The old phrase says to us “out of sight, out of mind”. The message seems to tell us that when something is not before us, then it is not a matter of thought. The phrase may serve as an excuse for forgetfulness, but it is not that which is acceptable to God when it comes to spiritual growth.
On Sunday I shared from the book of Amos a warning from God that should shake every true follower of Jesus Christ down to the core of our being. In Amos 8:11-12, God sends these words through Amos: “Behold, the days are coming,” says the Lord GOD, “That I will send a famine on the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD.
They shall wander from sea to sea, and from north to east; They shall run to and fro, seeking the word of the LORD, but shall not find it.” Through His chosen prophet, God sends the message to Judah and Israel that their sin, rebellion, and failure to repent will bring judgment and severe consequences. While the exile of His people and the destruction of the Temple are certainly severe, never to be lessened is the possibility of no longer having access to the Word of God.
The Bible is the revelation of God to humanity. From the first verse to the last, God tells us His nature, His commands, His hatred of sin, His response to our rebellion shown in the life, death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus. Could we even imagine not being able to read His words and learn of His love, grace, and yes, His judgment? In the absence of the Bible how could we grasp the security of our salvation and what awaits in eternity?
A Bible passage I read often is Jeremiah 9:23–24: Thus says the LORD: “Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, Let not the mighty man glory in his might, Nor let the rich man glory in his riches; But let him who glories glory in this, That he understands and knows Me, That I am the LORD, exercising lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness in the earth. For in these I delight,” says the LORD. I often step back in amazement in realizing God has told us that which brings Him delight: our knowing and understanding Him. That knowledge of God does not come innately to humanity, it originates in this priceless book we know as the Bible. A book that is to be cherished, read, studied, and shared. Through our investing ourselves in the Word of God, and with the illumination of the Holy Spirit, we grow in our knowledge and understanding of the Creator.
Why share this again? Because it is all important. Sadly, for too many, when it comes to the Bible, out of sight is truly out of mind. Join me in a commitment to seeking that which brings glory to God and that in which He delights.
“I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently will find me.” Proverbs 8:17
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