The Book That Changes Lives

“Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” - John 17:17

Books are an important part of my life. While I may read books of fiction from time to time, I spend most of my time reading non-fiction books. A surprising number of people have never read a book since graduating from high school. I guess they never gained a passion for reading. For them, reading is like paying taxes --- something only done under compulsion.

Books have a way of instructing and inspiring people. Certainly books can entertain, bringing hours and hours of enjoyment. Sadly, we've traded great books for mediocre movies.

I have books that I treasure so much that I read them repetitively. Since I travel a great deal daily to and from work, I also listen to audio-books. I found this to be a rewarding experience.

Yet there is one book that is more precious than the others. This book sits beside my bed. When I am home, I keep it within arm's reach nearly all the time. This book is the Bible.

The Bible is God's Word. It is a book of books. Within its pages, you'll find history, adventure, biographies, poetry, prophecy, inspiration, instruction and guidance.

While praying to the Father in John chapter 17, Jesus made this powerful request: “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” From this verse, I want us to glean two important facts about God's Word.

1.  GOD'S WORD IS TRUTH

Jesus said, “thy word is truth.” While it is true that the Bible contains truth, it is more than that. The Word IS truth. The reason the Bible is under constant attack from the enemy is that the devil hates the truth. The devil is a liar and the father of lies. Satan is a deceiver, thus he resists the truth. That is why the Bible is under assault in America. First, it was removed from our schools. Then it was removed from public places. The devil wishes to have it removed from homes and churches. He hates the truth is fighting against it fiercely.

Also, notice how the devil tries to keep you from the Word. He makes it difficult for you to spend quality time in the Word daily. He tries to derail your efforts in attending church so you can hear the Word. The reason for all this opposition is to keep you from the truth. Those who are ignorant of the truth are easily misled by lies. Be assured that this spiritual war is real, personal and costly.

The Word of God is truth.

2.  GOD'S WORD WILL TRANSFORM

Secondly, we learn that God's Word transforms lives. Jesus prayed, “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” It is the Word that sanctifies believers. We are set apart and made holy through the power of the Word. The Word changes lives.

That is why the preaching of the Word is so vital. Lives are changed by the continual preaching of the Word. Personal Bible reading and study is so important because we are changed by the very Word we read daily. That is why it is important to be faithful to Christ in our relationships, because the very Word that changes our lives may change those around us as well.

The Reader's Digest doesn't changes lives. Neither does National Geographic, the TV guide or Sports Illustrated. Furthermore, books like “Moby-Dick,” “Little Women,” or “Pride and Prejudice” won't make an eternal impact in the lives of readers. However, the Bible does make an eternal difference.

It is one thing to possess a Bible, it is another thing for the Bible to possess you. I challenge you to read your Bible daily. Sit under good Gospel preaching each week. The Bible will change your life. It is the truth. When you know the truth intimately, it is easy to spot deceit and lies. Read the truth. Believe the truth. Live by the truth. Have an open heart as you open your Bible.

The Bible is the book that changes lives … and it can change yours today.