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How often do you read the Bible? A survey by the American Bible Association found that 57 percent of the people read their Bible four times or less per year. Another survey found that only 19 percent of the people read the Bible on a daily basis. The ABA survey also showed that people between the ages of 18-28 read the Bible even less that older adults. In the ABA survey, 61 percent wish they would read the Bible more often.
I read a bulletin article recently that told of two young people talking about understanding the Bible. One said, “You know, I’m beginning to unravel the mysteries of the Old Testament—I’ve started reading it”! With the lack of reading and study, it is no wonder that so many don’t understand the “mysteries” of the Old Testament—which are not really mysteries when the Bible is studied with an open mind.
It is sad that so many value their own thoughts and beliefs more than they do God’s Word. Yet, Jesus said we would all be judged by the Words which He spoke, which came from God (John 12:48). He also said that not all who claim to call on His name would be saved, but only those who do God’s will (Matthew 7:21).
Doesn’t this sound a little scary about plowing ahead with life without really digging into Bible study? It should! Friends, we can’t rely on what someone tells us about salvation. It is our responsibility to know and do what God has said! The road to eternal life is found in the pages of the holy Bible. Let’s read it, study it and then do what God has commanded.
John K. Wills
Owingsville church of Christ
Owingsville, KY