Rick Warren's Blog, page 648

Biblical Prophesies: Not Just a Coincidence

“No prophecy ever originated from humans. Instead, it was given by the Holy Spirit as humans spoke under God’s direction.” (2 Peter 1:21 GWT)

The Bible is the most read book in history. It’s also the bestselling book in history and the most translated book in history.

The Bible Is Always Ahead of Science

“Praise him, you highest heaven and the water above the sky. Let them praise the name of the LORD because they were created by his command. He set them in their places forever and ever. He made it a law that no one can break.” (Psalm 148:4-6 GWT)

Someone may have told you at one time that the Bible isn’t scientifically accurate. That person is wrong. He’s either never studied the Bible or never studied science.

The Bible Has One Theme, and That’s a Miracle

“Beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, [Jesus] explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself.” (Luke 24:27 NIV)

Only God could have put the Bible together. It’s 66 books written over 1,600 years by 40 authors — and it has one theme.

If Jesus Trusted the Bible, Then You Should, Too

“For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.” (Matthew 5:18 NIV)

You may have heard someone say, “I trust Jesus, but not the other guys who wrote the Bible.” There’s a problem with that logic.

Why Should You Memorize Scripture?

“Whoever looks intently into the perfect law … and continues in it — not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it — they will be blessed in what they do.” (James 1:25 NIV)

If you’re serious about being spiritually strong and mature, the greatest habit you can develop is memorizing Scripture. In fact, the Bible says in James 1:25 that it’s one of four habits that leads to a blessed life: “Whoever looks intently into the perfect law … and continues in it — not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it — they will be blessed in what they do” (NIV).

How to Get Better Reception of God’s Word

“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires. Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.” (James 1:19b-21 NIV)

Let’s say you’re a gardener. You’ve learned that you can take the exact same seed and plant it in three different locations and get three different results. In one spot, you’ll get giant tomatoes. In another, you’ll get small tomatoes. And in a third, you’ll get nothing. What’s the difference? It’s not the seed; it’s the soil. The soil must be prepared for the seed.

Witnesses Just Share What They’ve Seen God Do

“Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” (1 Peter 3:15 NIV)

Everybody you see this week has a hidden hurt. And everybody you meet this week needs a massive dose of hope. When you share hope, you’ll have a willing audience.

Be Honest About Your Pain

“We have spoken frankly to you; we have opened our hearts wide.” (2 Corinthians 6:11 GNT)

When you talk about your pain with other people, you’re going to have a willing ear — particularly if you’re talking about pain that the other person is going through at that moment. But for God to use the pain that’s happened in your life for the good of other people, for his purposes, and for your benefit, you have to be authentic. You can’t sugar coat it. You can’t fake it. You can’t pretend. You’ve got to be real and honest about the hurts in your life.

You Are a Trophy of God’s Grace

“We know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God.” (Romans 8:28 NLT)

When you read the Bible, probably the most boring parts are the genealogy lists. Have you ever read them? They’re a great cure for insomnia.

God Can Use Your Messy Life for Good

“We know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God.” (Romans 8:28 NLT)

One of God’s great promises in the Bible is Romans 8:28: “We know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God” (NLT). It’s one of the most well-known verses in the Bible. It’s also one of the most misunderstood.