Having just returned from a gathering where a poll was taken to see how many present do the daily readings, we were horrified to learn that only 10 percent of the brethren present regularly do the daily readings. Christadelphians are no longer the people of the Book. Not only should we do the daily readings, but we should study God’s Word and meditate on it and even memorize chapters of it if possible. Perhaps we should make a new year’s resolution to that effect.
Daily readings should begin when we first study for baptism. The Bereans, “were more noble than those of Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether these things were so. (Acts 17:11) The Bible is so basic to our learning the Truth, that it is spoken of as the seed. (1 Pet. 1:23).
Our need for daily reading and meditation on God’s Word does not stop at baptism. Psalm 1:1-3 says the man is happy who delights in the law of the LORD, adding, “in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season, his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” It is interesting that such a one is like a tree planted by the rivers of water since water symbolizes the word of God. (Eph. 5:26) This shows there is no way to catch up with our readings. Reading sporadically is like a flood on parched ground. Water gives life to plants and makes it possible for them to bring forth fruit. Galatians 5:22-3 says, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” A plant with no water dies; a plant with a little water grows, but never yields fruit; a plant with regular watering brings forth fruit in due season.
One reason Bible reading, meditation and memorization is necessary is because without faith it is impossible to please God. (Heb. 11:6) “Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” (Rom. 10:17) Hence, without the Bible in our hearts and minds, we will not have the faith necessary for salvation.
All of us want God to answer our prayers, but why should He listen to us if we do not listen to His Word? “He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination.” (Prov. 28:9).
For a new year’s resolution we should all spend more time in God’s Word. If it is not our habit to do the daily readings, we should resolve to do them. If we are in the 10 percent who do the daily readings, we should try to study prophecy and meditate or even memorize scripture so we can rebuke the devil as Jesus did in the wilderness by quoting scripture. There is room for improvement in almost every one.
The Origin of the Organic World – Part One