Question: Why read the Bible?

Answer: It is my personal belief as a follower of Jesus; that the Bible is the written Word of God.

God’s Word has the power to change us unlike anything else. Memorizing scriptures and teaching our children to do the same is important.

Sometimes we are faced with situations and we need to have the Word in us so that it’ll flow out of us in those times.

When I was 12 years old attending a Sunday school class we were encouraged to memorize the 23rd Psalms. Almost 35 years later I still remember those passages. When I’m faced with tough times, as we all are; I say to my self; “The Lord is my Shepard I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me besides the still waters. He restores my soul. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life.”

It’s important to study and read the Bible yourself. There are many Bible study guides. I recommend reading the book of Proverbs; known as the book of wisdom. Maybe starting with the first 4 books for the New Testament. These are written accounts of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John’s journey with Jesus. These books are their journals.

Journaling also helps us better understand the Bible. I’ve discovered writing the scriptures helps me memorize them. Bible reading and scripture memorizing should be fun. Challenge one another to see who memorizes the most scriptures.

I will never forget when my son, Alex; memorized Luke 19:1-10. The story about a man named Zacchaeus, he was a short man who took extreme measures to see Jesus. My son was 7 or 8 years old and was asked to quote these versus during the adult church services. He did an amazing job quoting the scriptures in front of several hundred people. Yes, I am a very proud father.

I pray these word of encouragement will be a motivation to start a Bible reading plan personally and with your children.- Percy

“There’s greatness in you.”