A Bible is Born

A BIBLE IS BORN

Part 7 of 12 Celebrating Scripture Series

2Timothy 3:16

“All Scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

Any bible (BI-bl) is a handbook of truth. Our Holy Bible is God’s Word of truth. The opening Scripture proves its accuracy and dependability. We read it so that we’re thoroughly equipped for life—or as Paul insists to Timothy, for “every good work.” Let’s learn now to get the most out of our Lord’s handbook.

Just as babies are weaned from milk to solid food as bodies develop, believers gradually mature (ma-TURE means grow up) spiritually. Graduating from milk to solid food only comes as our understanding God’s Word evolves. (The Holy Spirit won’t reveal deep truths until we’re ready for them). No matter how many times a person reads the Bible from cover to cover, digesting the “meat” in the Word won’t happen—until we chew the words before swallowing them. (Meditating on and planting them securely in the heart).

Growing spiritually won’t happen without feasting on the Bible’s content, on purpose. Truly, the Bible advises believers how to handle everything in life. It is handy reference—from infancy to old age—no matter the circumstance. While we’ll never stop learning, the more we grow spiritually, the more yummy God’s Word tastes. This doesn’t happen by osmosis (os-MO-sis means that understanding automatically seeps into us because God is everywhere). The Bible must be read—or heard—personally.

2011 celebrates the 400th anniversary of the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, finished in 1611. While the Old Testament books existed for thousands of years (Moses wrote the first ones), it took millenniums for technology to grow up. Men invented ink, then parchment. Parchment scrolls finally grew into books through later inventions of printing and binding. The Septuagint was the original ancient Greek version of the Old Testament, completed around 150 B.C. (Before Christ).

From a single artifact (ART-i-fact means historic object, or relic—REL-ik), our modern Bible journeyed from what no one would recognize as “Scripture.” Today, technology eases our reading burden further with the invention of Cassie’s Nook, another’s Kindle, or aother electronic device.

Take Home Nugget

“Whatcha reading, Missy?” Cassie asked. The two fifth-graders sitting on blankets at the swimming pool, were absorbed in their electronic reading devices.

“I’ve got VBS (Vacation Bible School) homework on The Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12). I’m sure glad that I don’t have to lug my precious Bible here—it could get ruined!”

Yes, the Bible is more precious than gold:

Our hopes, God’s promises therein unfold.

It reveals to us Jesus and His vast love,

Showing the only way to mansions above.

J.D. Griffith

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Priority Choice

PRIORITY CHOICE

Part 6 of 12 Celebrating Scripture Series

1Peter 2:1-3

“Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.”

“Hey Cassie, can I borrow a quarter?” 10-year-old Jeremy asked his school class-mate at the swimming pool.

“OK Jeremy, here ya go” Cassie said, flipping him a quarter. “That won’t buy much. A hot dog costs a dollar.”

“Right. I’ll eat at home—this is for one of those tubes that hold a couple swallows of fruit drink. Thanks!”

Swallowing drink is a good pick-me-up after hours in the hot sun. When thirsty, a drink becomes top priority (pri-OR-i-tee means concern). The opening Scripture lists all kinds of things believers stop doing after becoming God’s kids. Malice (MAL-is means hateful, or spiteful), hypocrisy (hip-KROS-i-see means insincere, two-faced), deceit (de-SEET means dishonest), envy (EN-vee means jealous), slander (SLAN-der means insulting)—all behaviors we’re to avoid.

When believers choose to read God’s Word, we grow up in our salvation. Those behaviors listed above fade away, and righteous living takes their place. After reading God’s Word gets our attention, we’re hooked. We begin to crave it. God’s hoping that we open our Bibles and begin lapping up the pure spiritual milk of His Word every day.

We eat food when our stomachs grumble with hunger. We don’t often miss a meal, but how often do we neglect our spirit? Spiritual growth is as important as physical growth—since one day—our bodies will die. Why then, do we “forget” to feed our spirit, that never dies? When we choose to read the Bible every day, that becomes our priority, and we grow into spiritually-mature adults.

The promise is that once you begin “tasting” God’s milk, sipping—or reading a small passage of Scripture—you’ll develop a hunger for it. Your craving won’t be satisfied with simple reading. Soon, you will meditate on passages and ask God questions when His Word doesn’t make sense.

Daily Bible reading will never feel like an “obligation” (ob-li-GA-shon means duty). Instead, hunger for the Word will growl until you feed it. You’ll learn stuff about God that will rock your world. Learning more about God will become a delight. You’ll choose to make Bible reading your priority!

Take Home Nugget

As you grow into a spiritual adult, you’ll become a walking treasure. You’ll know what to expect from God. You’ll grow to know His character, His ways. These treasures can never be stolen from you.

We’re all accountable for how we spend every day.

Lets choose carefully, and not waste mindlessly away.

J.D. Griffith

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Faith Victory

FAITH VICTORY

Part 5 of 12 Celebrating Scripture Series

1John 5:4-5

“…for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith. Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.” (Emphasis added.)

The Bible’s main objective (ob-JEK-tiv means point, purpose) is to reveal Jesus as God’s Son. Thousands of words tucked inside its 66 books point us to the Father, then to His Son, Jesus. Throughout, we’re encouraged to build a relationship with Him—the only way to eternal life.

Jesus’ victory is through water and blood. The water signifies His baptism, when the Holy Spirit lighted upon Jesus’ shoulder in the form of a dove. It is the Holy Spirit, (the Spirit of truth), Who testifies (TEST-i-fies means swears to, gives witness, confirms) that Jesus is God’s Son. This public show-and-tell was seen by many on the banks of the Jordan River. (Matthew 3:16-17).

The blood stands for Jesus’ death. Jesus’ flesh was torn to ribbons. Nails pounded into His hands and feet fastened Him to the cross. A spear pierced His side. Only Jesus—perfect God-man—could pay the price that bought forgiveness of sins for all humankind. By His sacrificial death, Jesus united the Old Testament with the New, as believers’ [Passover] Lamb (1Corinthians 5:7).

Passover was when people killed a lamb, and put its blood on the door posts so the angel would “pass over” their home (Exodus 12:1-13). The wall that separated the Holy of Holies from the worshippers in the temple, blew apart when Jesus died on the cross that Good Friday over 2,000 years ago (Matthew 27:51).

Indeed, water and blood are vital ingredients for our victory:  The Spirit, the water, and the blood are in total agreement. They confirm, or testify that Jesus is God’s Son. Anyone who believes in the Son of God has this testimony in his heart. Whoever does not believe God makes Him out to be a liar (1John 5:10).

Would you ever call God a liar?

Take Home Nugget

This is what “free will” is all about. God does not demand that His created people bow to Him in worship, thanks, and adoration. We’re allowed to scream at God, even call Him a liar to His face. Whoever does not embrace Jesus and repent of sin will never have eternal life, their destiny is sealed.

Those who choose to believe that Jesus is God’s Son also have a sealed destiny. The Holy Spirit seals them for redemption (Ephesians 4:30). Their faith secures their victory for eternal life!

Faith looks beyond this temporary life,

Filled with gladness, but also trouble and strife.

Our victory is assured for all eternity:

Certainly, firmly, positively, confidently.

J.D. Griffith

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Meditation / Conversation

MEDITATION / CONVERSATION

Part 4 of 12 Celebrating Scripture Series

Psalm 1:1-3

The Message: “How well God must like you—you don’t hang out at Sin Salon, you don’t slink along Dead-End Road, you don’t go to Smart-Mouth College.

2Instead you thrill to God’s Word, you chew on Scripture day and night.

3You’re a tree replanted in Eden, bearing fresh fruit every month,

Never dropping a leaf, always in blossom.”

This Scripture is a perfect way to introduce God’s kids into how to hold a conversation with the Almighty. We ask questions. God ALWAYS answers. He’s delighted when we seek Him in His Word! For example, the first verse, above, (although it’s from The message, your Bible will have the same meaning using different words), we can ask God if we are hanging out with the wrong crowd. Am I missing Your best blessings because of my choice of friends?

The second verse begs the question, “What do I mainly think about, Lord?” When we simply read Scripture, snap the Bible shut, and forget what we just read, we flunk the test. But when we reflect on the meaning, it penetrates inside our hearts. If we don’t understand it, ask God, “What does this passage mean, Lord?” The indwelling Holy Spirit brings its meaning into focus.

“What do You mean by meditating on Your Word day and night, Lord? I’m a busy kid!” For sure, we can’t meditate on His Word when we’re in a hurry. Meditation is a discipline. It requires silence, stillness, and concentration. The process of meditation/conversation requires desire on our part. When we listen to God’s small still voice, problem Scripture passages suddenly become clear.

He’ll also reveal not only the meaning, but how it applies to our lives. Our goal is to gain a deeper understanding of God, and ourselves. Deliberate seeking God involves thought, exploration, and prayer. The Lord’s transforming power explodes in our lives, enabling us to face every difficulty. Victorious living isn’t an accident—it’s deliberate—and planned.

The third verse above, promises success. “How can I become fruitful, Lord?” What kind of tree are you? Are you satisfied with dead leaves and rotten fruit? (Some questions are asked just to get us thinking). What’s displayed you your Tablet? Do you like sports stories, mysteries, action, adventure, romance, comics? What would someone think of you when seeing what’s visible on your Tablet? What would God think of your reading choices?

What would you think of someone whose electronic reading device displayed Scripture?

Take Home Nugget

We become Spiritually mature (ma-TURE means grown-up, adult) when we apply living to what we learn from Scripture.

I seek, ask, and ponder,

God’s love is awesome, and totally free!

Lost in holy wonder,

What, O Lord, is Your answer for me?

J.D. Griffith

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Spiritual Rutter

SPIRITUAL RUTTER

Part 3 of 12 Celebrating Scripture Series

Psalm 119:105

“Your Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light for my path.”

Ships have rudders. They’re what steers it, just like the steering wheel in a car. But, while rudders are important—to keep God’s kids going in the right direction—we also need rutters. A rutter is a log of personal memories. It reminds believers when, where, and how Jesus walked us through problems.

So when we’re in another impossible situation, our rutter encourages us, inspiring faith that everything will be alright. Personal rutters help us navigate through dangerous seas with confidence. “Seas” could be sin, low self-esteem, chronic illness, money concerns—anything. We often think it’d take a miracle to get us out of a jam, but God’s still in the miracle business today!

Third-grader Shakira, bounded up to fifth-grader Cassie at the swimming pool. “Heah Cass.”

Cassie looked up. “Hi Shak. I didn’t realize that you were here today” she said. “What’s up?”

“I, uh, got my cell phone wet. Now it won’t work. I want to call Mom to pick me up.”

“When did this happen, Shak? It’s almost five o’clock!”

“I think around one.”

“What happened?”

“It fell in the pool.”

“What?” Cassie asked, raising her eye brows.

“I got pushed in. It wasn’t my fault! I laid it in the sun all afternoon, but it still won’t work!”

“Why did it take all day for you to find help, Shak?”

“I’ve been worried sick all day. I spent my dollar on food. I don’t know what to do Cassie! Can you help me?”

“I wish you’d come to me sooner” Cassie said, pulling out her cell phone from her bag. “Call your Mom now, Shak—she must be worried sick about you!”

Shakira sighed long. “Thanks, Cassie.”

“Next time, don’t ruin your day making yourself sick with worry. Remember to find me, OK?”

That’s Jesus response to our worries, too. “What took you so long to ask Me?” Our job is to keep our eyes on Jesus, and go to Him anytime, through prayer. Prayer “conversations” are not one-sided. Other people often provide answers. Our prayers may include Scripture reference (to remind God of a promise), ask a question, plead for help, or offer up praise and thanks. But our handbook—the Bible—is easy reference all the time

Take Home Nugget

God is especially faithful in trying times. Dangers pop up in life, and we’re always tempted to sin. Our rudder (the Holy Spirit) and our spiritual rutter (personal memories of assurance) keep God’s kids on course. God’s Word is the map, the indwelling Holy Spirit is the compass, and we’re never alone or abandoned!

The Bible—a guidebook true

Shows us the way

With courage, hope, and joy anew

Steering us through each day.

J.D. Griffith

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Read & Research

READ & RESEARCH

Part 2 of 12 Celebrating Scripture Series

Isaiah 55:9-11

“As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts. As the rain and snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is My Word that goes out from My mouth: it will not return to Me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”

God lets us know Who’s boss. Doesn’t the opening Scripture make you think? We ought to feel very special, as God’s beloved children. He purposefully gave us His Word so that we’ll read it, and learn about our Creator. Upon reflection, we learn more about ourselves. There are people around the world who are being mistreated just for having a Bible today. Many more want desperately to hold one! Still others can’t read, and hunger to hear God’s Word read aloud.

Along with prayer and worship, reading God’s Word is the best way to get to know Him. His personality is revealed in Scripture. He longs for His kids to pay attention to Him, and is so honored when we take time to read—and research (RE-serch means study) His words. Those who read Scripture only when they’re in trouble miss out on so much. God blesses those who voluntarily read His Word, and dig into understanding His qualities, behavior, and character. There are riches inside the Bible—jewels worth more than gold.

Before long, we develop a personal, intimate (IN-tim-at means close, warm) relationship with our sovereign Lord. BINGO! Right on! This is God’s goal!

Eight-year-old Shakira adores her cousin, ten-year-old, Cassie. They attend the same school, and the same church. Cassie always pays attention to Shak, giving her undivided attention when they’re together. Shakira never hesitates to “hang around” Cassie because she knows that Cassie loves her, looks out for her best, and never blows her off when around other kids. Is there anyone close to your age with whom you enjoy hanging out?

When the feeling’s mutual (MUTE-u-al means common agreement), this is how God feels about you when you read His Word. Respect. Tribute. Favor. God’s crazy about you!

Take Home Nugget

So, where to start? If you don’t follow daily devotions, and are unsure how to begin reading the Bible, choose one Gospel. Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John are the first four books in the Bible’s New Testament. John’s a perfect beginning!

God Himself is with thee

Your Savior, Keeper, Friend;

He’ll never forsake you or betray you—

He’ll walk with you till the end!

J.D. Griffith

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Celebrating Scripture

CELEBRATING SCRIPTURE

Part 1 of 12 Celebrating Scripture Series

Proverbs 8:32-35

The Message: “So, my dear friends, listen carefully; those who embrace these my ways are most blessed. Mark a life of discipline and live wisely; don’t squander your precious life. Blessed is the man, blessed is the woman, who listens to me, awake and ready for me each morning, alert and responsive as I start my day’s work. When you find me, you find life, real life, to say nothing of God’s good pleasure.” (Me=Wisdom—calling us)

“Watcha reading?” Jeremy asked Cassie, whose Reader's Tablet leaned against her thighs as she sat bent-kneed on the ground, by the swimming pool.

Looking up, she squinted in the bright sunshine. “Oh, hi Jerm! I’ve got tons of books on my Tablet. But right now, I’m reading the 8th chapter of Proverbs, in the Bible.”

“Couldn’t you find something more interesting to read than the Bible?”

“It’s early” Cassie replied, shaking her head. “Devotions first, then I’ll begin my next book.” She waved Jeremy to one side. “You’re blocking the sun, Jerm! How can I get tan when you’re the firewall jamming the sun?”

Cassie’s got her priorities correct (pri-OR-i-tees rank personal concerns by importance). She knows that when she reads the Bible first, the rest of her day falls neatly in line. Today, she’s learning about wisdom. Cassie reads her devotions first thing every morning, and tries to remember what she learned throughout the day. It’s good practice to pick a time for daily devotions and stick to it.

What’s so exciting about the Bible? God’s Word happens to be the best seller of all time! Its collection of writings, books penned by different people, is the only complete human handbook ever published. The Bible is superior to all other books: truths worth living by, and worth dying for. The Bible’s principles are holy, its rules—indispensable (in-de-SPENS-i-bl means vital, necessary, crucial).

Scripture provides light that guides, food that nourishes, comfort that heals, salve that soothes, parties that cheer, and a rock that anchors. The Bible is map, GPS (Global Positioning System), compass, walking staff, and sword—the complete traveling guide for humans’ victory. We celebrate Scripture, because there’s not one promise that God fails to keep.

Electronic or hard copy choices bring the written word to us, surrounding us as we try keeping pace in today’s world. Don’t allow anyone to block “the Son” from you! Regardless of how you choose to read, won’t you join us in this Celebrating Scripture series?

Take Home Nugget

“What a perfect fun day!” Missy commented when Cassie joined her in the pool.
“Thank You, God” Cassie replied. “Thank You for this perfect fun day!”

Loving Father, Yahweh,

Holy Spirit our guide,

Savior Jesus every day

In Him we can abide.

J.D. Griffith

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No One Knows

NO ONE KNOWS

Matthew 24:36

“No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the Coming of the Son of Man.”

How did you react to Judgment Day, May 21, 2011? Who predicted that? And why? Do you want some answers—now that the date has passed?

Harold Camping, a self-declared prophet, is the man behind this. He’s studied God’s Word all his life—and he’s 89. His first book, 1994?, prophesized the end, too! The ? in the title provided an escape for “Plan B,” which was 2011. His motivation is Ezekiel 33:6: “But if the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet to warn people and the sword comes and takes the life of one of them, that man will not be taken away because of his sin, but I will hold the watchman accountable for his blood.” Harold claims that he misunderstood Matthew 24:22.

Harold Camping’s followers donated over 72 million dollars to his campaign—so, he has the money necessary to “blow the [warning] trumpet.” The billboards across America, the full-page ads in the USA Today newspaper did the job well. Harold Camping has done all he can do…now he’s responsible for scamming millions.

Jesus’ disciples were curious about the end of this age, too. As Jesus’ words teased them in Matthew 24-25:30, they were sure they’d see their Messiah return! And every succeeding generation—sure that they would be alive to witness Jesus coming on the clouds (Matthew 24:30-31)—lived and died. Jesus promise remains alive! Harold’s prophecy is just the most recent mistake made by a human. Why do people think they can predict what Jesus doesn’t even know? Mr. Camping still doesn't get it--his next date is October 21, 2011.

I hope that Harold Camping’s messages don’t freak you out. Our future is exciting:

In September, 2011, the Quartet: the EU (European Union), the UN (United Nations), Russia, and the United States plans to recognize a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. If the United States approves this, it will pass.

Zechariah 14:12 says: "This is the plague with which the Lord will strike all the nations that fought against Jerusalem: Their flesh will rot while they are still standing on their feet, their eyes will rot in their sockets, and their tongues will rot in their mouths."

Take Home Nugget

Although Zechariah’s words describe a nuclear war, there’s Good News. Nuclear war would be a sure sign that Jesus is coming soon! Jesus keeps believers safe from harm (1John 5:18). Believers use God’s Word (Ephesians 6:16) as drawn sword.

As this world grows darker, the promise of Jesus’ return grows brighter!

J.D. Griffith

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235 Years and Counting

235 YEARS AND COUNTING

Isaiah 65:1

“I revealed Myself to those who did not seek Me. To a nation that did not call My Name, I said, ‘Here I am, here am I.’”

Proverbs 14:34
“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people."

North and South America was inhabited for centuries before Christopher Columbus landed in 1492—519 years ago. His news of a glorious new land broadcast far and wide. People flocked to it in search of something. Many came searching for religious freedom. Others arrived curious, eager for new discoveries. Great Britain wanted to expand her empire.

Native Americans watched boat loads of people land on their shores. They continued to retreat further West, giving up and giving in. How arrogant to think that men could own land!


The settlers fought the natives to claim possession of the land’s best. They finally had enough of England butting into their business, and the Revolutionary War broke out. Victory finally emerged for these daring pioneers! A leader elected, a capitol built, a Constitution written, 1776 launched the United States of America! Could this new frontier survive as a “melting pot” experiment? Absorbing peoples from foreign lands, the U.S.A. became an experiment that had never been tried. The world watched, fascinated and drawn to her.

April 12, 2011 marked the beginning of the American Civil War, 150 years ago. This war—lasting five years and killing thousands—rose from a disagreement. “Stop slavery” the North ordered its Southern brethren. “No!” the Southern states insisted, stamping its feet.

Brother-against-brother civil war finally ended when the South surrendered, keeping the United States united.

Today the United States is a divided states of America. The “melting pot” experiment of peoples has split into angry political rivals. Constant disagreements brew, differing parties point blaming fingers at the others. The separating gap is wide and deep. Can the country that began 235 years ago (as a perfect union), celebrate its 250 anniversary in 15 years?

Now with an African-American president, one would think that the “melting pot” experiment was a success. Or is the perfect union just a dream? Founded on Christian principles, how far can the U.S.A. drift from its foundation before its foundation crumbles?

Countries in the Middle East are experiencing their own civil wars today.

Do nations require a parent to settle disputes?

Take Home Nugget

Heavenly Father, Bless the United States of America, and nations around the world who are experiencing internal problems. Forgive all our sins against You and each other. Mend our split seams. Give Your children a Spirit of cooperation. Remind us that we were created in love. Show us how to love You and each other today, we pray in Jesus’ Name. Many thanks and praise for our glorious homelands! Amen.

J.D. Griffith

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