“For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!”” (Romans 10:13–15, ESV)
“So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17, ESV)

I listened to one of my favorite Christian speakers the other day. I had an opportunity to hear her speak, and I was so excited. She has a gift. She is captivating and moving. She is funny and profound. Her style is unique, and she honors God in her life and work.

She is also an author. Her works have led me into a deeper relationship with Jesus. She is a student of God’s Word and a passionate teacher of God’s Word. I have enjoyed her written material immensely. I keep many of her books on my shelf as handy resources.

I have to say, the latest talk I heard was disappointing. I didn’t get a lot out of it. The information was true and right, but I wasn’t being moved, convicted, or encouraged. It seemed that I was learning but not growing spiritually. It did impact my intellect, but not my soul. Something was wrong. Was it the teaching or was it me?

I prayed about it and later analyzed the situation. The Lord gave me a clear understanding of the problem. The lesson I received was a motivational lesson by a Christian. It was true and right. There was nothing wrong or heretical in the teaching. But there was a problem. This speaker was not using God’s Word in her lecture.

She talked about hymns, anecdotal experiences, and her personal life. She taught practical skills. But the Word of God was absent. This startled me. Not because I question this speaker’s motives or heart for God, but because I realized how easy it is to depend on our knowledge and how shallow that is.

How often have I shared stories or experiences in hopes of encouraging people in Lord, but failed to include God’s truth in the account? How many times have I taught a Bible study that was mostly my experience or thought? How often have I skipped reading the Bible to read a book about the Bible instead?

The Word of God needs to be the center of my life, teaching, encouragement, witnessing, and discussion if it is going to change lives and build faith. Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.

My prayer today Lord is from the Book of Acts. “And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant to your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness, while you stretch out your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are performed through the name of your holy servant Jesus.” And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness.” (Acts 4:29–31, ESV) Fill us with the Spirit in power and boldness so that we can proclaim your truth to the praise of the Lord Jesus and for the salvation of many.