Words to Draw Us Closer – Ramona Heikel

I often look at the sky and thank God for making it default to blue, my favorite color. He could have made it orange, or brown, or he could have made our world black and white. But he made it colorful—an understatement!—in the most aesthetically pleasing way.

The same is true with the different ways that God communicates. He could have used primarily natural phenomena like earthquakes, or angels with trumpets as messengers. But having loved words from a young age, I am grateful that one of his most accessible, constant, clear methods of speaking to us is his written Word, the Bible.

To pull us closer, he makes written affirmations of his love, forgiveness, power, wisdom and faithfulness.

Long ago the LORD said to Israel: "I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love. With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself.”

I led them with cords of human kindness, with ties of love. To them I was like one who lifts a little child to the cheek, and I bent down to feed them.

In the words of scripture, God honors us by helping us know him, understand the people around us, interpret history, see his kingdom on earth, have hope no matter what our circumstances, and understand his plans for the future. Somehow, just as a love letter from a human sweetheart, his words never get old or stale. The more I read and study the Bible, the more I believe in his love. The more I study God’s word, the more I know him, and have peace of mind.

Not only do I appreciate this form of communication from God, I enjoy the language. Beautiful words are energizing to my soul, and the tender poetic sections are a balm after a day spent hearing the world’s words. Consider Mary’s Song from Luke:

And Mary said:

“My soul glorifies the Lord
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has been mindful
of the humble state of his servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed,
for the Mighty One has done great things for me—
holy is his name.
His mercy extends to those who fear him,
from generation to generation.
He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
He has brought down rulers from their thrones
but has lifted up the humble.
He has filled the hungry with good things
but has sent the rich away empty.
He has helped his servant Israel,
remembering to be merciful
to Abraham and his descendants forever,
just as he promised our ancestors.”

The stories in the Bible grab my attention. Many include fully developed protagonists with well-defined goals and motivations, a formidable antagonist, suspenseful plots of political intrigue, mystery, romance, and family chronicles. Rich dialogue brings these stories alive. How much more engaging these messages are from the Almighty, compared to having nothing but a list of do’s and don’ts and proverbs.

The author of the scriptures is a gentleman. I don’t have to be on my guard against crude or offensive language, graphic violence, depressing plots and philosophies, or vulgarity, but instead can meditate on his invitation, Be still and know that I am God, and look forward to his promise: In my father’s house are many mansions…I go to prepare a place for you, so that where I am you may be also.

References: Jeremiah 31:3, Hosea 11:4, Psalms 46:10, John 14: 2-3


Posted by Ramona
www.happilywriting.com