I misplaced my Bible last week during a mission trip to Canada. Funny thing is, I’ve had this Bible for decades and only misplaced it twice. Both times happened this year during trips to Canada.
In January, I left it at the community center where a local church meets. I found it the next day in the lost and found bin. Then last week, it lay hidden under the seat of our rental car when we turned it in. I called Avis the very next day but they had already rented the car again. They promised to hold the car when it was returned for a thorough inspection.
Three days later they called back and left a message. We played phone tag for two days before we finally connected. They found my Bible! The Avis desk would not be open when we flew out a few days later, so I made a special trip to the airport to pick it up.
I do have other Bibles, but this one is precious. This red leather edition is the 1984 NIV translation. I’ve used this Bible for memorization. I can quickly locate all my favorite passages. I know if they fall on the left side or right and in which column. I’ve studied in this Bible and I’ve taught from this Bible. I was not going to let it go without doing everything I could to find it.
Sentimental value aside, this Bible is just paper, leather, and ink. God’s Word and the truth found in it, is infinitely more than that. As I reflected on my efforts to get this particular Bible back, I began to wonder what I cared about more – this Bible or God’s Word. Do I pursue God’s true and eternal Word like I did my lost Bible?
One day, this physical Bible will be gone. If I don’t lose it forever in Canada, it will one day finally disintegrate with age. But God’s Word, which is recorded in my Bible, stands forever.
“Your word, Lord, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens.” Psalm 119:89
God’s Word is not bound by culture or restricted by time. It judges my thoughts, attitudes, and motivations.
“For the Word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edge sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12
If I listen to God’s Word and follow it, His Word will lead me in the way I should go.
“Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” Psalm 119:105
So, do I care more about my Bible or God’s Word. Yes, I love this red leather Bible. But I desire to live by the Word of Truth recorded between its covers.
What about you? Do you care more about your Bible or God’s Word?
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