The
Words Of The Faith
If you put these instructions before the
brothers and sisters, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, nourished on
the words of the faith and of the sound teaching that you have followed. Have
nothing to do with profane myths and old wives' tales. Train yourself in
godliness, for, while physical training is of some value, godliness is valuable
in every way, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.
The saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance. For to this end we toil and
struggle, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of
all people, especially of those who believe.
These are the things you must insist on
and teach. Let no one despise your youth, but set the
believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. Until
I arrive, give attention to the public reading of scripture, to exhorting, to
teaching. Do not neglect the gift that is in you, which was given to you
through prophecy with the laying on of hands by the council of elders. Put
these things into practice, devote yourself to them,
so that all may see your progress. Pay close attention to yourself and to your
teaching; continue in these things, for in doing this you will save both
yourself and your hearers.
1 Timothy 4:6-16
The Bible was meant to be read aloud. The
Jewish phrasing shows us that many parts of the Bible are songs, or poems. When
the King James version of the Bible was translated
there were 12 men sitting around a room listening to the text being read aloud.
They felt that what governed the acceptability of a particular verse was not
only the accuracy to the original language, but a pleasant sound to the words.
Paul understood the power of the spoken Word, as well.
The Word of God stirs the heart when it
enters the believer's ear. So whatever version of the Bible you read in your
quiet time, remember the power of the spoken Word. Look for opportunities to
read it aloud.
God speaks
through His Word - take time to listen.
Our
Daily Bread -