a love for scripture

The B I B L E, that's the book for me!  I stand upon the word of God, the B I B L E!  As children we sang this song.  I'm curious how many generations of children sang that song.  There is something resident in that affirmation, namely:  That's the book for Me.  There appears to be a growing chasm between those who have a love for Scripture and those who do not.  Even though the Bible is more available than ever (online, software, e-books, phones, print, etc), there appears to be less reading, studying and thinking about the message of Scripture.  Although I think about this constantly, I'm not sure of the reasons why.  I suppose the abundance and availability of Scripture causes believers to take it for granted.  I also would guess that the message of the Gospel (Romans 10:9-10, Philippians 2:1-10) has been rehearsed and presented through so many different venues that there is a subtle familiarity that breeds contempt among the people of God. 

In contrast to this spiritual neuroses, the Scripture makes great claims about its usefulness. Hover your mouse of the references and see the depth and breadth with which the Bible references itself on the claims that it makes. 

Matt. 21:42; 22:29; 26:54, 56; Mark 12:10, 24; 14:49; 15:28; Luke 4:21; 24:27, 32, 45; John 2:22; 5:39; 7:38, 42; 10:35; 13:18; 17:12; 19:24, 28, 36–37; 20:9; Acts 1:16; 8:32, 35; 17:2, 11; 18:24, 28; Rom. 1:2; 4:3; 9:17; 10:11; 11:2; 15:4; 16:26; 1 Cor. 15:3–4; Gal. 3:8, 22; 4:30; 1 Tim. 4:13; 5:18; 2 Tim. 3:16; James 2:8, 23; 4:5; 1 Pet. 2:6; 2 Pet. 1:20; 3:16

Consider the passion in the statement of these translators to the New American Standard Bible (NASB) about their work
New American Standard Bible (1995 Update) - Scriptural Promise
The New American Standard Bible has been produced with the conviction that the words of Scripture as originally penned in the Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek were inspired by God. Since they are the eternal Word of God, the Holy Scriptures speak with fresh power to each generation, to give wisdom that leads to salvation, that men may serve Christ to the glory of God.

Paul encouraged Timothy to "fan into flame the gift of God" (2 Timothy 1:6)   We have His word.  Let's do our part in setting the world on fire with His message. Praise God! 

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