They read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people understood what was being read….
Then all the people went away to eat and drink, to send portions of food and to celebrate with great joy, because they now understood the words that had been made known to them.
Nehemiah 8:8, 12
To find delight in the Word of God, we must have understanding. We must not only know words and definitions, but we must perceive its significance. We must approach the Word with the proper perspective.
We need to know that the Bible is not just a book. It is not irrelevant or outdated. It is vital to the believer. It is absolutely necessary…. It is essential!
The Word of God is God speaking to us (present tense). He is presently speaking to us conveying information, sharing His thoughts and feelings, and addressing the issues of life. He is speaking… providing the evidence upon which to build our faith (Hebrews 11:1).
The Word of God is God revealing himself to us (who He is, what He is like, His ways, and His thoughts). We cannot fully know Him apart from His Word. He has chosen to make Himself known through His Word. (Psalm 119:130, John 1:1, Romans 15:25-26)
The Word of God is God’s instruction. Through His Word He provides detailed information telling us how things should be done and how life should be lived. He teaches and gives us knowledge and direction. (2 Tim 3:16-17, Proverbs 2:6, Psalm 119:11)
The Word of God is God’s guidance. The light of His word shines into dark places and illuminates our path advising us of the proper course of action and helps us to resolve problems and difficulties. (Psalm 119: 24,105, Psalm 18:35-36)
The Word of God is life and the source of life. It strengthens. It refreshes and restores the soul. It renews the mind. The word of God can add years to your life. The Word of God creates and sustains. In fact, the world and everything in it came into existence by the Word of God. (John 6:63, Proverbs 4:10, Matthew 4:4, Deuteronomy 8:3, John 7:38, Jer. 5:16, Heb. 11:3)
The Word of God is alive! It is active and responsive. It is ready to work and engage in pursuit. Psalm 147:15 says that He [the Lord] sends forth his command to the earth; his word runs swiftly! He sends the Word to heal. He sends His Word to deliver, and Isaiah 55:11 lets us know that the Word of God accomplishes its purpose. (Hebrews 4:12, 1 Peter 1:23, Psalm 107:20)
When we understand the importance God’s Word and its value to our lives, we will find joy and delight in it. We must make the Word of God our priority. It is our life source. Our source of strength and power for living. It is what we must live by.
“It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God.’ ” – Matthew 4:4