The Written Word
"Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. They give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God's promises." (Romans 15:4 NLT)

With computers and word processors, we take the written word for granted. It is so easy to create and duplicate documents. Many are not even sending their computer documents to paper anymore. They simply email them to others or burn them onto CDs to distribute. Everyone I know is able to read; some in more than one language. We live in an advanced and educated society.

Words written today not only affect thinking today, they can have a profound affect on future generations. However, not all written works will go down in history as profound. With the Internet, anyone is able to publish their own work online. Many use web logs or blogs to do just that. Their thoughts, profound or not, are placed in cyberspace for all to read.

The Bible was written almost two thousand years ago. God instructed many to write an account of their time in history. Their words were painstakingly written, letter by letter, for others to read. The printing press and copy machine was yet to be invented. Very few had written documents to read. But then again, most people could not even read.

The beginning of our Bible was used to instruct the Jews in their history and law. It gave them encouragement as they waited patiently for God’s promises. Those who have yet to accept Jesus as the Messiah still wait. Paul’s letters were used as current instructional material. They were like the tape recorder or CD of a message sent to another church today. Other believers listened to the words read from his letter and were encouraged in their walk with Christ. The Gospels were written to tell the story of Jesus and His walk on earth as a man.

Everything in the Bible, from beginning to end, has a purpose. I believe it is the inspired Word of God. As we delve into His Word, He shows us little pieces which relate to us. He reveals to us that which we are ready to see. His words give each of us hope and encouragement. The key is to take the time each day to read them.