Invaluable Thoughts

Have you ever read Homer, as in The Iliad or The Odyssey? What is their value?

Perhaps ancient epic poems are not your interest.

Did you get that? . . . Interest.

Some folks are 'interested' in Homer's writings, most are not.
Some folks love to read Shakespeare, most do not.
Some folks enjoy modern literature.
Some folks prefer the newspaper or online gossip.

For some folks, the Bible is not much different. Or you might say that some people are interested in the Bible; others are not. It is all just a matter of taste. Pickles, corn on the cob, fried chicken...taste. The Bible...just a matter of taste.

Enough said?

May be not...

What did Homer claim about his writings? What about Shakespeare and others? What was their purpose in writing? The value of their writings?

Some writings are intended to help, influence, change, or direct people. Some writings merely document personal experiences. Others are for simple enjoyment.

God expressed his thoughts with intent and expectation. He was not merely recording ideas and events that would be added to a narrowly defined category of interest. Think about this claim...

All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.
--2 Timothy 3:16-17

The Creator of mankind has the intention that His creation will possess a certain quality of character that involves doing good things. His expectation defines the purpose of a Christian and His word equips us to carry out his expectation.

Do we understand? Do we believe? 
The thoughts of God which He has revealed are able to equip us to do the very thing that God created us to do.

Yet...*sigh*...It seems unlikely that such an old writing is still relevant today. After all, things change over time, and things have really changed since ancient times. But wait...

For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
--Hebrews 4:12

From a purely human point of view the Bible is old and outdated. It stands as one volume among a vast library of literature, ancient and modern. Yet, it holds a unique position because it is living and active...still today. It changes lives...still today. It gives the ability to discern things in life without a college degree and endless research.

Do we recognize what has been given to us?
How does that affect your view of God?

God has not given mankind the 'silent treatment' but has revealed His mind! And his thoughts are invaluable!

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom;
And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.
--Proverbs 9:10

Mark Stinnett