D.L.

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Learn – Inspiration – Vision – Encounter

“For whatever was written in the past was written for our instruction, so that we may have hope through endurance and through the encouragement from the Scriptures.” (Romans 15,4 CSB17)

So, what was written in the past? To grasp this could mean facing with hope the unknown, the challenges of our present, and preparing us for the future. It is the Scriptures—the very Word of God to us and for us. The Word is written for our instruction, edification, comfort, and, most importantly, to hear the voice of the Lord. The Word is essential for our encouragement.

When I think about these verses, I think of the significant loss that sin caused in humanity. We lost that intimate relationship with our Creator. We were created to hear, perceive and respond to the voice of God. One can hardly imagine what that was like. From then on, it has been a struggle to hear God speak.

Thus, the reason for his Word. The Scriptures, the very voice, thoughts, and mind of God to us, were forged through the lives of individuals and a nation. It reached its climax when Jesus said He is the Word that has come in the Flesh.

Finally, we can have much hope and endure what comes to us through the encouragement of God’s Word. Let me point you to just one example among many:

“No one will be able to stand against you as long as you live. I will be with you, just as I was with Moses. I will not leave you or abandon you.
“Be strong and courageous, for you will distribute the land I swore to their ancestors to give them as an inheritance. Above all, be strong and very courageous to observe carefully the whole instruction my servant Moses commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right or left, so you will succeed wherever you go. This book of instruction must not depart from your mouth; you are to meditate on it day and night so that you may carefully observe everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in whatever you do. Haven’t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.””
(Joshua 1,5-9 CSB17)

If this was true for Joshua, it is true for us.