Jesus taught that many who are lost cannot be classed as necessarily wicked; rather, they are foolish and careless (see Matt. 7:24–27). One
area with potential for neglect and carelessness is the regular, systematic study of the Word of God.
The reading of books about the Bible or theology does not substitute for a deep, personal knowledge of Scripture. To neglect the experience of the rejuvenating, reforming power that the study of God’s Word gives to our spiritual lives is a loss we dare not risk.
Ellen G. White observes, “Those who endeavor to obey all the commandments of God will be opposed and derided. They can stand only in God. In order to endure the trial before them, they must understand the will of God as revealed in His word; they can honor Him only as they have a right conception of His character, government, and purposes, and act in accordance with them.”*
Lord, “[d]irect me in the path of your commands, for there I find delight. . . . Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word” (Ps. 119:35, 37, NIV).
—Audrey Andersson serves as executive secretary, Trans-European Division, St. Albans, Herts, England.
* Ellen G. White, The Great Controversy (Mountain View, CA: Pacific Press Pub. Assn., 1950), 593
