Get More Out of Your Bible Reading - LET YOUR READING MOLD YOU

 Jesus also asked the question "Have you not read?" to reveal that the Pharisees had a wrong view of the Scriptures. (Matthew 12:1-7) On that occasion, the Pharisees claimed that Jesus' disciples had violated the Sabbath  In reply, Jesus cited two Scriptural examples and quoted a verse from Hosea to show that the Pharisees missed the point of the Sabbath law and had  failed to show mercy. Why were those men not molded by their reading of God's Word?  Because they read it with a critical and spirit.  Their attitude kept them from getting the sense  of what they read. - MATTHEW 23:23; JOHN 5:39, 40.

We learn from Jesus' words that we need to read the Bible with the right attitude.  Unlike the Pharisees, we must be sincere and teachable.  We must "accept with mildness the implanting of the word." (James 1:21)  If we are mild, we will allow God's Word to take root in our heart.  Only if we avoid a critical or proud spirit will the Bible's lessons about mercy, compassion, and love shape us.

The way we treat others can indicate if we are allowing God's Word to mold us.  The Pharisees failed to let God's Word reach their heart, and as a result, they "they condemned the guiltless ones." (Matthew 12:7)  In a similar way, how we view and treat others reveals whether we have let God's Word mold us.   For example, are we inclined to mention the good we see in others, or are we quick to point out their flaws? Are we merciful and ready  to forgive, or are we critical and given to holding grudges? Such self-examination can reveal whether we are letting  what we read shape our thoughts, feelings. and actions. - 1 TIMOTHY 4:12, 15; HEBREWS 4:12.

Next time: Get More Out of Your Bible Reading - READING THAT LEADS TO HAPPINESS

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