Text: Psalm 119:105-128, 1 Thessalonians 2:13, 2 Timothy 2:8-9
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the [wo]man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.
(2 Timothy 3:16-17, ESV, brackets mine)
This passage in 2 Timothy paints the Bible as a sort of Swiss Army knife for believers – every essential tool we need, right here in our pockets. And, in a very real sense, that’s true. God’s Word is living and powerful and it never fails, and as women of the Word we praise God for it. But have you ever wondered if God’s Word has any value outside of the Church?
In the boundless world of the internet, with its countless users sharing countless opinions, the conversation is ever-going: Is the Bible even relevant anymore? Are we really still taking orders from a thousands-year-old text? The fundamentalists and the progressives, the evangelicals and the post-evangelicals, those on the left and right and in the middle all toss in their two cents. And when the dull roar of the crowd seems especially loud, we may find ourselves tucking the Book’s leather cover out of plain sight – not necessarily embarrassed, but maybe feeling something akin to it… Confused, conflicted or just plain tired?
This is when we need to hear the Spirit-inspired words of our Brother, the apostle Paul, rise loudly above the crowd:
For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes… (Romans 1:16)
For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. (1 Corinthians 1:18)
Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, the offspring of David, as preached in my gospel, for which I am suffering, bound with chains as a criminal. But the word of God is not bound! (2 Timothy 2:8-9, emphasis mine)
Sisters, this Word is not just for us. This Word is for your boss and my neighbor, my cousin and your friend. This Word is for the world.
Has the Bible endured and is it enduring? One thousand times, yes! Truth is truth, in any language. Heart-wounds need healing and souls need freeing in every single country on this spinning globe – so thank God His Word is not bound! It is not governed by time or geography, not subject to our circumstances or even our understanding. The Story of Stories is not bound. Period.
May we grow to believe this even more and, by God’s grace, may we never be ashamed. Amen.
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101 thoughts on "it is enduring"
Lord, may we always be equipped in our hearts and minds with the truth of your word daily!
God, you are more than just a commodity, you are everything!
May we never be ashamed. Amen.
I think it’s not just about social media, it’s about living a life reflective of the gospel. Part of the reason people get frustrated with social media sharing is because those same people don’t always see the real life application of it. Gods word stands on its own, but we must be careful not to get in the way…if that makes sense.
You’re all so inspiring and so correct! This text will always be relevant, that’s why it is our guide in life. I always think about the generations to come. How will the bible interact in their lives?!
Social media and such a powerful tool nowadays and often times it is used the wrong way. I share daily my devotions, scripture and what God is doing in my life. I have been scolded, mocked and made fun of because of my sharing. But I will not stop because I am not ashamed, because God’s word is powerful and because so many are in need of the salvation God has to offer. We are living in a dying world and we know the One who offers LIFE! We must not back down when it comes it His word.
You go, April! God’s word is always worthy of preaching!
I see God working in my heart and mind. This morning I was recalling how much I loved these short songs in this praise book when I was a teen. And here tonight I come across several of the verses those songs are from.
He is truly our shield and the Bible our sword. God’s love and word is enduring and consistent and I am singing and rejoicing in that!
Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp for my feet,
a light on my path.
109 Though I constantly take my life in my hands, I will not forget your law.
114 You are my refuge and my shield;
I have put my hope in your word.
125 I am your servant; give me discernment
that I may understand your statutes.
All these things I send up prayers of thanks, and petitions for strength.
Absolutely love this read! Such good stuff. Loveeee Roman 1:16 and I’m becoming more and more bold about having the Word all over my social media. I encourage you to post everything in love
WOW. This is so true! I love how SRT puts it exactly how everyone in this word does. “Are we really listening to 1000 year old text?” That is the one sentence rant stood out to me. My answer to that is yes, yes we are. And I’m not ashamed at all. Because God’s word lives forever and always will.
We read the truth. That is exactly why this awesome app is called She Reads TRUTH. Because God’s word, bible, sword is 100% true!
I couldn’t have said it better Caroline!!
I may be late to the game but I found this app on Pinterest and I couldn’t be happier. This plan is the first one I have done and I am so glad. God’s word is astounding! I am so glad I have this body of sisters to connect with!
This Plan is giving me sooooo much more insight into the Bible!! Some of these points I have never even thought about!
Thanks for joining us, Gracie! So glad you are in our community!
xoxo-Kaitlin
I am unashamed of the GOSPEL!
I have been in a dark place recently, feeling depressed and at times crying myself to sleep, this is a very odd thing because I am typically a happy go Lucky, funny outgoing person, but it seems that when the lights go out and no one is around I am alone and feel like I’m not fulfilling my calling although I am unclear what that is. This bible study is helping me read the words but feeling the enduring words is hard.
Praying for you Susie!
Praying for you, Susie.
Praying for you tonight! You posted 3 months ago. Are you doing any better?
I can be ashamed of the Bible or even just being a Christian in general but I am trying. I really liked this study cause over and over it said not to be ashamed. God is so good!
You are not alone Lindsay! I’m kinda new to my relationship with God and defining myself as a Christian. Sometimes I get nervous as to what others will think if I disclose that I am Christian or if I talk about God with them. But what I started telling myself, and partly just realized now, is that my relationship with Him has saved me. He is so good, I agree! And He makes us so alive. So why choose to miss an opportunity to share that kind of happiness and peace?! I try not to anymore. And in regards to what others may think? It does not matter. God knows what is in our hearts and despite others misunderstanding us for identifying as Christian, we should not let that change how we identify. God is within us, as we are in Him; He is a part of us. So why deny part of ourselves to please others? We need only please God and we will find all the joy and tranquility we could ever imagine, and more :)
I am with both of you ladies! I am also new to my relationship with God. Sometimes I too am ashamed of talking about Him with friends or family, and then I realize that the only One who truly matters is Him. I wonder if it is a coincidence that this morning I saw verse Psalm 119:105 on Instagram and when I opened up the app for today’s reading, I saw the exact same verse. :)
Couldn’t help but shout an “AMEN!” when reading 2 Timothy 2:9, “…The word of God is not bound.” HALLELUJAH!
Something I loved in this study was Psalm 119:127-128. “I love Your law more than pure gold.” WOW. It got me thinking about the “pure gold” in my life- things that seem so much more satisfying to my flesh than the ultimate satisfaction of Christ. What a place to be, when you value the Words of Christ rather than what you want.
Im sometimes ashamed of the gospel. Im trying not to be. Im scared of being judged. But the only person i should be worried about judging me is God.
I agree with heather! I use to hate being in bible studies, because everyone else always seemed to know so much about the bible. It was discouraging. But as I’ve grown, I’m yearning for Him more. And I’m realizing I need a relationship with Him more than I need to compare myself to others. ;) and you can always learn something new everyday!
Thanks!
Can anyone tell me how to delete things that I have bookmarked? Thank you
If you swipe the bookmark left on your screen a delete option appears
I often find myself “tucking away” Gods word, not because I’m ashamed of it, but because I’m ashamed of how much I don’t know about it. Of course, these studies help, but I need to make it an everyday priority to study and know it better.
Ooo yes!!! I hear you!! It can be overwhelming sometimes and scary.
I just try to remind myself that God is so pleased with us when we turn to his word.
:)
I couldn’t agree more. I’ve came to Christianity lasted than most of my friends and often feel inadequate in discussions. Slowly learning a little more about it through my reading/praying/studying. Keep at it :)
I felt the same way until I realized it was my pride I was holding onto. Being vulnerable, asking questions gives us that opportunity to grow. Don’t be ashamed of “lack of knowledge” , we are here to be taught. It is admirable and encouraging to see believers step out in eagerness to learn because they can truly admit to Christ “I want to know more about you Lord!”
His Word passed on to those HE places in my life will endure after I’m gone. This focus helps me be bolder!
Wow! This is so comforting Gods Word endures forever even amidst our trials and circumstances His love is still strong!
Being in secular college is often tough. In a new province, new city, you don’t exactly want to isolate yourself more than you already are. I ask for prayer, that I may have peace and courage instead of shame and quietness. My friends need Him as much as I do.
Praying for you & friends.(:
Live unashamed! 116 anthem. If we trust that God’s word is consistent, than we can dwell on the fact that everything that occurs in our life is intentional and we can trust that although we may not understand on the moment, we know that God is working within us.
I find so much comfort in knowing that God’s word will never fail!
Wow “Gods word never fails” that’s so powerful!!
“For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing…” This is what breaks my heart the most – when a lost person doesn’t see how or why I still live by this ancient book. But it IS enduring – it is always applicable. It is always speaking to me. It is always current and relevant. Nothing else has stood the test of time like God’s word!
This devo really helped me today. I love psalm 119. It made me sing. He is our shield! The word is enduring and never changes and living. It breathes life into the believer. I’m rejoicing with truth! :)
Romans 1:16 struck me this morning. It truly amazes me how unashamed Paul was in preaching the gospel. I struggle with this in my own life. Not so much being ashamed but in how to start a conversation about it. 90% of those around me are not believers. I struggle with opening up about my faith, about how to start a conversation. My worst fear is that I come off as condemning, and that is not my intention at all. Those around me are very defensive and every time I do open up about my faith, they disagree or the subject gets changed. Is this normal, does anyone else struggle here? Sisters please pray for me that I may perservere!
Hi Stephanie… Yes, many times I share the Good News with family and friends, and I get a sense of frustration~ because I don’t understand why they receive Gods word as a nuisance. They respectfully listen with a “please hurry up with your conversation, I don’t really want to hear this,” type of look. I often find myself praying and asking God to please soften their hearts, and show them he is… I’ve learned that sometimes you can show them Gods truth by your walk.~As they see his light shine through you.
~Our father Stephanie and I thirst for your guidance and ask your Holy Spirit to speak through us, as we share your word with our family and friends. Please give us a humble heart to guide people to your word and the understanding that your light will shine through us.~Your grace is sufficient. In Jesus name I pray, Amen
Prayers that I will be lead back to The Lord. I have been feeling distant lately, and I really want to find my way back.
I’ll be praying for you Alyssa, I believe that it is normal to go through ups and downs and “lulls” in our faith. what matters to God is our consistency to Him and His Word. Keep doing your devotional, and try to get in some Bible reading everyday- even if for only a minute! I’ve been in your position, things will turn around ;)
Praying for you, Alyssa! Continuing to study scripture and engage with a community of believers is definitely a wonderful thing! I agree with, Ginna. We all struggle at times. Just remember God’s strength is much greater than our own! And He is so faithful. You can get through this.
The 2:13 struck me. Truly believing it is the word of god and not the words of men is something I struggle with.
I too struggle with this sometimes and the more I read the less I struggle. Cause the more I read the louder His voice is speaking into my life…
I struggle with this too but as Aisha also said I also find that reading the Word of God more and offering up my struggles to The Lord honestly and asking Him to guide me to Him (even if I still don’t understand everything in the Bible) I begin the hear His voice in my mind and heart when those fears arise. Another reminder that we face similar struggles, doubts and fears! A simple prayer I pray: “I believe Lord, help my unbelief.”
Made my heart leap! Praise God his word is enduring and not bound!
Amen, amen, amen!!! So thankful to have something that is not perishing to cling to when the whole world around us seems to be crumbling.
Amen, Janice! Love that! Thanks for joining us!
xoxo-Kaitlin for She Reads Truth
This just makes me think today, with the sad passing of dear actor Robin Williams, how many are without hope? How many turn to things of this world that will never satisfy? Sisters, if we do not share the Word, how will they hear??? We must not be ashamed, but be bursting with joy and wanting to tell all who are in ears reach from us everyday of His amazing love and what He has done for us!
Very encouraging for me today! He is victorious!
God’s word is forever and the word never changes with time. Despite some of the negative things that happen with time, I will never be ashamed or afraid to proclaim the word of God.
Amen, sister! Thanks for sharing with us today!
xoxo-Kaitlin for She Reads Truth
“But God’s Word is not chained.” Such an amazing and powerful statement!
For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. (1 Corinthians 1:18)
I love this verse and what really sticks out to me is the word choice. “Who are being saved…” is key to our salvation! It’s not us who have BEEN saved, but us who are continuously being saved EVERY DAY!! The Bible and His Word is enduring which means His gift of salvation endures. What a glorious gift that is!
The gospel is the power of God!
For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes… (Romans 1:16) that really hit me. We should not be ashamed of our love for Christ and his love for us. Like that song “Rooftops” says from the rooftops we should proclaim that we are his!
and preaching the gospel was even harder for Paul than it is for us. it seems like the ancient world was more Godly than ours, but the Bible focuses on A FEW. the majority of people on the earth were NOT Godly. this book makes examples of those few who we’e. if anything, the truth was even more hidden from the world when Paul wrote those words than it is now. remember, before he became one, he killed Christians for their belief. we risk mockery, perhaps, or weird glances or loss of friendship. and yet somehow that’s still so scary. i pray God to give me the strength to overcome those shallow & superficial fears–to be bold like Paul and like David. to help me remember the way was never easy. it was never meant to be.
Amen
"Heart-wounds need healing and souls need freeing in every single country on this spinning globe – so thank GOD His Word is not bound!"
Amen! I've been to foreign shores and I've seen hurt in my own backyard…the Word of God is needed everywhere by everyone. I pray that we would boldly and lovingly proclaim it!
I love how you worded this! So true!
Truth is The Truth, in any language!!! AMEN!
Sorry I meant “The Queen James Bible”
EssieJean,
You’re so correct! That’s the “postmodern era” belief system that everyone can choose their own truths and beliefs because there’s no such thing as absolute truth. Those lies are contrary to what the Bible says! Several of the self-help based talk shows entertain their viewers but unbeknownst to the audience these deceptive lies are being webbed into the airwaves & the souls of many people. Ladies, please be aware of these demonic principalities not just on TV but in our society in general! For example, there’s a bible out for queens (yes gays). Are any if you aware that pedophiles are fighting for rights saying they were born as such and should have the same rights as gays & lesbians? Several psychologists, medical professionals and others are supporting this pedophile rights movement. I’m not judging anyone and praying that all who practice ungodliness will come to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior; I just wanted to give some examples of what, EssieJean, had stated.
praise the lord. went to see, son of god ,at the movie theater last nite. it was awesome, and took a unsaved friend. she asked i don't know if there is a god. i respond if you really are sincere about knowing if god is real . just ask him, he will tell you. her response was a smile and silence. pray that the lord will draw near to her. gods word is true.
How the tears just flowed down with this one. “Truth is truth in any language.” May we never be ashamed of this amazing life giving gospel. Share it with everyone you know!
Amen, friend.
There is a pervasive lie in our society that there is no such thing as "absolute truth" – that we each have our own "truth" that we must be allowed to listen to and believe in, and if our "personal truth" doesn't match someone else's, we should respect them by not forcing our truth on them.
The enemy of our souls is so cunning to have brought this lie into our lives, but the Bible is so clear that it is the only constant Truth that may be relied upon. When we believe a truth as wonderful as this, how can we keep silent about it?!
If we truly respect others, how can we allow them to go on believing lies by being so silent about the Truth ourselves?
As I've been recognizing more and more the true reality of our situation, and how many of Satan's lies are easily believed by us even without us recognizing it, a song keeps coming to my mind concerning the sin and oppression I see, and more so the revival I am praying for in my school and in my generation called Lies (Rebellion) by Arcade Fire. The first lyrics relate so much: "Sleeping is giving in, no matter what the time is." The time is always changing, but sleeping– this belief and acceptance of lies– has always, are, and will always have power if we don't open up our eyes and cling to the only true Light, that being the Word of God. Another song by them, Wake Up, goes along with this theme as well.
"Accept, Lord, the willing praise of my mouth, and teach me your laws. Though I constantly take my life in my hands, I will not forget your law. The wicked have set a snare for me, but I have not strayed from your precepts. Your statutes are my heritage for ever; they are the joy of my heart. My heart is set on keeping your decrees to the very end." –Psalm 119:108-112
Sisters, pray for me today. I see the traps my enemy has set; I already see how I've fallen in. Pray that I'd see God's light fresh and anew today and that His truth would be made known among all these lies.
praying for you girl . keep looking up. greater is he in you then he that is in the world. gods word is true.
Continuing to pray for you!!!
His Word is a lamp to your feet. It is good that you have seen the traps, for now you know which way to walk. And if, my friend, if you step into that snare, the Cross you bear is the key that unlocks any chain that is placed upon you. I pray for you now, that the Fire of His Word, burn so brightly, that you see clearly the path He has chosen for you to walk on. That you see each trap and avoid it. That you find comfort in the warmth of Its glow and feel His Presence around you as He drapes His Robe over your shoulders. You are His Child – He has welcomed you home – He has given you the best robe and the family ring. He is preparing a great feast for you – a celebration feast including the fattened calf. He will not leave you my friend – no matter what you do or where you go. He will not abandon you – regardless of what direction you walk in. That Lamp at your feet will tell you which way to go – to the left or to the right. He is with you always my friend. As guide or comforter – as lamp or robe. He is with you always my friend….
Thank you Jesus that my eyes have been opened to the truth of your ever living word. An anchor in a sea of opinion and deception. Praise God!!!
Loved v8 – But God's Word is not chained! We may feel hindered, even chained sometimes to this world, to our circumstances, even to our sin, but sisters this is not do. Our God and His word, which is our very life, can not be chained, cannot be hindered, cannot be stopped! And is always, always working, moving, alive, active. And will never, never return void and will always, always accomplish that for which He sends it! What hope and comfort and encouragement this gives me today! Much love sisters!
PRAISE YOU JESUS!!!! Your word is alive!!!
Oh, that this verse could be my legacy – Psalm 119:111: "Your testimonies are my heritage forever, for they are the joy of my heart."
God's word will stand forever. May it remain and become even more part of my heritage, my background, my DNA. May his word be the joy of my heart. And may I share it widely through my words and actions, so that others can stake this same forever claim to the gospel message.
Yes! Let His heritage, his story, become ours! Become even more apart of our DNA, just as you said.
This message is so timely and exactly what we’ve been talking about at church and at small group. Praise The Lord that his truth is truth forever and for everyone. I pray that his word would be the sword that pieces between joint and marrow of believers and unbelievers alike to soften hearts and reveal himself. Such a good word this morning!
I am just going to repost Candace's post today, I can't say it any better.
It doesn't matter if the entire world says the Word of God is not true…that doesn't make it so! It will stand forever! It never changes, never weakens, and is always The Same. ♥
Amen
Drshanwalks, so true “Nothing new is under the sun…”
Amen&Amen!!!
Truth is always truth! I have said this countless times to my son who is struggling with some very difficult life lessons. The world we live in is not as God created it and as a result we all suffer including believers. The world presses us to accept sin as the norm and criticizes those who hold to truth. While God calls us to hold to truth He also teaches us to love others. Loving and accepting others is not the same as accepting their beliefs or behaviors. We are called to hold to the truth of God which can't be changed, it's a constant. In the craziness of life with all the pressure to conform I am more thankful to God each day for His unwavering word and His absolute truth. She Reads Truth – what a perfect name for an outstanding study. Hold on sisters – truth endures and so must we!
I have had this same conversation with my daughters time and time again. What I really want them to understand is Yes, society has changed, out culture has changed, but God's Word has not.. And I like how you referred to His Word as a constant. That is so important for our young people to understand. Just because the world around them has changed doesn't mean that what God says about these things are still true. His Word does not roll with the tide, it is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.
Amen Linda! My generation and society as a whole quickly passes off the bible, calling it outdated and useless– but this is just a lie planted by the enemy. I've come to believe in God's word as the only truly real thing in this existence. The more things change, the more they stay the same– "new" events, "new" movements, "new" belief systems may be around, but they all just recite the same timeless theme of a frail and broken mankind needing healing and a new perception that only their creator can provide.
It doesn't matter if the entire world says the Word of God is not true…that doesn't make it so! It will stand forever! It never changes, never weakens, and is always The Same. ♥
Amen, Candace. No matter if the whole world screams it isn't true… that will not stop it from being so. I love how God's word– how His love– endures ALL things, even extreme hate and disdain for the gospel.
Amen, Amen, Amen! The world does not define the Word.
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday today & forever”. Thank You LORD.
I love the word picture of His Word as a Swiss army knife of sorts. Everything we need is in it – and everything EVERYONE needs is in it as well – saved or not. His Word has endured, and will endure. AMEN!
Whoohoo!!! If Paul had known about Swiss Army Knives, maybe he would have included it in the Armor of God in Ephesians ;)
I am loving this study! I often tell teens I teach that whatever you are going through has already been addressed in the Bible. There is no situation that you go through that someone in the Bible has not already been through. It was applicable then, is applicable now, and will be applicable in the future.
Amen!
So true! I have a reference page in my Bible that says, "What to read when you feel…" and then lists just about every emotion and situation you could encounter. The Bible has an answer for everything. Thank God!
Sorry ladies i.o on my phone so the buttons are smaller. .
This beautiful book me promises, abundant love, grace, mercy, forgiveness, joy, understanding, healing, hope, i could in on forever. .. This treasure has been in the hands of many, and will be in the hands of many many many many many more. . Where the great book is concerned ‘it is NOT finished.’ Amen.
Ladies, May the great author me this blessed book and our lives bless you today, abundantly in all you do. Happy today, x x x
But the word of God is not bound! ….Amen.!
Truth is truth! Amen to that too…
I am often in awe….it’s so hard sometimes to comprehend that for thousands of years the good book has been around, and that people from generations passed have held, preached, treasured, lived, endured, trusted, hidden, believed, in this beautiful, truth filled book, how awesome is that! People wearing different clothes, from a time so different to mind still held this beautiful book of promises, me abundant love