How Can We Believe?

“How can you believe every word in the Bible?” 

This question was asked of an old missionary by some theology students years ago. Using a relatable illustration, the old missionary began to respond.

He told his listeners that whenever they traveled, they prepared according to what is printed on the train schedule. If it says the train departs at a certain time, then they arrive at the station at the specified time and find the train waiting. They don’t make any other inquiries or disputes; they accept the information as printed.

The missionary continued, saying that he has lived a similar approach when it comes to the Bible. When he reads its directions and God’s promises, he doesn’t make any other inquiries or disputes. He accepts God’s Word as printed and they have always proven to be true.

This advice still applies to us today. We can read the Bible—God’s love letter to us—accepting what it says and live according to God’s standard. In 2018, we have advantages at the tips of our fingers that missionary of old never had. For instance, the Bible is accessible, and sometimes even free, in printed and digital formats There are Bible websites and countless apps for tablets and smartphones. At the touch of a button, the words can be translated into multiple forms of the English language and numerous other languages as well.

Though we have bibles so readily available to us, we struggle to believe what it says. We wrestle because of the doubts and questions that God’s enemy uses to taunt us and distract us from God.

Here are some tips to help us believe every word in the Bible.

• Ask God to help us. Ask Him to open our eyes, ears, and mind to see more of Him. Read a verse or passage a number of times, pausing to think and reflect each time.
• Reduce distractions. We may want to lessen or even eliminate some of what pulls us away from God. There may be certain forms of entertainments, foods, habits and more, that we need to release in order to stay focused on God.
• Believe the words. When we read a promise, accept it. Personalize it in prayer. When we go throughout the day, look for how God is keeping His promise.