Every Word Of It

Every Word of It

By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life.

2 Peter 1:3

Words are my stock in trade. I love working with them, fitting them together, listening to their rhythm, their inflections, and their texture. Words fascinate me and entertain me day after day.

Mark Twain, the famous American writer and humorist, loved words too. Occasionally he attended the church services of Dr. Doane, who was later the bishop of Albany but at the time was rector of an Episcopal church in Hartford, Connecticut.

One Sunday morning Mr. Twain said to Dr. Doane at the end of the service, “Dr. Doane, I enjoyed your service this morning very much. I welcomed it like an old friend. You will find it interesting to know that I have a book at home containing every word of it.”

“You have not,” said Dr. Doane indignantly.

“I have so,” said Twain confidently.

“Well, you send that book to me, then. I’d like to see it,” said Doane.

“I’ll send it,” promised Twain, shaking the rector’s hand and heading for home. The following day he sent Dr. Doane an unabridged dictionary.

There is another Book that contains every word that we need “for living a godly life.” It gives us guidelines for happy living. And yet, so many people today do not believe that Book is sufficient for them. They try to supplement it with all kinds of other writings, teachings, and philosophies. As a result, because other teachings do not fully match God’s Word, these people end up confused and frustrated.

When you want the words of life, stick to the Word of God.

I know that you, Lord, are the true Author of life and that your Book is the only one upon which I should base my life and my hope for life hereafter. Help me to share its message with everyone I can. Amen.