The Bible certainly is inspiring and uplifting – for it tells us about God and His love for us. Could anything be more encouraging? As the Bible says, “God loved us, and through his grace he gave us a good hope and encouragement that continues forever” (2 Thessalonians 2:17, NCV).

But the Bible isn’t just inspiring; it’s also inspired – that is, God gave it to us and guided the authors by His Spirit as they wrote. In other words, the Bible isn’t just the words of men – it’s the Word of God, because God directed its writing. The word the Bible uses for “inspired” literally means “breathed out” – that is, God “breathed out” or spoke His words, and they have been recorded for us in the pages of the Bible.

When you read the Bible, therefore, you are reading God’s message to us. Think of it – God has spoken to us! Can you think of anything more encouraging – as well as challenging? How can we ignore it? The Bible says, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16).

Don’t remain a stranger to the Bible any longer, but make it part of your life every day. Most of all, don’t remain a stranger to God, but by faith open your heart to the One who is the center of the Bible’s message: Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.