Over the years I’ve gradually become a fan of much country music.
What impresses me the most are those lyrics that tell the listener a story that’s real and believable. Some songwriters just have a knack for presenting their stories from the heart.
As a storyteller of sorts, I cherish the opportunity to relate true accounts — His and mine.
As I consider the topics for these weekly essays, my desire is to convey a message that will possibly benefit the reader.
To properly present, I often attempt to share a few tidbits of my personal experiences.
But, the most important part of each message is sharing some of His Story. Throughout Scripture, we are blessed to sense the presence of God as expressed by some 40 authors in the 66 books of the Bible.
As I’ve aged, reflecting on my life and the many intimate stories found in Scripture has become a passionate pursuit.
In Psalm 71:18, the psalmist comforts us in our advanced years: “Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come.”
Those are legacy words of instruction to this particular writer. My desire is to convey His Truth to the unconvinced in this world.
As I see it, this is no easy task, since many are caught up in the foolishness of this world.
It’s possible to read the Bible from beginning (Genesis) to end (Revelation) and not come to faith in Christ Jesus.
If you fall into that broad category, I suggest you take a leap of faith and ask God to show you the Truth found in His Holy Word.
Perhaps it would be good to read just one of the 66 books first. The Book of John describes the Gospel message through the accounts of Jesus’ life quite differently than the synoptic gospel messages of Matthew, Mark and Luke the precede the Apostle John’s narrative.
There’s probably no better place to start than John 1:1: “In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God.”
In essence the Apostle is letting us know that what has been written is a true representation of God Almighty and we need to heed His Word.
I pray that the Apostle’s true account will bring you out of the darkness and into the Light.
Yes, you will need to respond to the call to accept Christ Jesus as your Savior and Lord. You will need to turn from the sinful ways of humanity. You must be born again and filled with the Holy Spirit.
This supernatural life in Christ will not necessarily be a bed of roses, but you will find piece with God and experience a relationship with your Heavenly Father for Eternity.