Monday, September 17, 2012
2 Timothy 3:14-15 Continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.
HOW PRECIOUS IS THE BOOK DIVINE
With the arrival of September, Sunday School, youth classes, and adult Bible studies resume in many of our churches (having been in recess during the summer). Christians, young and old alike, are afforded extra opportunities for growth in the grace and knowledge of Jesus their Savior. Our devotions this week will consist of readings from Luther's Large Catechism, where the reformer highlights the blessings that come through the study of God's Word.
From the Large Catechism (Preface):
+ "I implore you never to imagine that you have mastered the parts of Christian doctrine in the Catechism. Even if your knowledge of the Catechism were perfect (something that in this life is impossible), yet to read it daily and to make it the subject of your thinking and conversation has all manner of practical results and brings fruitful rewards. In such reading, discussion, and meditation the Holy Spirit is present to supply more light and new insights. Thus we come to relish and appreciate the Catechism better and better day by day."
+ "To occupy oneself with God's Word, talking about it and thinking about it, is a most tremendous help against the devil, the world, the flesh, and all evil thoughts. Psalm 1:2 calls those blessed who meditate on the law of the Lord day and night. It is certain that you will be offering up no incense or candles more potent against the devil than by occupying yourself with God's commandment and words, by talking of them, by singing them, and by meditating on them."
+ "Even if there were no other result or benefit, you should read the parts of Christian doctrine in the Catechism gladly and discuss, ponder, and practice them for this reason alone that thereby you can drive away the devil and evil thoughts. For he cannot stand to hear God's Word. The Word of God is not like some empty fiction, but as St. Paul says in Romans 1:16, it is "the power of God," the power, in fact, that flames out to blister the devil but to strengthen, comfort, and help us immeasurably."
Oh, may these heavenly pages be My ever dear delight;
And still new beauties may I see And still increasing light!
(The Lutheran Hymnal, 284:5)
