Hey there, friends.
My niece recently graduated from Army Basic Training. The physical, mental and emotional demands she faced during those 16 weeks were brutal. To encourage her through this journey, our family wrote letters to her.
While I’m sure she appreciated each one, the letters from her father gave her the most strength and encouragement. He included scriptures and memories that were special to them. She carried his letters with her and read them over and over. When she read them, it was like having her daddy right there with her. She could hear his voice and remember how much he loves her.
The letters reminded her of the strength she has and can have with God living within her. Her father’s words helped her navigate life with new people and new obstacles. And maybe most importantly, he helped her manage her emotions when she was homesick and physically exhausted. Ultimately, he helped her believe she could accomplish the great task before her. And she did.
My friends, the Bible is God's love letter to us, not only telling us He loves us, but showing us what He has done to demonstrate His love. He tells us how we should live, because He knows what is best for us and wants us to experience life abundantly. 2 Timothy 3:16 (ESV) tells us, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” His Word covers every aspect of our lives.
When we open His Word, God will be there. He is ready to teach us and encourage us. Like Eric Gagnon says in The Answers to Your Deepest Longings:
"When we open God’s Word, we are literally meeting with God."
Just like my niece carried letters from her dad to read over and over, we have God’s Word to carry with us, in our hands, in our minds and in our hearts! We can hear our Father’s voice whispering words of love and encouragement, and we draw near.
Today we are completing:
Let’s meet God in His Word,
Alicia
Let’s Chat!
What words from God are you most longing to hear today, and why?