Worth The Space!

I like books; books that uplift and feed the mind. Over the years I have built up a pretty good library which, though not being added to as quickly as when it first began, continues to grow. I also have an extensive library of resources on my laptop computer which are used on a regular basis as I prepare sermons and class lessons. I have known preachers who limited their library to 100 books (they would discard or give away one when buying another), but I find that difficult to do, though I have discarded a few books and given some away over the years. I like having the resources available -- even the ones that have collected some dust. Even in our home we have full bookshelves in several rooms. At times I have wished we had the money to add two more rooms to our house; a library and a music room. Our children and their spouses keep reminding me we just need to get rid of some stuff and though I may hate to admit it, they are right.

Sometimes books are possessed which have a value not fully recognized. Several years ago I found I had a rare children’s book on the animals of the Bible. When I became aware that this book was on a list of books our oldest son was searching for (he being an education major at the time), that book became his since it had more value to him than it did to me.

Today I took a set of encyclopedias to the recyclers because it was published in the mid seventies. Though still in good condition, it seemed nobody else wanted it, even for free. More history has taken place and new discoveries have been made since that set of encyclopedias was published. Another factor in no one wanting the set is that many people today use their computers to find out that kind of information anyway -- myself included. These were books just taking up shelf space that could be better utilized.

We may recognize there are some books which reach a time when they are no longer worth being allowed to hog shelf space. However, one book (or rather library of books) that will always be worth its shelf space and constant use is the BIBLE, GOD’S WORD. And though possessed by many, some don’t seem to really recognize the practical and priceless value it continues to have.

Jesus said…
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but MY WORDS WILL NOT PASS AWAY.” ( Matthew 24:35 ESV)

The Greek in this passage uses two negatives for emphasis to literally say “MY WORDS will NOT NOT pass away” or as the New King James Version reads, “will by no means pass away.” (NKJV). Strong’s Greek renders the two negatives as meaning “never, certainly not, not at all, or by no means.” They are not subject to the changing of the times, but are rather just as eternal as He is Himself.

GOD’S WORD is still the most relevant book we can possess. If we were allowed to only possess one book, it would be THE ONE we would be wisest to retain. The WORD OF GOD is worth taking up space on our shelves, coffee tables or desks, our minds, our hearts, our lives, and conversations. Within the pages of Scripture we will continue to find timeless words with a value relating to both the present and all eternity. May it never be one to collect dust.

Have a great day CHERISHING GOD’S ETERNAL WORDS!
Carl

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