"Love is God's Word."

Today’s topic focuses on the Bible, the greatest book of all times. Numerous accolades are attributed to it - the first book ever published, translated into more languages than any other, and the best seller ever. But more importantly, it reveals God’s plan for the world, our lives, and eternity.

Some feel the Bible is irrelevant in today’s world and so they ignore it. Others find it too difficult to understand and don’t know where or how to begin. But followers of Jesus have the Holy Spirit to help grasp the major themes and deep meanings of scripture. The Bible is ours to read, absorb, comprehend, and live by. Love Dare suggests three basic steps for experiencing the blessings of God’s Word.

Be in it. The first priority is to read the Bible daily. Those who faithfully do so can attest to what a difference it makes. If you are not in the habit of consistently reading the Bible, start now and see how it can impact your life. And to strengthen your marriage, read it regularly with your spouse, if they are willing.

Stay under it. The Bible can be profound and challenging. That’s why it is important to be part of a church where the Word is faithfully taught and preached. Hearing it explained in sermons and Bible study groups will give you a broader, more balanced view of what God is saying through His Word. Plus it allows you to join in Christian fellowship with others who are on the same journey.

Live it. Most books are designed to be read and appreciated, but the Bible is uniquely different because it is a living book. It lives because the Holy Spirit still resonates within its words. It lives because unlike writings of other religions, the author is alive. And it lives because it becomes part of who you are, how you think, and what you do. James 1:22 tells us to “not merely listen to the Word”, but to also “do what it says”.

Love Dare once again uses the parable of building a house on the sand versus rock. The takeaway is to build our marriages on the solid foundation of God’s Word. He knows our needs and reveals the path for our lives through His Word. But we only benefit from it as we read it, believe it, and apply it.

Every area of your life that you submit to God’s wisdom and guidance will grow stronger and more enduring. But anything that you hold back, choosing instead to go it on your own, will weaken and potentially fail when challenges arrive. So seek and trust in God’s Word for everything.

Wise couples build their house on the bedrock of God’s Word. They’ve seen what happens with sand and know how it feels when the footing gets soft and the foundation gives way. That is why you need the Bible as a resource for building your life and marriage. With it, your future will be stronger, no matter how bad the storms get.