May 20th Devotion

A Prayer to Love God’s Word
By Kristine Brown

“Jesus answered, ‘It is written: Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” - Matthew 4:4 NIV

I’ve heard it said that the Bible is God’s love letter to us. His love for us reaches so deep, he gave his most precious gift – his Son – so we could have eternal life with him.

God’s Word expresses that deep love in verse after verse. But the truth is, some of those verses are harder to accept than others. We make a commitment to try and read the Bible every day but stop short. We struggle when we get to those parts we’d rather skip over. Because some of what God has to say makes us feel uncomfortable.

God is a good Father to us. And good parents provide for their children. They love and cherish them, knowing at times those children will do things they shouldn’t do. Things that are bad for them. In love, the parent will offer correction that’s sometimes hard to hear. In a huff, a child may even question her parent’s love. But the love of a mom or dad runs deep. They’re willing to do whatever it takes to guide their most precious gifts on the right path.

In the same way, God’s love for us reaches beyond what we can imagine. His love letter wouldn’t be complete without the kind of love that keeps us safe and away from sin. Hebrews 12:2 teaches us this truth, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”'

As we draw closer to God, we will understand this love and in turn develop a love for reading his Word. We will realize the meaning of Jesus’ words when he spoke saying we wouldn’t live on bread alone, but on every word God gave us. (Matthew 4:4)

Loving to read the Bible can be a struggle at first. But as we commit to spending time reading it and seeking to hear his voice through the pages, we will feel that longing in our spirits. We will develop an indescribable love for God’s Word. Let’s pray right now and ask God to help us develop a love for the Bible.

Dear Heavenly Father,
Isaiah 40:8 says, “The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.” This beautiful verse shows us how precious your Word is. We come to you in prayer today and ask for your help developing a love for that Word. We know we can trust every verse written in it.

Thank you for giving us the Bible as an expression of your unending love for us. Forgive us Lord for not reading it more often. Sometimes we let distraction get in the way or put it off until tomorrow. But we come to you with renewed commitment today, because we know as we read about your love, we will in turn grow in the love we have for more of your Truth.

Lord, your son Jesus taught us the importance of your Word. He said, “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4) Let your Holy Spirit give us a hunger for more time reading, praying, and seeking truth. May that hunger fuel a deeper love for the Bible.

Thank you Father for loving us so much that you provided guidance for us in the form of a love letter. May we never take it for granted. Thank you for your Word, your mercy, and your love.