Blessed to Read the Bible
Gifts Given by God
I’ve been sharing how Bible study tools are helpful, but they are not what make engagement with God’s Word possible. Yesterday, I wrote about how I guard against this in my preaching and teaching preparation. Today, I want to reflect on some of the blessings God has used to help me read and understand the Bible.
As a lay preacher and teacher, I want to share what has personally helped me better read and understand Scripture. When I think about how I engage Scripture today, I realize how many blessings I have received that I often take for granted.
First, even a basic public education has equipped me to read, write, and communicate. The ability to comprehend what we read and express ourselves clearly is not a given for everyone.
Second, I have been blessed by believing parents. While I do not recall our faith being actively discussed as a family, it was reassuring to know that they feared God and were people of God’s Word.
Third, going to church is an incredible privilege. I saw how my parents served the church. I sat under expository preaching, and I had faithful Sunday School teachers. I was given opportunities to exercise my talents, gifts, and abilities. I had mentors and counselors. All of this has contributed to how I engage the Bible.
I understand that we all come to the Bible with different backgrounds. While some grow up in the church, others meet the Lord later in life. While some do well with books, words, and study, others work better with their hands, tools, and machinery. While some have extra time on their hands, others find it difficult to find a quiet space or time alone at home. God gives as He pleases, and all He asks is that we be faithful.
While our starting points may be different, God is not limited by our backgrounds. He delights to grow His people through His Word. Wherever we are today, there is always room to know Him more, understand His truth more clearly, and follow Him more faithfully.
When I look at my own life, I realize that my ability to engage the Bible is not merely the result of my own effort. It is the product of many blessings God has graciously placed along my path.
I’m grateful for what God has given, and I ask that you pray for me to steward it well.
More: Messages
The Biggest Story Bible Storybook
The Biggest Story Bible Storybook is on sale this summer for 50% off at Westminster Bookstore! The offer ends June 30, so get on it before they sell out. Use my code DIVEINDIGDEEP to save an extra 5% off your entire order always. Read my full review.
Beginning in Genesis and ending with Revelation, DeYoung provides engaging retellings of various Bible stories, explaining how they fit into the overarching storyline. Each reading is coupled with beautiful illustrations by award-winning artist Don Clark and concludes with a reflective prayer. Perfect for bedtime stories or to read together as a family, both children and parents alike will experience afresh the captivating story of the Bible in an easy-to-understand, compelling way.
More: Father’s Day Gift Guide at Westminster Bookstore
Crossway+ Special: 50% Off Books Featured at TGCW
Check out this incredible lineup of books and Bibles featured at TGCW!
Now through June 24, 2026, Crossway+ members receive 50% off select books and Bibles featured at The Gospel Coalition’s 2026 Women’s conference. Whether you were able to attend or not, take advantage of this discount on books highlighted at this year’s conference, where the theme was Turn Your Eyes: Seeing the Savior in the Psalms.
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Endnotes
In Thirty Second Theology, Sinclair B. Ferguson uses a clear question-and-answer format to help young readers build and strengthen their faith. The book presents foundational Christian doctrines in a concise and accessible way. Giveaway and review.
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