Chapter 2 - THE BOOK THAT REVEALS THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD

"FORM A LONGING" FOR THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD

As you study the Bible, you are likely to learn things that differ from what you have been taught in the past.  You may even find that some of your cherished religious customs do  not please God. You will learn that God has standards of right and wrong higher than those common in this permissive world.  This may seem overwhelming at first.  But be patient!  Carefully examine the Scriptures to find the knowledge of God.  Be open to the possibility that the Bible's counsel may call for an adjustment in your thinking and actions.

Well-meaning friends and relatives may oppose your  study of the Bible ( I know my family wasn't real thrilled, but they knew they had to accept what I felt was the best for me), But Jesus said:  "Everyone, then, that confesses union with me before men, I will also confess union with him before my Father who is in the heavens; but whoever disowns me before men, I will also disown him before my Father who is in the heavens."  (Matthew 10:32, 33) Some may fear that you will become involved with a cult or will turn into a fanatic.  In reality, however, you are merely striving to gain accurate knowledge of God and of his truth.  ( 1Timothy 2:3, 4) To help others understand this, be reasonable, not argumentative, when you speak to them about what you are learning.  (Philippians 4:5) Remember that many are "won without a word" when they see the evidence that Bible knowledge really benefits people. -1 Peter 3:1, 2.

The Bible  urges us:  "As newborn infants, form a longing for the unadulterated milk belonging to the word."  (1 Peter 2:2)  And infant depends on nourishment from its mother and is insistent on having that need met.  Similarly, we are dependent on knowledge from God.  "Form a longing" for his Word by continuing  your study.  Indeed, make it your goal to read the Bible daily.  (Psalm 1:1-3) This will bring you rich blessings, for Psalm 19:11 says of God's laws:  "In the keeping of them there is a large reward." 

Next time: Chapter 3 - WHO IS THE TRUE GOD?

The Book - KNOWLEDGE That Leads To Everlasting Life, 1995