March 31st was the end of the first quarter of the year. Still remember our goal and commitment to 2020 Global Year of the Bible? How are we doing so far? With one third of the year now behind us, perhaps it’s time to pause and assess our journey so far. Sure it’s a challenging adventure and for some it’s a march forward, and for others a reset. My prayers is that there are no total drop-outs. The purpose of this exhortation is to encourage all of us to reaffirm in unison our goal and commitment to reading the Bible throughout the entire year 2020. Apart from Jesus Christ, there is no other greater revelation that God has given us about Himself than His word – the Bible.
The Psalmist states several benefits which are derived from reading God’s word. The blessing of daily sanctification and purity. “Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord. Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, Who seek Him with the whole heart.” Ps.119:1-2
“How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word.” Ps.119:9. “Thy word I have hidden in my heart , That I might not sin against You.” Ps.119:11. In His High priestly prayer, our Lord prayed thus, “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” Jn.17:17
There is no magic or miracle that can produce or strengthen holy living outside of the word of God. “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf shall not wither, and whatever he does shall prosper.” Ps.1:1-3.
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Tim.3:16-17 For true success in life, the word of God holds the primary position. “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe 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.” Josh.1:8
Even in times of anxiety and stress when life is paralyzed by fear of worldwide Coronavirus Pandemic , the word of God brings stability and assurance. “Great peace have those who love Your law, and nothing causes them to stumble.” Ps.119:165.
Someone likened daily reading of the Bible to dipping a dirty basket or kitchen sieve in a stream. Although it may not hold any water, but it gets cleaner with repetitive dipping. We may not understand or comprehend every passage of the word of God, but the daily reading purifies and sanctifies our mind and lives. “You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you.” Jn.15:3
The Scripture Union motto “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a lamp unto my path.” Ps. 119:105 can be our watchword as we continue our journey through the remaining part of 2020 Global Year of the Bible and beyond. And so I close by making the title question personal.
2020 Global Year 0f The Bible: How Are We Doing?
Have a blessed Easter
Author: Rev. Joseph Ezeigbo
Rev. Joseph Ezeigbo is the Vice-Chairman of ECWA USA and a Bible teacher for the weekly Bible study at ECWA Maryland. He is also a part of the National Day of Prayer and the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted.
