Letting God’s Word Change Me

In review of James 1:22 it says,“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” (NIV)

While it's important to listen to what God's Word says, it is much more important to obey it and do what it says. I can measure the effectiveness of my quiet times by looking at its effect on my behavior and attitudes.

With my Bible, I can mark it up, underline key passages and even memorize passages or verses. If I never practice what I’m taught, it won’t change me.  

The book of James says, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says” (James 1:22 NIV).

To receive the blessings of the Bible, I have to respond to it and let it change me.

Here are some questions I can ask myself as I read a passage of Scripture:

1). Does this show me a sin I need to confess or an attitude I need to change?

2). Does God give me a command to obey or an example to follow?

3). Is there a prayer in this passage of Scripture that I can pray for myself or for other people?

As I put these questions into practice, I’ll soon find that I’m not the same person.

There’s a translation of the Bible called The Living Bible. That’s what each of us should be, a living Bible. The best translation of Scripture is when I translate it into my life and let it change me.

In summary, do not merely listen to the Word, do what it says. It is much more important to obey what's in it, and do what it says. If I never practice what I'm taught, It won't change me. To receive the blessings contained in it, I have to respond to it and let it change me. As I get into the Word, consider if it shows me a sin I need to confess or an attitude to change? Is there a command to obey or an example to follow? Is there a prayer that I can pray for myself or for others? I need to let God's Word translate into my life and allow it to change me. 

Father I know there are times when I quickly go through your Word and even write about it in my journal. I pray that you help me to really be serious about what I read and study. Allow your Word to transform my thinking and my attitude. I ask for wisdom and guidance for my day, my work, my leadership and my interactions with others. I pray these things through your Son Jesus name, Amen.