A dusty Bible leads to a dirty life. That blunt eight-word sentence is written inside the cover of one of my old King James Bibles as a constant reminder of the importance of staying connected to God’s Word. It’s a simple truth that I’ve seen lived out time and time again – unfortunately, too many times in my own life and the lives of others.
When we disconnect from God’s instructions and neglect to apply His truths to our lives, we start sliding back into our old habits, the ways of this world. Each of us lives a life of movement – we are either progressing or digressing, moving toward God or backing away. Most often we ebb and flow – three steps forward, two steps back – as we engage and disengage with God in the midst of our busy lives.
The late Dr. Howard G. Hendricks, a longtime professor at Dallas Theological Seminary, elaborated on the concept by saying, “You are either in the Word and the Word is conforming you to the image of Jesus Christ, or you are in the world and the world is squeezing you into its mold.”
Those words echo the guidance we receive in Romans 12:2, which says, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”
I always enjoy the lyrical poetry and wisdom found in the book of Psalms. In chapter 119 verse 9, this question is posed, “How can a young man cleanse his way?” Fortunately the answer follows, and we aren’t left in the dark – “by taking heed according to Your word.” Verses 10 and 11 continue with further elaboration, “With my whole heart I have sought You. Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments! Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You.”
Proverbs 4:20-22 also urges the reader to give time to God’s teachings by saying, “My son, give attention to my words; incline your ear to my sayings. Do not let them depart from your eyes; keep them in the midst of your heart, for they are life to those who find them, and health to all their flesh.”
Yes, it’s true – either God’s word will keep us from sin or sin will keep us from God’s word. With that in mind, I encourage you to dust off your Bible, delve into God’s wisdom, conform your life to His ways, and press ever onward toward the upper call of Jesus Christ.
If you like and are blessed by the content created by Outrider Ministries for Christ, we encourage you to regularly visit our website while also telling your family and friends about us. Never forget – you are important to us and vital to our success at spreading the word of God and the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all the world. May His abounding love, mercy, and grace be upon you.