In the 1980s, contemporary Christian artists, Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith, wrote the song, “Thy Word,” based on scripture. I learned to play it on the piano and often sang it to the top of my lungs, probably out of tune, especially when no one was around to hear me. Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith helped pave the way for the modern era of contemporary Christian music (CCM), but LONG before they penned that song, King David wrote in Psalm 119:105. “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” 

The Word (scripture) is our guide, even in our messiness. You might walk into church on Sunday mornings with a smile on your face, but what else walks through those doors with you? Is it heartache? Physical pain? Disappointment over broken promises? Are you barely hanging on by a thread? Burned out on religion? Tired and weary?

It’s written in Matthew 11:28, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Jesus will provide comfort, and scripture will help you navigate life. It will illuminate your path. Whether you have it all together or are a hot mess, the Bible will direct you.  

Have you ever needed an answer and randomly opened your Bible to a verse that was perfect for the situation? I’ve done that on several occasions. Sometimes, I come across a verse that isn’t applicable for what’s happening; but often, I will flip open my Bible to a verse that is just what I need to read at the time. 

When I was a kid, I went to a church camp in East Tennessee. One day we had some quiet time out by our cabin. Our instructions were to take time to pray and read our Bibles. I found a seat on a tree stump and distinctly remember that it was a foggy and overcast morning. 

The sun was nowhere in sight. I randomly opened my Bible to Ecclesiastes 11:7, “Light is sweet, and it pleases the eyes to see the sun.” Just as soon as I read that verse, the sun peeked out from behind the clouds. That moment had an impact on me. I felt like God showed me a glimpse of the sun just as I read that passage. It would later become the first verse I ever highlighted in my Bible. 

As I’ve grown in my faith, I have come to realize that scripture is meant for much more than casually opening my Bible or cherry-picking verses. The Bible is a compass to steer my life.  

This past Sunday, Pastor Chris gave us four crucial reasons for scripture. First, we need better vision. God can see what we cannot. His vision will help guide us through what is out of our sight. 

Secondly, we need better direction for decisions. Without scripture as our guide, it’s easy to become lost. We have a loving Father who doesn’t want us to get lost in the craziness of life. 

Third, we need an accurate identity. We need to know what the Bible says about who we are. Our true identity is found in who Christ says we are and not based on the world’s definition. The world judges our baggage and makes us feel ashamed, but Romans 8:1 assures us that, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus . . .”  

Fourth, we need to be guided by God’s promises not our problems. You may walk through those church doors with problems, but God’s promises are solid. Consider giving your troubles to the Lord. 

At The Well, we invite you to come inside and find rest. If you’re carrying baggage, it’s okay. We want you to know it’s safe to walk in and put down the heavy load. There’s comfort in dropping your problems at the feet of Jesus.

May you rest in Him and let the scriptures lead you. “Thy Word” is a light that will shine brightly on the path of your life. If you need guidance like I do, I hope you’ll dig into some scriptures this week!  

By Kristy Ensor