Who is most important?

His delight is in the law of the Lord . . . He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water. — Psalm 1:2-3

During an operation, an experienced surgeon asked a young intern, “Who is the most important person in this operating room?”

The intern searched for an appropriate answer. He didn’t believe that his mentor was asking for personal compliments, so trying to sound gracious he replied, “I suppose that it would be these nurses who assist you in such an efficient manner.”

The surgeon shook his head and said, “No, the most important individual in this room is the patient.”

It’s possible to overlook the obvious in studying the Bible too. It’s easy to forget how important you are in the process. Whether or not you find profit depends on your attitude.

What’s the right attitude to bring to Bible study? First approach the Bible with a sense of your own need, not just to teach it to someone else. Second, approach the Bible with humility. Don’t try to make it say what you would like it to say, but study to discover what God has said.

German theologian Johann Bengel (1687-1752) said, “Be like a maker of a well who brings no water to his source but allows the water he finds there to flow freely without stoppage, diversion, or defilement.” Those who do that will grow like trees, “planted by the rivers” (Ps. 1:3). — Haddon Robinson

Afraid to see what’s in God’s Book?

It’s meant for you, don’t fail to look.

The words and thoughts contained therein

Will bring God’s peace and cleanse from sin. — Beals

READ: Psalm 1

Bible study is meant not merely to inform but to transform.

The Bible in one year:

• Deuteronomy 1-3