The Bible-Is It Just a Good Book? - The Bible Gives Moral and Spiritual Insight

Secular education is important.  But "educations . . .that produces initials at the end of your name . . .is no guarantee of moral intelligence," said an editorial in Canada's newspaper Ottawa Citizen.   Indeed, many highly educated people-including leaders in business and government-cheat, defraud, and steal, resulting in "a serious crisis of confidence," according to a global study published by Edelman, a public relations firm.

The Bible focuses on moral and spiritual education. It gives us insight into "what is righteous and just and fair, the entire course of what is good."  (Proverbs 2:9)  To illustrate,  a 23-year-old man, whom we will call Stephen, was in prison in Poland. While confined, he began to study the Bible and to appreciate its practical advice.   "I now see what it means to 'honor your father and your mother,'" he wrote.  "I have also learned to control my emotions, especially excessive anger." -Ephesians 4:31; 6:2.

A principle that Stephen took to heart is the one found at Proverbs 19:11: "The insight of a man certainly slows down his anger, and it is beauty on his part to overlook an offense."   Now, when Stephen is confronted with a challenging situation, he tries to analyze it calmly and to apply the relevant Bible principles.  "I have found that the Bible is the best guidebook," he said.

Maria, who is one of Jehovah's Witnesses, was publicly insulted by a prejudiced woman, who caused quite a commotion.  But instead of retaliating, Maria calmly continued on her way.  The other woman then felt bad about her behavior and sought out the Witnesses. About a month later, when she finally saw Maria again, she hugged Maria and apologized to her.   Moreover, she correctly discerned that Maria's mildness and self-control reflected her religious beliefs.  The result?  The once prejudiced woman and five members of her family decided to study the Bible with Jehovah's Witnesses.

Wisdom is vindicated by its results, said Jesus Christ.  (Luke 7:35)  Bible principle, therefore, stand vindicated!  They bring out the best in us.  They 'make the inexperienced  wise,'  they 'cause the heart to rejoice,' and they 'make eyes shine' with moral and spiritual clarity.  -Psalm 19:7, 8. 

Next time: The Bible-Is It Just a Good Book? - The Bible Explains Human Suffering and Conflict

From the Awake! magazine