Asked if I know of a good book to help with (fill in the blank with anything and everything from marriage to schedules), my first response is the question, “Are you reading the Bible?”

Don’t misunderstand my question. I’m not taking the inquiry lightly nor am I suggesting that I don’t read anything other than the Bible. But too many of us are looking for a quick answer from an easy read to fix our marriages, arrange our schedules and give us the key to happiness rather than pursuing the lifelong sanctifying process of reading, studying, pondering and obeying the Word of God.

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Hebrews 4:12 NKJV)

The issues of sin that perplex and beset us are not external equations to be solved with the right formula of witty wisdom and Scripture verses. Rather they are issues within us; issues of flesh and sin warring against the inward man. And what we require is that which will invade us, discern us, reveal us, correct us, teach us, purify us and lead us – the living, active, sharp, piercing, discerning, living Word of the living God.

And that’s why my first response is, “Are you reading the Bible?” Only by being in the Word will the Word be in you, transforming you day by day, changing the way you think, how you perceive and ultimately what you do, altering how you relate to the God above you and the people around you.

How can a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to Your word.
With my whole heart I have sought You; Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments!
Your word I have hidden in my heart, That I might not sin against You.
Blessed are You, O Lord! Teach me Your statutes.
With my lips I have declared All the judgments of Your mouth.
I have rejoiced in the way of Your testimonies, As much as in all riches.
I will meditate on Your precepts, And contemplate Your ways.
I will delight myself in Your statutes; I will not forget Your word.
(Psalm 119:9–16 NKJV)

Abide in the Word that the Word may abide in and sanctify you.