God speak to you.
Reading and studying God’s Word assures me that the scriptures are joy-giving. Psalm 94:19 says, “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.” God’s divine principles set a right path through the maze of life and cause our hearts to rejoice. One of my favorite psalms is Psalm 19. It reminds me that God’s Word can convert the soul and allow the Spirit of God to transform it. It makes a person wise and it brings joy to the anxious heart. As the enemy attempts to separate us from God, it is imperative that we heed the counsel of the Apostle Paul to “put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes (the stresses and uncertainties of life that are the root of our anxieties), we will be able to stand our ground against all that may perplex us,” (Psalm 19:13). A vital part of that armor that Paul speaks of is, “the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God,” (Psalm 19:17). There is no greater joy than living in conformity to God’s Word. When doing the things that God created you to do in His Word, your life will begin to overflow with unprecedented joy. Develop the habit of a deeper study of God’s Word and experience the joy it brings to you.
Buford Griffith, Jr. Executive Secretary
To me the Bible is a roadmap for my life. God’s Word is so many things to me. It provides daily lessons into the character of God. There is so much of God’s character that I don’t understand, but as I read the Bible, His character is revealed to me. His grace, mercy, love, and correction become clearer. The Bible teaches me how to live and share His love; it also helps me prioritize my life. My favorite books are the gospels in the New Testament. I’m inspired when I read of Jesus’ love and power, but also the way He treated people that He encountered on a daily basis. When I’m studying the Bible, the important thing I try to keep in mind is not only understanding the story, but how I can apply what I’m reading to my life. God has used His scriptures to help me solve a problem in my life on countless occasions. I have also found that my personal Bible study can be a blessing to others as well. Throughout the day in conversations with others, I’ve often found myself in a position to share an applicable note about the exact lesson or topic that I’ve been studying with someone working through their own issue. Take time today to read God’s word: Psalm 34:8, “Taste and see that the Lord is good.” John Page | Treasurer
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