How do YOU approach the Bible?

When it comes to reading and studying the Bible, there are essentially four types of believers:

(1) Those who tip-toe around the Scriptures. These are happy just to listen to their preacher or teacher tell them what the Word says. They really don't want to get their feet wet or check to see whether what they are getting is the true Word of God. These folks are more likely to get what they think they need for the moment, then back away quickly lest they have to give up too much of what they think they want to keep of the world.

(2) Those who read, just skimming the surface up to their ankles for facts or information. They are more likely to read an obligatory passage according to a schedule, often without pondering what they are reading beyond what they might need at the moment.

(3) Those who get into it up to their knees. These will read the Bible every day with a devotional or commentary close at hand for reference.

(4) Finally we have those who dive in fully, determined to milk the Word of every tidbit the Lord has been wanting to give everyone all along. Their appetites are ravenous, as they digest, apply and share what they have learned.

Carol and I want to go ever deeper. We know that we have been given the deed to a bona fide gold mine, and that it is up to us to take our tools and dig out every little nugget of that precious element. To that end we committed several years ago to "tithe plus": no less than an average of three hours a day in prayer, study, watching/listening to quality teaching and preaching, answering prayer requests and discussion with our Faith for Life group at church. The knowledge, understanding and wisdom afforded are priceless.

Sharing our love of the Lord with others is a hoot. Most people are leading lives of quiet desperation (sometimes not so quiet). What they see (Jesus) in us opens the door for occasional heart-to-heart talks. Holy Spirit lets us know quickly whether we have a receptive heart in front of us. I think of this in a way as "missionary-lite."

There has not been hard-core resistance or severe persecution, as is common for a great many believers around the world. We receive reports regularly from Voice of the Martyrs, Barnabas Aid and others. One that really stands out in my heart is the evangelist in India who is a very determined follower of Christ: "I ride my bicycle into a village, and I bang my drum. The people come out, and I share the gospel. Sometimes they accept the gospel and form a church. Other times they beat me. When I wake up, I get on my bicycle and ride to the next village." We pray that he and those like him have the encouragement and strength to continue always speaking the Truth with the boldness of lions, yet in love.

May the Father richly bless you and yours as you continue to walk in the faith of the Lord!