Read The Instructions? You’re Kidding!

Read the Instructions? You’re Kidding!

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.

2 Timothy 3:16

My husband’s work shift begins at 5 a.m. Since we can easily sleep through regular alarms, I bought a talking alarm clock, thinking a soothing voice would awaken us.

After reading the first page of the lengthy instructions, Bernie tossed them aside and said, “Hello, clock.”

“Say a command,” replied a mechanical voice.

“Set alarm for 4 a.m.”

“Alarm set,” a female voice cooed.

The next morning at 4 a.m., we were startled awake. “Wake up! Beep, beep! Four a.m.”

“I’m up,” grumbled Bernie. The clock repeated its chant.

“Turn that thing off,” I snarled.

“Shut up, clock!” Bernie yelled. As an afterthought, he added, “Please.”

As the clock squawked messages, I stumbled across the room for the instructions. After several minutes, I said, “Turn off the alarm now.”

“Alarm off.” The clock was silent.

“When all else fails, read the instructions” is a clever motto that applies not only to gizmos but also to our lives. When stress and problems overwhelm us, we moan, seek the advice of friends, and scream that life is not fair, instead of reading the Bible, God’s instruction manual for our lives. His Word, as spoken through the prophets, apostles, and his only Son, Jesus, will comfort and guide us in all situations.

Don’t wait until life is out of control and screaming like a pesky alarm clock before you seek God’s answers. Begin each day by seeking God’s guidance and reading his instructions and end the day with a prayer of thanks and praise.

—Rebecca Willman Gernon

Heavenly Father, too often I think I can manage my life without reading your Word. Increase my desire to let your wisdom guide my life by daily reading of the Bible. Amen.