Thus speaks the LORD God of Israel, saying: ‘Write in a book for yourself all the words that I have spoken to you. (Jeremiah 30:1-3 )
I like to practice calligraphy. I especially enjoy copying favorite scriptures into a little notebook. When done correctly the lettering is quite beautiful. I’ve often wondered what it would be like to be a Jewish scribe in the ancient world, daily marching to the job of writing the Holy Scriptures. They had to follow stringent rules in order to be able to write, and their tools were at best, primitive. I admire the dedication and concentration such endeavors required. I know first-hand how difficult it is to maintain the size and spacing of letters. A scribe named Baruch recorded the book of Jeremiah. Jeremiah 36:17 says: And they asked Baruch, saying, “Tell us now, how did you write all these words—at his instruction?” We have this devoted group of people who endured many hardships to thank for the beginnings of our Holy Bible.
To write is a command given many times in the Bible. This is a command that not only Moses and the prophets, but also the disciples and Paul, took to heart. Each contributor’s effort has shared with us the good news of the scriptures. They wrote it on their hearts so that we can write it on our hearts. I thank my God for the many voices of the Bible and for the opportunity to read and learn more about my Lord. So many people have been inspired by the Bible to write songs, commentaries, poems, essays, books, to the glory of God. They aid us in understanding the scriptures, but the best way to know the Bible is to read it and to write it.
Let it clothe you like a garment: He shall cover you with His feathers, And under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler. (Psalm 91:3-5)
Bless the Lord, O my soul! O Lord my God, You are very great: You are clothed with honor and majesty, (Psalm 104:1)
Let it comfort you: My little children, these things I write to you, so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. (1 John 2:1-3)
How fortunate we are to have a book that assures us, educates us, cheers us, offers hope in a hostile world! I urge you to get to know your Bible so that you may get to know the Lord more intimately. Write it on your heart. Allow it to daily change your life. It will spill over to those around you.
