One of the twentieth century’s greatest biblical scholars was asked later in life what was the most important or greatest thing he had learned in his years of studying the Bible. He did not hesitate long in answering. He said in response, “Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so.”
It was interesting that he chose to state the most monumental truth of the Bible in the words of a children’s song entitled, “Jesus loves me”. I believe that the man made two points in his answer.
First he made the point that God loves sinners such as we are. Then he made the point that even a little preschooler can understand this most profound truth of Scripture as stated in a children’s song.
Occasionally those of us who have made our life’s work the study and understanding of the Bible forget that the Bible was never written for scholars. The Word of God was given to everyday, ordinary people who may never have had the privilege of going to university and getting a really fine education.
Scholars must realize that God’s truth is there for all people. Even those who cannot read their own name and who do not understand all the debates that surround Scripture are able to take to heart the most significant truths in God’s Word.
We must also remember to keep the teaching of Scripture as the window through which to look out at the world. If we only look at the world around us without the teaching of Scripture to guide us we may be very upset with life. Our idea on how the world operates must be based on the Bible or else we are lost and hopeless.
God refers to the Bible as a flashlight to shine on the path as we journey through life (Psalm 119:105). As we encounter tragedy in this life we may feel that the world is a very dark place. We try to grope our way along but keep bumping into more issues that rob us of joy and peace of heart.
This is where the message we have from our Creator makes such a great difference to us. For those of us who love the Lord and believe in Jesus, there are exceedingly great and precious promises (2 Peter 1:4) to assist us and give us light in a dark place. Without the light of the Word of God we can only fumble in darkness and despair.
Our verse today speaks of just how great God’s love is for us as shown in sending His Son to be our Saviour and deliver us from the penalty of our sin. The word mercy is used in our verse and that is especially precious. Mercy is God dealing with us in our misery. He sees our suffering and moves to lighten the load for us. His grace deals with our great need and His mercy is comfort, love, peace, and tender compassion.
It is my sincere prayer that you will experience this amazing love of God. I also pray that you will read your Bible and learn about what God will do for you as you pray in faith for His help. Get your Bible out today and look up passages that will strengthen you to conquer the challenges you face. Here are a few places to go. Matthew 11:28-30; Hebrews 13:5-6; 1 Peter 1:3-9; Psalm 23.
