James 1:22-24 NIV
[22] Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.
[23] Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror
[24] and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like.
There will always be opportunities to hear the Word of God. The Internet has made access to the bible as well as related help mostly available in most countries. For as many as would be interested, several mission outlets also have social media presence, and put out daily, weekly and periodic broadcasts that can help with knowing about God. Faith comes by hearing, and hearing the Word of God is the foundation for faith. Without faith, it has been established that it is impossible to please God. In light of all the above, if I am in a location where there is access to the Internet and study materials, I do not have an excuse not to make time to read or listen to the Word. However, the additional note of caution is that mere listening or reading is not enough; there is the additional step of doing that is critical to accessing the fullness of all that God intends for us through His Word.
How can I do the Word if I do not first read and understand its demands of and from me? How can I adequately obey the Word if i do not first have a relationship with the author and inspiration of the Word? The person who just listens and reads but does not do is like a man who is interested in knowing what s/he looks like but has no intention of changing anything. S/He has spent time seeking clarity and has seen the areas that need adjustment. The Word of God will always tell you the truth, but I have the choice of response or reaction. When the Word of God shows me who I am, I am expected to take steps to make changes where required. How can I have spent time in front of a mirror and then have nothing to show the investment of time and effort? How can I have a true encounter with the Word of God and there will be no change in my pursuits and priorities?
In this new year, there are grounds to conquer, lives to impact and destinies to fulfil. The devil is also at work, seeking to distract men from the things that are important and critical to the heart of God. God has given me all that I need for life and Godliness, and I must make full use of His provisions to impact His earth. The only material of change and impact is the Word of God. The only way to sow eternity in the hearts of men is to sow the Word of God in their hearts. Lay emphasis on obedience as much as we lay emphasis on reading the Word of God. Let it not be that I invest time and resources only on earthly impact, which is good, but also on eternal impact. There is nothing the world gives you that you can take with you into eternity. Only that which you do with the Word of God will last forever. I must make it count. I must give the Word time and space in my heart so He can lead me to eternal life. That is the end game. God's time of favour is here.
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