Psalm 119:14 – I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches. (NIV)

That morning, my 94-year-old friend wasn't interested in small talk. She opened my phone call with these words: "I've been reading the Bible every morning! I want to cover whole books at a time! I love it!" She continued, "I just can't stop reading, it's so amazing! Some mornings, I'll read for three hours, and then I realize I should get some breakfast." Her voice emanated with exuberant, joyous energy as she shared. I felt her energy lifting me up.

I've known her since I was 17, when in Sunday School, she taught me how to read the Bible. Today, her passion for Scripture is just as infectious as it was back then. Indeed, soon after our conversation, I dug into the book of Acts. That's the power of passion — and example!

I wish to make a point here: Passion for the Scriptures cannot be hidden. It shows! So does the opposite: apathy toward Scripture. That shows, too. It certainly shows in those who deliver sermons every Sunday with little reference to the Word. Furthermore, apathy shows in their listeners who don't mind; they don't notice because they don't know the Word themselves.

What about you? How's your passion for the Scriptures? Are you passionately eager to read the Bible — even books in their entirety? Or are you content with the odd verse here and there? Then, perhaps my 94-year-old friend can inspire you. She herself is an example of the benefit of passionate reading. But you are best to discover those benefits for yourself!

The Bible is God's gift to you. Let it influence you. Let it change your thinking, even long-held assumptions. I say, let the Bible grow on you — through your own relentless, passionate determination to know it. See where the Spirit takes you with that. Remember, you're not too old for such adventure … and responsibility.

Acts 17:11 – Now the Bereans … received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. (NIV)

Prayer: Dear Lord, "Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul." (Psalm 143:8 NIV) Amen.

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About the author:

Diane Eaton <dianeeaton6@gmail.com>
Paisley, Ontario, Canada
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