The value of immersing ourselves in God’s Word is without measure. It is powerful enough to teach us about our heavenly Father, point out our sins, and guide us on our spiritual walk with Him. Can you think of any more worthy habit?
Eternal Perspectives by Sally Bair
Soaking in God’s Words
After this summer’s drought, I’ve noticed many birds splashing in puddles left by recent, welcomed rains. They linger a long while in the water, singing and obviously enjoying their refreshment and cleansing. It reminds me of days on the farm when I soaked in a tub after a hot day working in the hayfield. As the grime and sweat peeled off my body, I relaxed and rested.
I imagine similar peace and cleansing when I sit in the spiritual pool of God’s Word. Verse by verse, layer by layer, it soaks off my habits of pride and lack of love, my independent nature, and my lack of discipline. All of us would do well to make it a daily habit of soaking in His Word, even on days we feel like avoiding His cleansing.
When Jesus taught at the home of Lazarus one day, Lazarus’s sister Mary sat at Jesus’ feet, listening intently. She soaked in the beauty and truth of His words because she knew they contained life. We might ask ourselves if we soak in His Word as Mary did, or ask whether we rely more on someone else’s words for life. God’s Word, unlike that of anyone else, will bless us with true wisdom and understanding about ourselves and about Him.
God once dwelt in the Holy of Holies within the Old Testament Ark of the Covenant. None other than the high priest could enter, but only after sacrificing animal blood for the sins of the people and cleansing himself in the outer court before entering. Most Israelites were content to remain “outside,” allowing themselves to be forgiven through the priest’s efforts.
Jesus’ death and resurrection changed all that. “For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but … let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” (Hebrews 4:15-16) No longer do we need a mediator to represent us for spiritual cleansing. God loved us so much He sent His only son to take our sins upon Himself at the cross so we might be cleansed. When we truly believe that, He promises us eternal life with Him.
Lord, with our hearts and minds we believe Your Word. Thank You for allowing us direct access to You through Jesus, the Word of life, who refreshes and cleanses us and gives us life everlasting. Cause us to soak in Your Word daily. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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