Most of us have seen those glass-covered, bright red fire warning and supply boxes. We recognize them as necessary for serious emergencies only, possibly pointing them out to co-workers or our children. Anyone with common sense realizes that these are not to be ignored or treated lightly, and we hope that there is never a situation requiring us to shatter that protective glass and use the equipment stored inside.
Homes as well as businesses can benefit from such tools as First Aid kits, AEDs, fire extinguishers, and other devices. No matter the implement, it typically remains tucked away in a drawer, cupboard, or toolbox until an emergency requires that we pull it out and put it to use. Yet every safety product — seatbelts, airbags, smoke/fire alarms, shut-off valves, fire retardant materials, or oxygen masks — can become useless without proper inspection and maintenance.
Unfortunately, the same planning that keeps safety items close at hand but out of sight can affect our spiritual lives as well. Many believers find themselves reluctant to invest more than an occasional hour or two for intentional strengthening of their faith, while others view the Bible as simply an outdated book full of strange, irrelevant stories.
God says differently.
Romans 15:4 — the Bible has been written to provide instruction and hope for believers.
John 20:31 and 1 John 5:13 — everything written in God’s Word provides evidence and assurance for our faith and salvation.
Psalm 119 — wisdom is gained from studying the written word of God, which brings insight, clarity, peace, and strength.
Ephesians 6:10-18 — only faith in the power of God as revealed in His Word shields us from the enemy of our souls.
Society may call the Christian’s faith in God outdated and inconvenient, but to ignore the message of hope, redemption, grace, and wisdom found in the pages of the Bible is to be spiritually unprepared for the challenges of life.
In case of fire, break the glass on the emergency box.
In case of life, turn to the hope of God’s Word.
mpaxson99@yahoo.com
