You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life. These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life.
—John 5:39-40

My heart says of you, ‘Seek his face!’ Your face, Lord, I will seek.
—Psalm 27:8

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Double-Sided Wisdom, Singular Love
By Jennifer Kane

Two sides of a coin—
The beginning and the end.
The living Word of God,
The Word become flesh.

This love letter of scripture
Points to the One who saves.
Yet how many read these words of eternal love,
Only to coldly shut their hearts
To the One who wrote them?

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In a world where knowledge is prized, it’s sometimes easy to forget that true wisdom begins with a relationship. God’s Word is a treasure chest of wisdom, but its true value lies in how it draws us closer to Him. The Bible teaches us through contrasts—light versus darkness, faith versus works, grace versus law—helping us understand the depth and breadth of God’s wisdom. Let’s explore how to balance studying Scripture with seeking a relationship with its Author.

God has given us His Word to help us understand His will, equip us for good works, and reflect the character of Christ in our lives. Scripture is our guide for life. (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Psalm 119:105 describes the Word as “a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” God has given us His Word to help us understand His will and equip us for good works.

Yet, as Jesus warns in John 5, it is possible to study Scripture without encountering Him. The Pharisees knew the text but missed the Messiah. True wisdom doesn’t come from intellectual knowledge alone but from a heart transformed by the Author.

Jesus calls us to abide in Him: “Remain in me, as I also remain in you” (John 15:4). The Scriptures lead us to Christ, who is the Word made flesh. Eternal life isn’t found in the pages of the Bible but in the relationship with the Savior that it reveals.

Philippians 3:8 captures this well: “I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.” Studying Scripture should never replace seeking God Himself. It’s not an end but a means to knowing and glorifying Him.

reflect on your spiritual practices. Are they leading you to a deeper relationship with Christ? How can you turn your study into worship? Reflect on how much time you dedicate to Scripture study versus prayer and personal connection with God. Both are essential, but a healthy balance ensures that study leads to worship.

After reading Scripture, turn it into prayer. Thank God for His truths, ask Him for understanding, and invite Him to transform your heart. This bridges the gap between study and intimacy.

Be intentional about listening to God’s voice. James 1:5 reminds us to seek His wisdom in prayer. Trust the Holy Spirit to guide and teach you, as promised in 1 John 2:27.

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Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Word, which teaches, guides, and points us to You. Help us to study diligently, not for knowledge alone but to know You better. Let Your Word be a lamp to our feet, but let Your presence be the light of our lives. May we never substitute principles for a relationship with You. Draw us close, and let our hearts burn with the desire to seek Your face. Teach us to love You more deeply, and let Your Spirit guide us in all truth. In the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

November 19 2024