The other evening Ruthie and I enjoyed a few laughs watching the Nate Bargatze comedy special on Netflix. At the time it was the #1 show on Netflix, which is encouraging given that his comedy routine is entirely clean. (Nate was raised in a Christian home and may be a Christian himself.)
Nate has a dry, self-deprecating kind of humor that works well for him. For instance, he talked about his lack of reading and how clueless he is of many subjects, especially history. He said, "When I went and saw the movie Pearl Harbor, I was just as surprised as they were."
Funny. I assume (and certainly hope!) that he was exaggerating! But it got me thinking about how biblically illiterate our society has become. If you doubt that, watch how otherwise knowledgeable contestants on the quiz show Jeopardy bomb out on the Bible categories. I've met professing Christians who are ignorant of David, Moses, Daniel, etc. Sad, but true.
Only by knowing God's Word can we understand the way of salvation, our history as the people of God, how to pray, navigate life, and maintain an eternal perspective. God's Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path (Psalm 119:105). This world as we know it, is passing away, but "the Word of our God stands forever" (Isaiah 40:8).
While 87% of households in the U.S. own a Bible, only 11% have read the entire Bible at least once. If you have never done this, I’d encourage you to do so this year. Many reading plans are available. For a sample listing, click here.
I'll conclude with the Preface that appears in Gideon Bibles. These words have always moved and motivated me, and I trust that they will have the same effect on you:
The Bible contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and its decisions immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveler's map, the pilgrim's staff, the pilot's compass, the soldier's sword, and the Christian's charter. Here paradise is restored, Heaven opened, and the gates of hell disclosed.
Christ is its grand subject, our good the design, and the glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently, and prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure. It is given you in life, will be opened at the judgment, and be remembered forever. It involves the highest responsibility, will reward the greatest labor, and will condemn all who trifle with its sacred contents.
I exhort each of you to make God's Word, along with prayer, a top priority this new year.