Finding Delight in the Word of God
Finding Delight in the Word of God was written by Rosann Coulon
I steal a glimpse of my husband’s face. The creases in his cheeks fold into a well-worn pattern that has developed over the years. I admire the smile that first captivated my heart so long ago. Chuckling, his eyes light up while he watches his latest favorite TV show, all about restoring antique cars to their former glory.
Periodically, a “hmm” or “wow” escapes his lips as the show’s hosts reveal their findings or explain a process. By the end, my spouse’s head shakes in amazement at the revelation of the finished product. My husband is so enthralled during the program’s airing that I know there’s no point in trying to hold a conversation with him. I let him enjoy it and move on to something else.
Let’s get honest for a moment: we wish reading the Bible would excite and enthrall us to the point where nothing around us distracts or pulls us away. We want it to be as interesting as watching our favorite TV show.
Spending Time in the Word Sparks a Desire for More
The good news is that the Word of God is not short-term entertainment or a fleeting fix for our imaginations. It is lasting, grounding, and nurturing for our souls (Matthew 4:4)––and a desire for searching the Scriptures is something that we can cultivate.
Perhaps the Psalmist understood the tendency to flail when approaching the Word. So he prayed the heartfelt words for God to “open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law” (Psalm 119:18). I find myself praying the same prayer. I want to experience the marvelous blessings of God’s Word.
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Truly, if God opens our eyes, we will see amazing things: truth revealed, light shining through the darkness, increased wisdom and understanding, and most importantly––we will see Jesus! Beholding the Word reveals our Savior as a mighty overcomer (John 16:33), provider (Psalm 23:1), guide (Psalm 23:3), protector (Psalm 46:1), and our peace despite difficult circumstances (Ephesians 2:14).
Yes, it’s marvelous to see junk transformed into a masterpiece as my husband loves to watch on TV. Yet spending time in the presence of almighty God––studying His letters to us––is incomparable to observing an antique Ford restored.
Blessedly, the investment of reading the Bible stirs our heart’s desire for more of the Word as the Holy Spirit works to renew our minds and transform our hearts. It has a far greater return than any other activity in this life because it strengthens our faith, extends hope to us, and offers us comfort for life’s journey (Psalm 19:7; 2 Timothy 3:16-17). Oh, what a delight it is!
Cultivating a Desire for the Word of God
Are you struggling to find delight in spending time in Scriptures? Here are some tips to cultivate a desire for God’s Word:
- Consider beginning with one book of the Bible to read from beginning to end.
- Ask God which book He would like you to focus on first.
- Pray for the Holy Spirit to reveal Himself to you while you read the book.
- Study the author of the book, setting, who it’s written to, and the precepts that are covered.
- Journal passages that stand out to you.
- Write down what God reveals to you through the passages.
- Make it personal by choosing to respond to the Word in your daily life.
The wonder and beauty of the Word of God is beyond comprehension. Let’s stir a desire for more time in Scriptures by saying the prayer below as we ask God to ignite our hearts to know, see, and follow Christ with great delight.
Related Post: 2 Unexpected Results from Daily Bible Reading
A Prayer for Delight in the Word
Dear Lord, open our eyes to the wonders of your Word. Let my heart yearn for more of You. Help me see Your ways and follow Your path. I marvel at the work that You do in, and for me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
It’s Your Turn
Do you find yourself eager to spend time in the Scriptures? What have you found that helps you stay in the Word? Tell us the next step you will take to cultivate delight in the Bible.
About the Author
Rosann Coulon
Rosann Coulon is the author of 40 Days to God, My Father: Finding Shelter in the Heart of God. She has contributed articles to The Gospel Coalition, The Daily Grace Co., Family Life, and other publications. She is the founder of Leaving a Well Ministries, whose mission is to share biblical hope with hurting hearts by providing Christ-centered resources. Visit her at LeavingAWell.com to receive free inspirational content. You can also connect with her on Instagram @Rosann_Coulon.
