“Then the Pharisees went and plotted together how they might trap Him in what He said. And they sent their disciples to Him, along with the Herodians, saying, ‘Teacher, we know that You are truthful and teach the way of God in truth, and defer to no one; for You are not partial to any. Tell us then, what do You think? Is it lawful to give a poll-tax to Caesar, or not?’ But Jesus perceived their malice, and said, ‘Why are you testing Me, you hypocrites? Show Me the coin used for the poll-tax.’ And they brought Him a denarius. And He said to them, ‘Whose likeness and inscription is this?’ They said to Him, ‘Caesar’s.’ Then He said to them, ‘Then render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s; and to God the things that are God’s.’ And hearing this, they were amazed, and leaving Him, they went away.” Matthew 22:15-22
Reading God’s Word is the cornerstone for a godly life and witness when approached with the following guidelines.
God’s Word is authoritative. You cannot rationalize, justify, or cleverly manipulate what God says through the Scriptures. God cannot lie and the Bible is His inspired and inerrant revelation to mankind. You may not understand all it says, but you must accept the Bible as unalterable truth.
God’s Word is authoritative truth for you. The Bible was penned by the Holy Spirit through chosen men to speak to your heart. The Scriptures are God’s personal revelation of Himself and His ways to your heart, mind, and soul. Each day you can pick it up and eagerly anticipate what the Father will share with you.
God’s Word is authoritative truth for you to obey. Read, believe, and obey. Obedience is the doorway to true spiritual adventure, making the Christian life exciting. Obey whether or not you understand all the implications. Do what God says and you can expect to receive His best.
Draw on God’s boundless grace expressed in His Word and you will never lack for strength, courage, or wisdom while facing any circumstances.
“If we are not governed by God, we will be ruled by tyrants.” -William Penn