I have noticed one thing many who call themselves “Bible Believing Christians” have in common with critics of Christianity, faith, and God. It is often the need to actually read the Bible. Many of those professing to believe in the Bible have read it once, or read it “cafeteria style”, picking and choosing what lines or texts they wish to read. Still others are content to listen to other quotes or paraphrases, thinking then they know “what the Bible is about.” For example: “God helps those who help themselves.” That is actually not in the Bible.
Honestly, I am not sure how to best read the Bible. Genesis to Revelation is one way. Going through the books in groups (Gospels, letters, wisdom literature, prophets, etc.) Perhaps reading first Mark’s Gospel would be a good beginning. Just read it. And read entire books, not portions.
To be fair, many of those professing belief in the Bible do read it and read it constantly and well. Yet I have had so many over the years quote back to me what the Bible says when indeed it does not say the quotes nor concepts they claim. When pressed by me for chapter/verse I receive only repeats of “It’s in there,” or some similar “evidence”.
You and I can’t be smug about this. I have heard people on the left and middle make similar comments regarding what is “biblical.” We too need to actually read it. If the Bible is a living Word of God, speaking new things through old words, reading it through once is not enough. That may suffice for a book of history that just spews back facts, but not for a writing that lives in all contemporary times.
When is the last time you read the Bible or did some very intentional reading of a biblical book or books? Yes, I understand busyness and how hectic and pressure-filled 21st Century and pandemic living has become. Perhaps some time for reading may actually help. Lamentations could be one book. It may be a sort of “holy whining”, but it seems quite acceptable to do such. That in itself can be of some comfort. Psalms praise God, yes, but many also express a depth of human feeling that with which you and I can identify.
The Bible is to be more than a bookshelf or coffee table setting. God’s address through its words can add challenge. They also can bring relief, comfort, and joy. Perhaps the best time to read it may be when life’s challenges are most pressing. What word might God have in store for you? What reminder, what new thought, what prod? We cannot get by with quoting what we think we know. We need to let what we hear the Bible say speak to us now. The quotes will take care of themselves