The Living Word: Alive in Us

Connections asked our pastors, directors and pastoral residents to share their favorite parts of the Bible, or a part that is particularly speaking to them--to encourage us to read new and different parts of the Bible. Here’s what some of them had to say.

A few years back I memorized Romans 8 and I’m currently reviewing and reflecting upon it. That, plus Ephesians 1:1- 2:10, are probably my favorite Bible passages to remind me of all I have in Christ.

—Cheryce Berg, director of children’s ministries

I recently read Genesis (again), but this time, Joseph’s story stood out to me. I usually read that story as bad things happened to Joseph that were out of his control, but each time God miraculously elevated him and the things around him. While that’s true, this time I saw (and read between the lines) that Joseph’s commitment, work ethic and faithfulness to God were used by God to elevate the situation around him. And Joseph was elevated in the process. That faithfulness is evidenced by Joseph’s statement to Potiphar’s wife, “How then can I do this great wickedness and sin against God?” I see it when Joseph credits God for palace staff and Pharaoh’s dream interpretations rather than himself. Finally, when he tells his brothers, “Do not be angry or distressed with yourselves because you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life.”

There’s no mention of Joseph whining or complaining or being angry with God at his circumstance. Joseph didn’t just sit in a corner defeated. He rose to each occasion with integrity, and God used him where he was. I take that not only as a personal challenge but also as a lesson to pass on to my adult children who are just beginning their careers and influence in their part of this world.

—Tim Hollinger, director of technology

Romans 8. I have lived in this chapter for the past six years as I’ve been writing my dissertation on adoption in Romans. Recently, I have been struck afresh at the wonder of being an “heir of God”—that the God of the universe is my Father, and that everything belonging to him is mine in Christ as his son. Amazing!

—Josh Maurer, pastor of discipleship

In general, systematically reading through the Bible each year feeds my soul. As for a particular book that has been impacting me lately, I’d say the psalms. They help give me words for prayers, and they encourage my soul, especially in times of trouble. Recently Psalm 103 has been highly impactful. It reminds me of God’s character, his forgiveness, his compassion and his power. It also reminds me that life is short, and that my life is in his hands. —Eric Channing, pastor of congregational care & family ministries

John Piper opened a sermon titled, ‘If My Words Abide in You’ by quoting from seven different sections of the Bible. I’ve been meditating on those passages, and it’s been wonderful (Psalm 1, Psalm 16, Psalm 103, Romans 5:1-8, Romans 8; Matthew 6:25-34, 1 Corinthians 13)

—Michael Walker, pastoral resident

Our small group is studying the psalms with Doug ODonnell’s Psalms: A 12-Week Study. I’ve never approached the psalms as a whole book of the Bible before. It’s refreshing to see the connections between various psalms. And to think of psalms as the hymnbook of Jesus is eye-opening and inspiring when looking at the gospels.

—Wil Triggs, director of communications

I can’t imagine that very many people haven’t read this or heard it preached, but my favorite (surprise, surprise), is the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30. Why: it’s a very vivid reminder that God:

· Is in charge of everything as the master; we are stewards or managers.

· One day he will call us into account and judge us for how we have handled HIS wealth that he has allowed us to manage (Rom 3:19-20).

· Expects us to work hard to manage the possessions he has given us.

· Wants us to honor him by holding possessions and wealth with an open hand, being ready and willing to give generously to advance his kingdom

· Certainly desires us to enjoy the fruits of our hard work but not hoard our wealth, but instead use it to honor him

· Expects us to be a cheerful giver, giving sacrificially, consistently, eagerly and joyfully

—Nancy Singer, director of administration and finance