@@matematic5256 Because someone's soul is at stake ? If someone is truly born again they will have new desires such as wanting to read the Bible and obeying God if someone has to force themselves to do these things theres a good chance that person is not born again
@@Goldtaker23 so your only desires are for God all the time no we have sinful flesh until we die do you read your bible and pray 3 times a day for a few hours I dont think so. But we need to try to do so.
@@Goldtaker23 No it does not. Many Christians don't have motivation to read the bible but that dosn't mean that they're not saved, it is probably because satan is attacking them. She obviously desires to do good things or else she wouldn't be forcing herself to read the bible.
That's a very good point thank you because there are days I don't feel like reading the Bible either but then I remember the Scripture that says....PRESS your way towards the mark of your calling so this is proof that we are to force ourselves even when we don't feel like it
MAN I think you are the smartest person in the world thank you very much because what you said is the second most important thing I have ever heard in my entire life. The bible plainly states, that we should PRESS OUR WAY.
1. Make myself do what I ought to do 2.Confess that it's a sin NOT to read the Bible 3. Ask God while Im reading it to give me joy in reading it. God is the one who opens our minds to understand Scripture. (Luke 24:45) "Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me." Psalm 51:12
John Piper is a wicked man! When you welcome wicked pastors on your program like Creflo Dollar and Kenneth Copeland, then don't listen to them. The wicked honors the wicked. I bash sin, the world comforts sins.
When I was 6 I had a friend, whose mom lived with a woman and this to me was normal I did not see anything wrong. Until God allowed me to read the bible at age 6 to see that He created a man and a woman to multiply the earth that is when I said who am I going to believe. I started to read KJV at the age of 6 to this day every day and now I am 54 I believe God’s Word. I was known as a latchkey kid and only God who is Jesus raised me with His word. I lived in a non-black area and I was treated horribly by many because of prejudice feelings and only through Christ could I understand and forgive their ignorance. Why would an adult tell a 6 year old horrible things about the color of my skin to make me feel inferior because of her fears. God who is Jesus appeared to me many times and helped me with so much in my life to this day there is no way I would choose the lust of the world knowing God’s way is better. I met my late hubby at the age of 14 became a widow at the age of 24. I raised 3 sons in the Lord who now are in their late 20s early 30s and these young black men put God first, are still virgins, finished college, working at great careers one a teacher, another a chef, and my youngest is a programmer who judges events and they all enjoy what they do plus make a great income. These young men gave me no drama and honestly lives for God not the world. I never remarried, and I do not live in lust I do not have sex outside the marriage and I refused to go against God’s word. God does say this is possible because His seed is in us and we do not want to sin which this is true. People rather lust in their flesh than live peacefully doing what is right. My parents did not force me to read the bible God used me to save our whole household he used a 7-year-old who read the bible to save our household. To this day I read the bible daily and apply this to my life which my life is peaceful by the grace of God. Many say the bible is hard to understand this is false they just do not want to read the bible. If a 7-year-old can read the bible and practice what the bible says by the Holy Spirit than anyone can do the same. People go to hell because they rather please their flesh than to please God.
@@gabrielbarbosa7882 all glory be to God you can listen to audio bible gateway I use the kjv dramatize version it takes about 1 week to listen to the entire bible from the beginning to the end . I listen to the bible while I sleep as well
this is so necessary. Psalm 51:12 - Restore to me the joy of Your salvation. 2 Corinthians 10: 5b - bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ... gah.
The thing is I don't like reading (I never liked it as a kid), but now I read the word of God I have to make myself stop whatever I'm doing and start reading.
@Son7of7God7 Oh and after the 6 months of studying I sold everything I had and joined an internship in Michigan. I have seen God provide in way's that I am still dumbfounded by lol. I have learned to 'actually' listen to Him, and He has blown my entire understanding of life, reality, and of people. And all I have heard thus far is whispers compared to what is actually there, and available to those who will truly seek Him with their whole heart. He doesnt need your head, He wants your heart.
I was an atheist before I came to Christ (6 months before my 37th bday). I wanted nothing to do with God, nor the idea of the existence of God; and I HATED reading books, reading ONLY when I absolutely had to for school/college. I can testify to you today: the evidence of having received the Holy Spirit is INSTANT change in desires. The moment I experienced genuine sorrow/shame that led to genuine repentance (no intent of ever turning back) God baptized me in Fire! The MOMENT this happened all I wanted to do was serve Him, and the reading the bible became a delight rather than a chore. PLEASE. It's not about speaking in tongues. It is GENUINE change in desires (the fruit) that is the evidence of having received the Holy Spirit. If you have not experienced this, PLEASE, cry out to God for this; that you might be born again!! It is not fairytale! It is NOT pretend! When you are truly born again (that is given the "new heart", the Holy Ghost; Ezekiel 36:26-27), YOU WILL KNOW! 🙏🏿🙏🏿
I Forced myself to read the bible when I wasn't feeling it I usually am good reading the bible and don't mind but it was just one of those days and I remembered that the bible says feed your spirit with God's word I didn't want my spirit to go on hungry so I forced myself to read and IT WAS AMAZING I stopped making it difficult the devil was trying to push me away but when I heard the word of God and read it , It was just so powerful I couldn't stop it was like eating thanksgiving dinner but for your spirit....but if you force yourself to read the bible and it doesn't go well than you should probably stop and pray about it to God
These comments are very encouraging. I keep getting distracted from reading the Bible. I know I should be reading but there’s always something wanting my attention. I used to be so disciplined. While reading it I start thinking of other things.
When l am not eager to read the word of God, l open my bible sometimes to a random page and read what God says to me, it usually takes hold of my spirit and tells me why l should read his word, other times l will go to a chapter that l know will really get my life together!!!
4 He answered, “It is written: Man must not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”` -- Matthew 4:4 (CSB). Do we only eat bread when we feel like it? Or because we need to? Ask yourself that question.
@KaijinDV 1. There's more evidence for the life of Jesus than there is for Abraham Lincoln. 2. To know if a cake recipe is correct follow the instructions. I've tested the promises of Jesus, they are true, my life is evidence. 3. He is not only all loving but also completely JUST. He wont bend the rules. If someone sins the penalty is death. We all should have died but for his mercy in taking our place. You can experience the greatest phenomenon in all the universe: the love of God.
God will put the desire in your heart to read the bible. Now if you say that you have to read your bible in order to get something else from God and you have to force it then its no longer going to be joyful but a work.
It's strange, but one evening when I got home from work I got my Bible and just started reading from the beginning in the book of Genesis. I have been reading it since and now I am currently reading Proverbs. I don't know what it was that just got me to start reading the Bible. Maybe it was the desire to understand God better. No one is making me read it either and no one in my family has ever read it. So maybe God gave me the desire to read it.
@@strangeroamer3219 Awesome! That's really wonderful to read. I'm glad it changed you, because what's the point of reading it if our thinking is still filthy?
John 15 :7 If my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish and it will be done for you. Hiding more words in our hearts strengthens the faith, pray with faith and prayers are answered.
O que estou me opondo é, por disciplina e força de vontade, “fazer o que você deve fazer, como ler a bíblia, e pensar que isso por si só é uma virtude, sem qualquer gozo não é uma boa condição para se estar” em vez disso quando você estiver nessa situação apenas use a força de vontade e disciplina para fazer o que deve ser feito, e ao mesmo tempo devemos confessar que somos pecadores desejamos sentir gozo nisso e com Davi dizer: “restaura Senhor em mim, a alegria da salvação”.
I dont have the desire to read the word like I used to and I don’t feel the joy I used to either when I do read…I feel bad that I’m doing this to God that I read to get something out it [like peace and joy] inside of reading to learn and get to know him…it’s very frustrating…any advice from a fellow believer?
@ndzoko Yah your right. I haven't yet experienced the difficult times. I have not yet resisted to bloodshed striving against sin. I haven't experienced Him hiding His face from me yet. Therefore I haven't had to deal with the issue of whether my faith is genuine or not. But I know I'll have to, and talking to people like you help alot. Im just an infant man. I dont know anything. Im just barely taking my first steps. But it helps to know where the ditches are before-hand. Thanks =)
Those who are in the faith (Christians) that are truly regenerate and born again believers will have a passion geared towards reading and learning the word of God. If someone professes faith in the Lord and has NO passion whatsoever to ever read the word of God, I have to question the fact that they most likely are not converted. To be honest, you have to be converted and given a new heart to receive the bible with passion, no other way.
YOU ARE WRONG, the bible clearly states that we should PRESS OUR WAY. He also said to STRIVE to enter in at the straight gate so you see there is effort there. According to this, it doesn't have to always be an indwelling
I have passion but I feel like I don't get much out if it most of the time I'm only a young Christian so I know I need to mature but something feel off to me I have the right desires but the know how to carry it out
@kenfo0 I agree with everything you said if I could change the words "a sin" to "hypocritical", the word "fascinating" to "horrific" and "good Samaritan story" to "the exodus story". When the bible is read in context there is no hiding the horrors between it's pages eg: Exodus 22:18 how is it possible to take this social responsibility out of context and how many died because of it. You may not pick and choose the bits you like. It need not be a somber and ugly experience, but it is.
@naciamaJYute given that wild assumption, sure. i would like to meet him. if i may ask a few questions of you. 1. do you care if what you believe is correct 2. how do you if a claim is correct? (if I were to tell you that the world is flat, how would you be able to tell if i was right or not) 3. what stopped an all powerful loving god from not forgiving sin without a sacrifice?
I always think that if I am forcing myself to do what Christ wants me to. It’s fine to force myself. I mean it’s not always about what you want to do. I don’t want to work out Eat healthy Go to the dr Go to sleep at 10 Go to work in the morning But that’s life yo lol Praise Christ
I use to read and study my Bible and I have drifted away from doing that. I want to read the Bible and I want to study it but I never do, I need help I don’t know what to do. I go to read it and then I get distracted and don’t.
To clarify further there is a difference between murder and killing. For example: our country at least still believes it is OK to "kill" and grievous "murderer". The Bible also has a distinction between the two and much is made by those opposed to the Bible when the two are confused. The Bible also sometimes relates the story of a murder without further comment at that point. It does not mean that therefore the Bible condones murder especially when in other places it clearly condemns it.
@KaijinDV Let me rephrase the question: Assuming the creator of all things exists and has such concern and love for you that he gives everything including his life to not only spare your life from certain destruction but to provide you with a new life free from fear, worry and death, would you want to meet Him? BTW if your elephants offer such things i'd like to meet them.
Há muitas vezes em que eu sinto uma grande vontade de ler a bíblia e outras em que meu coração esta direcionado para novos programas de computadores e eu sinto pouco desejo de ler a bíblia. Quando eu estou nesta condição acho que é certo fazer o que deve ser feito, em segundo lugar confessar que isso é pecado, que eu não quero ler a bíblia e perguntar a Deus por que estou nessa condição e pedindo que me dê alegria para fazê-lo.
I'm sure people are capable of reading a psalm or 2, honestly it's the best book in the world, what else is better than knowing your creator , if however you struggle with ADD or something ,get an audio Bible , blessings from Australia ❤️☝🌍🌈☀🔥🌹🕚🔭📝💪💫💯
The Spirit of God is in me. If I let Him lead me, I am a son of God. If God dwells in me, He should be the one to tell me when (and if) to read Scripture vs doing anything else He wants me to do. He said Spirit lead, not devotional discipline lead
@KaijinDV LOL. OK 1. Yes I care about truth. 2. After proving His promises I take the others (like the resurrection) on faith How did I test the promises of Jesus? Here's one occasion: Phil 4:7, "And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." Peace of mind cannot be faked. I prayed in serious trouble. He not only delivered me, most of all the anxiousness, fear and worry was replaced almost immediately by PEACE
Jesus said don’t labor for meat that perishes but for meat that doesn’t perish. Yes labor to seek God. Labor to do good. Labor to pray. If you love him you keep his commandments.
@pricer5 (2) This being is transcendent - meaning it was not a part of our physical universe. Which makes it a non-physical entity. It also means that it doesn't have to abide by our physical universe's rules - since it doesn't even rely on it for its existence. This transcendent non-physical entity or being is also eternal. It also had to have had the power and will to create, otherwise nothing would have been created.
Às vezes ouvimos as pessoas dizer (reclamar) que não tem desejo de orar ou ler a bíblia, deveria fazer isso forçado se não há alegria no coração? Seria hipócrisia? Vida em Cristo é feita tanto por disciplina, que requer força de vontade quanto por transbordamento espontâneo de amor a Cristo. Há uma diferença entre hipocrisia e fazer o que você não sente vontade de fazer. Sendo honesto com as pessoas e com Deus, nesse caso.
It’s so hard to read the Bible to understand it , I Study and watch RUclips for hours from John Piper and Paul washer true man of God! Because I don’t read the Bible and understand it am I singing because I have a hard time to do that ?
@d3ltadrive A great much of the Bible is literal and can be easily understood by the common man (especially with some of these new translations). I say start with the Gospels: Matthew, Mark Luke John. Whats so hard to understand about these books? Besides how can anyone form a real relationship with Jesus without reading the Bible?
@ndzoko I promise to ponder those words if you'll ponder those of Stephen the Martyr, (during the stoning) "Forgive them Lord, they don't know what they do. Lord Jesus, receive my spirit!"
@kenfo0 I must read the texts, all of them,in order to speak intelligently on the subject. That is called intellectual integrity & is of value to me. My goal is not to changer your mind but to think critically about the beliefs u hold. Any mind changing done is up to the individual. I picked 22:18 as it is imposable to be taken out of context. Breaking off from Ox law and the penalties for rape or seduction of virgins the book reads "you shall not suffer a witch to live". Appropriate I thought.
2 most powerful words that you will ever hear to help regarding this subject: HOLY SPIRIT. God left us the Holy Spirit for many reasons.. one of those reasons is for this particular subject. It’s the will of the Holy Spirit to make our souls burn for Jesus, to help aluminate the scriptures for us, to teach us how to interpret the scriptures, to help us memorize the verses etc. You must ask the Holy Spirit for help in this. That is part of the reason why He is here on earth.. to help us. Oh great Comforter, Oh Great Counselor, we need your peace and guidance. Spirit of the living God, help us.
Well great! Do tell what's better than knowing God. The Bible implies that those outside of Christ have no peace, no hope, no real future, their final destination death haunting them through life. If you've found something that addresses all of these please share it.
@ndzoko Im sorry you feel that way my friend. I was an athiest (leaning toward Nihilism) studying Friedrich Nietzche in high school and college. I hated God, and people, and found pride in my ability to debate with, and tear down christians who had little to no understanding. When I even thought of the possibility of this being true you know what I did? I sat in my apartment for 6 months and studied. I sincerely sought. I wanted to know the truth. I was hungry.
@ndzoko some differences in Christian worship are honest differences of opinion, while others are just false worship, people who don't read their Bible being lead astray by false teachers. Also Their is nonew testiment verse that read in context promotes killing, and those places in the old testiment were within reason if you understand the context of a fledgling nation that wouldn't survive without God, God gave spicific directions as to who, why, and how!
@pricer5 You're correct, I'm not arguing that the Christian God is the right God or any of that. I'm simply saying it's not utterly illogical, incoherent, or irrational to call this first cause that has God-like characteristics, "God."
I always have a urge to read the bible but I hate that when I do I get sleepy and bored and don't wanna read no more it's not that I don't wanna spend time with GOD it's just that reading makes me sleep at times
@naciamaJYute the second answer is fine, we know if a claim is true when we test it. and only after proper testing and verification can we determine if a claim is true or not. although i call into question that you've tested if there is an afterlife as youtube doesn't allow the dead to make their own profiles. how exactly did you test the promises of Jesus? also i would have to disagree with you, the greatest phenomenon in all the universe is actually Star Wars episode 5: The Empire Strikes Back
Hipocrisia é fazer o que você não sente vontade de fazer e querer esconder isso das pessoas, os fazendo achar que você gosta de fazer isso. Honestidade é fazer o que você não gosta de fazer e sentir-se mal por isso e dizer às outras pessoas como você está se sentindo e então pede que orem por você. E dizer a Deus, “eu não me sinto desse jeito” eu quero sentir-me assim.
It does not matter if you have read the bible or continue on reading the bible to be saved , walk in light be one with God , speak truth be peaceful and loving . Be protectors of this world and all of creation , call out evil and wrong doing , Serving the lord does not require continuous indoctrination . Bless to all !
Additionally, there are many who call themselves Christian in name who have no desire to act like it and have done things contrary to God's instructions. I will not argue for them or those behaviors, only for Christianity as it is clearly explained in the Bible. So, my first question is: from where did man get his conscience? I contend that there is an absolute morality and that relative morality, when examined, can be shown to have limited practical use as a guide for our actions.
Ya. I also once read a book on Accounting too and decided it was not for me. I guess the stuff in that book must be a myth too. Thanks for that piece of logic. :-)
please help me I have no joy reading the bible but i force my self to. Something is wrong with why dont i have joy in the bible? How can i read the bible with joy?
@ndzoko I make that statement on the basis of your unbelief not of knowledge of your level of understanding. I certainly hope not! I pray that I dont think the way I do now 20 years from now. It would mean that I have become complacent and unwilling to pursue the depths of Christ. It would mean that I have become fat on my own understanding and have exchanged the knowledge of the glory of God for my own "glory". And no its not all positive. Alot of it hurts. But the good far exceeds the hurt.
@rsolano60 It's logical to say there is a God. For example, all physical entity or quantity does not have the reason for its own existence in itself; it has to find its explanation outside of itself. There is no effect without a cause. When this is applied to the origin of the universe, there are two options: matter was either created by a transcendent being, or it just fortuitously sprung out of nothing. And there is nothing more irrational than the idea that something can come from nothing.
@naciamaJYute could you prove that he exists? I mean that would be helpful in meeting him. Obviously. If we are to take seriously the demands of beings that only seem to make their presence known in the minds of others, then i know of a few flying pink elephants who have some ideas on how to end the debt crisis.
@pricer5 (1) It's not wrong to say "I don't know", unless simple logic can take you further than that conclusion. The universe either fortuitously sprung out of nothing, or it was caused by a transcendent being. This being could not also be an effect, otherwise the chain of cause and effects would keep going back forever - an infinite regress. There had to be a first cause that wasn't an effect. I call it a being because a being is simply a state of existence.
sorry. I was away. I was just making a point. I once asked my skeptical friends that question and they couldn't do it even though it is a key doctrine in scripture. I was showing them if they are to mock Christ they should know what they are talking about.
So let's apply your principle in another area and see how well it works. I have a "superstitious" belief that God commands me not to murder another human being. I first and foremost believe murder is wrong based on my "God" given prejudice. So if I witness someone committing a murder, should I "keep the idea that it is wrong to myself" or should I speak up and be a witness in court to bring the perpetrator to justice? I think you will agree that all of us should act publicly on our beliefs.
@naciamaJYute i wouldn't find it that odd at all. Coming from a high christian area myself. whether or not I myself believe in any particular claim doesn't mean that that idea can't have a significant effect on my life. If I'm going to have to deal with religious fundamentalists in order to get equal rights for gay couples, then it just makes sense that I find out what they believe and why they believe it rather then try and isolate myself to their views
@naciamaJYute i understand if you don't want to discuss the rights of our fellow men but if your going to use the bible as a reason for not allowing them to marry, does it not stand that you don't do other things that the bible labels as an abomination, and are also neutral and/or in favor of practices the bible's God was also neutral and/or in favor of?
You will only understand scripture if you have a hunger for truth. Most of you are willing to risk eternity for the pleasure of a few laughs, and the false sense of security that accompanies an unaccountable existence. This truth is not an easy one. But it is glorious! It is not a crutch, but rather disables every crutch and forces you to come to the stark terms of reality. You too will be shaken, and what where will you then find comfort friend?
@ndzoko You arent asked to defend your faith, you are asked to give a reason for the hope that is in you. The countless number of people that have laid their lives down because of this gospel of the "Kingdom" is testimony enough that there is something here. He doesnt want the literate, He wants the hungry. I would venture even to say most theologians dont know Him. Think of the parables. Yeshua hid the truth when teaching but revealed it to His disciples.
@pricer5 So we have an eternal, transcendent, non-physical, non-contingent being that relies on nothing for its existence, and had the ability and will to create the universe. And we call this being "God."
@pricer5 Those are the only possible scenarios because logically there only are two. The universe had to have had a beginning. Either something caused it (so it was created) or nothing did (it sprang out of nothing). To call this first cause "God" is by no means a stretch if you consider what the nature of this cause. It's transcendent, non-physical, doesn't play by our universe's rules, eternal, entirely self-reliant, powerful, able to create, and willing to create. Sounds like God to me.
@clayhutchins Well then, if everything must have an external cause, what is your transcendand being's external cause?... if it doasn't need one, then why not save a step and say that the energy at the big bang (ther was no matter) doasn't need an extarnal cause? We could actually have a universe out of nothing, there is a rational explanation in youtube by the renown Phisicist lawrence .
Moreso, we should see it as spiritual discipline. The flesh is weak therefore we must always seek to be disciplined in the things of God not of the flesh
Read God's Word in the Bible or Quran or Baha'i Writings etc. is healthy- "Immerse yourselves in the ocean of My words, that ye may unravel its secrets, and discover all the pearls of wisdom that lie hid in its depths." ~ Baha'u'llah
What tells you it is the "right" thing to do? Where does your "common humanity" get the idea of what is "good" or "bad"? For a more thorough examination of this concept than I have time for here I suggest you read C.S. Lewis' "Mere Christianity." You might discover there are deep thinking Christians whose arguments are far from being "pigeons". Unless you're not up to that challenge.
We all have sinned and fell short of the glory to God. The problem is, that God is holy and doesn’t live with sin. So we all deserve to go to hell, but Jesus paid the price so you don’t have to!!All you have to do is confess Jesus as your savior and repent (turn from ALL sin) and you can have eternal life!
@naciamaJYute I notice that you didn't actually answer the questions asked. you'd make a successful politician the first one is a simple yes or no question, whether you care if what you believe (all beliefs not just the divinity of Jesus Christ) is actually correct
@naciamaJYute actually Christ hasn't had an effect on my life, Jesus (if he existed) lived and died 2 thousand years ago, but I have been in contact with his followers. as an atheist I couldn't join the boy scouts as a kid because according to them i can't "grow into the best kind of citizen without recognizing an obligation to God". While I was living in Utah i couldn't buy alcohol on Sundays. its not so much jesus, as it is people doing ignorant and bigoted things in his name
@rsolano60 Give me the simple, basic, most compelling facts and evidences that led you to believe that something can come from nothing. And if you can't do so without checking back to the 64 minute video of Lawrence, it further proves you weren't really convinced of anything.
I agree that being honest with yourself is a necessary step I don't believe the bible is fun to read and I disagree with any presumption that one does not read his bible therefore he isn't saved the bible is difficult to read sometimes it is in many ways an enigma people it frustrates me that even when I've prayed for understanding of the bible that still eludes me in the end I think if you find joy you either have never suffered and therefore are gullible and presumptuous or you have suffered and it now has new meaning about 90% of christianity will be in hell one day because they are living lies the bible isn't fun to read it tells you the truth of yourself and from what I can see both in people and in the bible is that nobody I know except 1 person will be in heaven
just open up psalms and read some, it will change your desire to read. its helpful.
I agree.So so helpful.
Yes true 🙏
Thanks for the tip
Psalms helped me through a sad and discouraging time in my life.
Yes,we should force to develop the habit of reading.....by asking God for strength to do it out of love for him
I need to force myself to read the bible more often. I need more self discipline. thanks for this.
Do you desire to read the Bible or do you always force yourself ?
@@Goldtaker23 why do you care ?
@@matematic5256 Because someone's soul is at stake ? If someone is truly born again they will have new desires such as wanting to read the Bible and obeying God if someone has to force themselves to do these things theres a good chance that person is not born again
@@Goldtaker23 so your only desires are for God all the time no we have sinful flesh until we die do you read your bible and pray 3 times a day for a few hours I dont think so. But we need to try to do so.
@@Goldtaker23 No it does not. Many Christians don't have motivation to read the bible but that dosn't mean that they're not saved, it is probably because satan is attacking them. She obviously desires to do good things or else she wouldn't be forcing herself to read the bible.
Sometimes I don't feel like paying my bills, is it hypocrisy to pay my bills. No. Should I do it anyways. Yes.
That is comparing apples and oranges..
That's a very good point thank you because there are days I don't feel like reading the Bible either but then I remember the Scripture that says....PRESS your way towards the mark of your calling so this is proof that we are to force ourselves even when we don't feel like it
OC Redynate they are both fruits
MAN I think you are the smartest person in the world thank you very much because what you said is the second most important thing I have ever heard in my entire life. The bible plainly states, that we should PRESS OUR WAY.
I live in a garbage can so I dont have to worry about that.
1. Make myself do what I ought to do 2.Confess that it's a sin NOT to read the Bible 3. Ask God while Im reading it to give me joy in reading it.
God is the one who opens our minds to understand Scripture. (Luke 24:45)
"Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me." Psalm 51:12
I’m seeing alot of people quoting Luke, motivating me to read the Bible I’m on luke now🙏🙏👍🏻
Amen
John Piper is a wicked man! When you welcome wicked pastors on your program like Creflo Dollar and Kenneth Copeland, then don't listen to them. The wicked honors the wicked. I bash sin, the world comforts sins.
When I was 6 I had a friend, whose mom lived with a woman and this to me was normal I did not see anything wrong. Until God allowed me to read the bible at age 6 to see that He created a man and a woman to multiply the earth that is when I said who am I going to believe. I started to read KJV at the age of 6 to this day every day and now I am 54 I believe God’s Word. I was known as a latchkey kid and only God who is Jesus raised me with His word. I lived in a non-black area and I was treated horribly by many because of prejudice feelings and only through Christ could I understand and forgive their ignorance.
Why would an adult tell a 6 year old horrible things about the color of my skin to make me feel inferior because of her fears. God who is Jesus appeared to me many times and helped me with so much in my life to this day there is no way I would choose the lust of the world knowing God’s way is better. I met my late hubby at the age of 14 became a widow at the age of 24. I raised 3 sons in the Lord who now are in their late 20s early 30s and these young black men put God first, are still virgins, finished college, working at great careers one a teacher, another a chef, and my youngest is a programmer who judges events and they all enjoy what they do plus make a great income.
These young men gave me no drama and honestly lives for God not the world. I never remarried, and I do not live in lust I do not have sex outside the marriage and I refused to go against God’s word. God does say this is possible because His seed is in us and we do not want to sin which this is true. People rather lust in their flesh than live peacefully doing what is right. My parents did not force me to read the bible God used me to save our whole household he used a 7-year-old who read the bible to save our household.
To this day I read the bible daily and apply this to my life which my life is peaceful by the grace of God. Many say the bible is hard to understand this is false they just do not want to read the bible. If a 7-year-old can read the bible and practice what the bible says by the Holy Spirit than anyone can do the same. People go to hell because they rather please their flesh than to please God.
Loved to read your history. So good that the comment even felt short. Truly I feel more inclined to read my bible.
@@gabrielbarbosa7882 all glory be to God you can listen to audio bible gateway I use the kjv dramatize version it takes about 1 week to listen to the entire bible from the beginning to the end . I listen to the bible while I sleep as well
I feel like I’m going through the motions
Me too
We ve all been there
Me too. Pray for me. I’ll pray for you
Definitely going through it
this is so necessary. Psalm 51:12 - Restore to me the joy of Your salvation.
2 Corinthians 10: 5b - bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ...
gah.
The k you. I needed this. I struggle to read and spend time with God, although I am always thinking about God.
Psalm 119: 103-104 NASB "how sweet are Your words to my taste! Yes, Sweeter than honey to my Mouth!
60 years?!!! Wow! I've been studying the Bible for 10 years now and I met Jesus. He transformed my life. What went wrong?
what do you mean what went wrong ?
How's life?
The thing is I don't like reading (I never liked it as a kid), but now I read the word of God I have to make myself stop whatever I'm doing and start reading.
@Son7of7God7 Oh and after the 6 months of studying I sold everything I had and joined an internship in Michigan. I have seen God provide in way's that I am still dumbfounded by lol. I have learned to 'actually' listen to Him, and He has blown my entire understanding of life, reality, and of people. And all I have heard thus far is whispers compared to what is actually there, and available to those who will truly seek Him with their whole heart. He doesnt need your head, He wants your heart.
I was an atheist before I came to Christ (6 months before my 37th bday).
I wanted nothing to do with God, nor the idea of the existence of God; and I HATED reading books, reading ONLY when I absolutely had to for school/college.
I can testify to you today: the evidence of having received the Holy Spirit is INSTANT change in desires.
The moment I experienced genuine sorrow/shame that led to genuine repentance (no intent of ever turning back) God baptized me in Fire!
The MOMENT this happened all I wanted to do was serve Him, and the reading the bible became a delight rather than a chore.
PLEASE. It's not about speaking in tongues. It is GENUINE change in desires (the fruit) that is the evidence of having received the Holy Spirit.
If you have not experienced this, PLEASE, cry out to God for this; that you might be born again!! It is not fairytale! It is NOT pretend! When you are truly born again (that is given the "new heart", the Holy Ghost; Ezekiel 36:26-27), YOU WILL KNOW! 🙏🏿🙏🏿
I Forced myself to read the bible when I wasn't feeling it I usually am good reading the bible and don't mind but it was just one of those days and I remembered that the bible says feed your spirit with God's word I didn't want my spirit to go on hungry so I forced myself to read and IT WAS AMAZING I stopped making it difficult the devil was trying to push me away but when I heard the word of God and read it , It was just so powerful I couldn't stop it was like eating thanksgiving dinner but for your spirit....but if you force yourself to read the bible and it doesn't go well than you should probably stop and pray about it to God
These comments are very encouraging. I keep getting distracted from reading the Bible. I know I should be reading but there’s always something wanting my attention. I used to be so disciplined. While reading it I start thinking of other things.
When l am not eager to read the word of God, l open my bible sometimes to a random page and read what God says to me, it usually takes hold of my spirit and tells me why l should read his word, other times l will go to a chapter that l know will really get my life together!!!
Thanks, I needed this. 🌸
4 He answered, “It is written: Man must not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”` -- Matthew 4:4 (CSB). Do we only eat bread when we feel like it? Or because we need to? Ask yourself that question.
@KaijinDV 1. There's more evidence for the life of Jesus than there is for Abraham Lincoln.
2. To know if a cake recipe is correct follow the instructions. I've tested the promises of Jesus, they are true, my life is evidence.
3. He is not only all loving but also completely JUST. He wont bend the rules. If someone sins the penalty is death. We all should have died but for his mercy in taking our place.
You can experience the greatest phenomenon in all the universe: the love of God.
God will put the desire in your heart to read the bible. Now if you say that you have to read your bible in order to get something else from God and you have to force it then its no longer going to be joyful but a work.
It's strange, but one evening when I got home from work I got my Bible and just started reading from the beginning in the book of Genesis. I have been reading it since and now I am currently reading Proverbs. I don't know what it was that just got me to start reading the Bible. Maybe it was the desire to understand God better. No one is making me read it either and no one in my family has ever read it. So maybe God gave me the desire to read it.
@@strangeroamer3219 Are you being changed?
@@mercyandiewealthisonajourn5243 I finished reading all of it. It did change me in some ways. It definitely changed opinions I had before.
@@strangeroamer3219 Awesome! That's really wonderful to read. I'm glad it changed you, because what's the point of reading it if our thinking is still filthy?
beautifully said, knowlege is wisdom .
John 15 :7 If my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish and it will be done for you. Hiding more words in our hearts strengthens the faith, pray with faith and prayers are answered.
I needed this
O que estou me opondo é, por disciplina e força de vontade, “fazer o que você deve fazer, como ler a bíblia, e pensar que isso por si só é uma virtude, sem qualquer gozo não é uma boa condição para se estar” em vez disso quando você estiver nessa situação apenas use a força de vontade e disciplina para fazer o que deve ser feito, e ao mesmo tempo devemos confessar que somos pecadores desejamos sentir gozo nisso e com Davi dizer: “restaura Senhor em mim, a alegria da salvação”.
I dont have the desire to read the word like I used to and I don’t feel the joy I used to either when I do read…I feel bad that I’m doing this to God that I read to get something out it [like peace and joy] inside of reading to learn and get to know him…it’s very frustrating…any advice from a fellow believer?
@KaijinDV Hey He exists. We talk quite often. Ever since he transformed my life.
The real question is: Do you want to meet Him?
@ndzoko Yah your right. I haven't yet experienced the difficult times. I have not yet resisted to bloodshed striving against sin. I haven't experienced Him hiding His face from me yet. Therefore I haven't had to deal with the issue of whether my faith is genuine or not. But I know I'll have to, and talking to people like you help alot. Im just an infant man. I dont know anything. Im just barely taking my first steps. But it helps to know where the ditches are before-hand. Thanks =)
Those who are in the faith (Christians) that are truly regenerate and born again believers will have a passion geared towards reading and learning the word of God. If someone professes faith in the Lord and has NO passion whatsoever to ever read the word of God, I have to question the fact that they most likely are not converted. To be honest, you have to be converted and given a new heart to receive the bible with passion, no other way.
YOU ARE WRONG, the bible clearly states that we should PRESS OUR WAY. He also said to STRIVE to enter in at the straight gate so you see there is effort there. According to this, it doesn't have to always be an indwelling
I have passion but I feel like I don't get much out if it most of the time I'm only a young Christian so I know I need to mature but something feel off to me I have the right desires but the know how to carry it out
@kenfo0 I agree with everything you said if I could change the words "a sin" to "hypocritical", the word "fascinating" to "horrific" and "good Samaritan story" to "the exodus story".
When the bible is read in context there is no hiding the horrors between it's pages eg: Exodus 22:18 how is it possible to take this social responsibility out of context and how many died because of it.
You may not pick and choose the bits you like. It need not be a somber and ugly experience, but it is.
@naciamaJYute given that wild assumption, sure. i would like to meet him. if i may ask a few questions of you.
1. do you care if what you believe is correct
2. how do you if a claim is correct? (if I were to tell you that the world is flat, how would you be able to tell if i was right or not)
3. what stopped an all powerful loving god from not forgiving sin without a sacrifice?
I always think that if I am forcing myself to do what Christ wants me to. It’s fine to force myself. I mean it’s not always about what you want to do.
I don’t want to work out
Eat healthy
Go to the dr
Go to sleep at 10
Go to work in the morning
But that’s life yo lol
Praise Christ
I use to read and study my Bible and I have drifted away from doing that. I want to read the Bible and I want to study it but I never do, I need help I don’t know what to do. I go to read it and then I get distracted and don’t.
To clarify further there is a difference between murder and killing. For example: our country at least still believes it is OK to "kill" and grievous "murderer". The Bible also has a distinction between the two and much is made by those opposed to the Bible when the two are confused. The Bible also sometimes relates the story of a murder without further comment at that point. It does not mean that therefore the Bible condones murder especially when in other places it clearly condemns it.
@KaijinDV Let me rephrase the question:
Assuming the creator of all things exists and has such concern and love for you that he gives everything including his life to not only spare your life from certain destruction but to provide you with a new life free from fear, worry and death, would you want to meet Him?
BTW if your elephants offer such things i'd like to meet them.
Há muitas vezes em que eu sinto uma grande vontade de ler a bíblia e outras em que meu coração esta direcionado para novos programas de computadores e eu sinto pouco desejo de ler a bíblia. Quando eu estou nesta condição acho que é certo fazer o que deve ser feito, em segundo lugar confessar que isso é pecado, que eu não quero ler a bíblia e perguntar a Deus por que estou nessa condição e pedindo que me dê alegria para fazê-lo.
I'm sure people are capable of reading a psalm or 2, honestly it's the best book in the world, what else is better than knowing your creator , if however you struggle with ADD or something ,get an audio Bible , blessings from Australia ❤️☝🌍🌈☀🔥🌹🕚🔭📝💪💫💯
@Moving2U I know. thanks
The Spirit of God is in me. If I let Him lead me, I am a son of God. If God dwells in me, He should be the one to tell me when (and if) to read Scripture vs doing anything else He wants me to do. He said Spirit lead, not devotional discipline lead
@KaijinDV LOL. OK
1. Yes I care about truth.
2. After proving His promises I take the others (like the resurrection) on faith
How did I test the promises of Jesus?
Here's one occasion:
Phil 4:7, "And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus."
Peace of mind cannot be faked. I prayed in serious trouble. He not only delivered me, most of all the anxiousness, fear and worry was replaced almost immediately by PEACE
Jesus said don’t labor for meat that perishes but for meat that doesn’t perish.
Yes labor to seek God.
Labor to do good.
Labor to pray.
If you love him you keep his commandments.
@ndzoko so the book of acts was written by bishop Eusebius?
@kenfo0 You may PM me if you wish. I will be civil to civil questions and conjectures.
@pricer5 (2) This being is transcendent - meaning it was not a part of our physical universe. Which makes it a non-physical entity. It also means that it doesn't have to abide by our physical universe's rules - since it doesn't even rely on it for its existence. This transcendent non-physical entity or being is also eternal. It also had to have had the power and will to create, otherwise nothing would have been created.
@Son7of7God7 The book of Acts was written by Luke the physician, also the author of the Gospel of Luke.
Às vezes ouvimos as pessoas dizer (reclamar) que não tem desejo de orar ou ler a bíblia, deveria fazer isso forçado se não há alegria no coração? Seria hipócrisia?
Vida em Cristo é feita tanto por disciplina, que requer força de vontade quanto por transbordamento espontâneo de amor a Cristo.
Há uma diferença entre hipocrisia e fazer o que você não sente vontade de fazer. Sendo honesto com as pessoas e com Deus, nesse caso.
It’s so hard to read the Bible to understand it , I Study and watch RUclips for hours from John Piper and Paul washer true man of God! Because I don’t read the Bible and understand it am I singing because I have a hard time to do that ?
@d3ltadrive A great much of the Bible is literal and can be easily understood by the common man (especially with some of these new translations). I say start with the Gospels: Matthew, Mark Luke John. Whats so hard to understand about these books?
Besides how can anyone form a real relationship with Jesus without reading the Bible?
@ndzoko I promise to ponder those words if you'll ponder those of Stephen the Martyr, (during the stoning) "Forgive them Lord, they don't know what they do. Lord Jesus, receive my spirit!"
Thank you, praise God for John Piper.
@kenfo0 I must read the texts, all of them,in order to speak intelligently on the subject. That is called intellectual integrity & is of value to me.
My goal is not to changer your mind but to think critically about the beliefs u hold. Any mind changing done is up to the individual.
I picked 22:18 as it is imposable to be taken out of context. Breaking off from Ox law and the penalties for rape or seduction of virgins the book reads "you shall not suffer a witch to live". Appropriate I thought.
2 most powerful words that you will ever hear to help regarding this subject: HOLY SPIRIT.
God left us the Holy Spirit for many reasons.. one of those reasons is for this particular subject. It’s the will of the Holy Spirit to make our souls burn for Jesus, to help aluminate the scriptures for us, to teach us how to interpret the scriptures, to help us memorize the verses etc. You must ask the Holy Spirit for help in this. That is part of the reason why He is here on earth.. to help us. Oh great Comforter, Oh Great Counselor, we need your peace and guidance. Spirit of the living God, help us.
Well great! Do tell what's better than knowing God.
The Bible implies that those outside of Christ have no peace, no hope, no real future, their final destination death haunting them through life.
If you've found something that addresses all of these please share it.
@ndzoko Im sorry you feel that way my friend. I was an athiest (leaning toward Nihilism) studying Friedrich Nietzche in high school and college. I hated God, and people, and found pride in my ability to debate with, and tear down christians who had little to no understanding. When I even thought of the possibility of this being true you know what I did? I sat in my apartment for 6 months and studied. I sincerely sought. I wanted to know the truth. I was hungry.
God bless John Piper. And God bless me with a double portion of his wisdom.
@ndzoko some differences in Christian worship are honest differences of opinion, while others are just false worship, people who don't read their Bible being lead astray by false teachers. Also Their is nonew testiment verse that read in context promotes killing, and those places in the old testiment were within reason if you understand the context of a fledgling nation that wouldn't survive without God, God gave spicific directions as to who, why, and how!
i can’t focus i have tried 2 times and i just cant do it, i have to any advice?
I recommend to ask God for wisdom and revelation when reading the Bible, ( that is in Ephesians 1:17). ask and believe. :)
@pricer5 You're correct, I'm not arguing that the Christian God is the right God or any of that. I'm simply saying it's not utterly illogical, incoherent, or irrational to call this first cause that has God-like characteristics, "God."
I always have a urge to read the bible but I hate that when I do I get sleepy and bored and don't wanna read no more it's not that I don't wanna spend time with GOD it's just that reading makes me sleep at times
@naciamaJYute the second answer is fine, we know if a claim is true when we test it. and only after proper testing and verification can we determine if a claim is true or not. although i call into question that you've tested if there is an afterlife as youtube doesn't allow the dead to make their own profiles. how exactly did you test the promises of Jesus?
also i would have to disagree with you, the greatest phenomenon in all the universe is actually Star Wars episode 5: The Empire Strikes Back
Hipocrisia é fazer o que você não sente vontade de fazer e querer esconder isso das pessoas, os fazendo achar que você gosta de fazer isso. Honestidade é fazer o que você não gosta de fazer e sentir-se mal por isso e dizer às outras pessoas como você está se sentindo e então pede que orem por você. E dizer a Deus, “eu não me sinto desse jeito” eu quero sentir-me assim.
It does not matter if you have read the bible or continue on reading the bible to be saved , walk in light be one with God , speak truth be peaceful and loving . Be protectors of this world and all of creation , call out evil and wrong doing , Serving the lord does not require continuous indoctrination . Bless to all !
I read the bible every morning before getting out of bed
Additionally, there are many who call themselves Christian in name who have no desire to act like it and have done things contrary to God's instructions. I will not argue for them or those behaviors, only for Christianity as it is clearly explained in the Bible.
So, my first question is: from where did man get his conscience?
I contend that there is an absolute morality and that relative morality, when examined, can be shown to have limited practical use as a guide for our actions.
Ya. I also once read a book on Accounting too and decided it was not for me. I guess the stuff in that book must be a myth too. Thanks for that piece of logic. :-)
please help me I have no joy reading the bible but i force my self to. Something is wrong with why dont i have joy in the bible? How can i read the bible with joy?
what's your relationship with God, like?
Read something your interested in reading I'd recommend psalms and proverbs but also Pray ask God to help you find clarity and diligence in his Word
@ndzoko I make that statement on the basis of your unbelief not of knowledge of your level of understanding. I certainly hope not! I pray that I dont think the way I do now 20 years from now. It would mean that I have become complacent and unwilling to pursue the depths of Christ. It would mean that I have become fat on my own understanding and have exchanged the knowledge of the glory of God for my own "glory". And no its not all positive. Alot of it hurts. But the good far exceeds the hurt.
@rsolano60 It's logical to say there is a God. For example, all physical entity or quantity does not have the reason for its own existence in itself; it has to find its explanation outside of itself. There is no effect without a cause. When this is applied to the origin of the universe, there are two options: matter was either created by a transcendent being, or it just fortuitously sprung out of nothing. And there is nothing more irrational than the idea that something can come from nothing.
@naciamaJYute could you prove that he exists? I mean that would be helpful in meeting him. Obviously.
If we are to take seriously the demands of beings that only seem to make their presence known in the minds of others, then i know of a few flying pink elephants who have some ideas on how to end the debt crisis.
@pricer5 (1) It's not wrong to say "I don't know", unless simple logic can take you further than that conclusion. The universe either fortuitously sprung out of nothing, or it was caused by a transcendent being. This being could not also be an effect, otherwise the chain of cause and effects would keep going back forever - an infinite regress. There had to be a first cause that wasn't an effect. I call it a being because a being is simply a state of existence.
sorry. I was away. I was just making a point. I once asked my skeptical friends that question and they couldn't do it even though it is a key doctrine in scripture. I was showing them if they are to mock Christ they should know what they are talking about.
So let's apply your principle in another area and see how well it works. I have a "superstitious" belief that God commands me not to murder another human being. I first and foremost believe murder is wrong based on my "God" given prejudice. So if I witness someone committing a murder, should I "keep the idea that it is wrong to myself" or should I speak up and be a witness in court to bring the perpetrator to justice?
I think you will agree that all of us should act publicly on our beliefs.
Yes.
Amen
@naciamaJYute i wouldn't find it that odd at all. Coming from a high christian area myself. whether or not I myself believe in any particular claim doesn't mean that that idea can't have a significant effect on my life. If I'm going to have to deal with religious fundamentalists in order to get equal rights for gay couples, then it just makes sense that I find out what they believe and why they believe it rather then try and isolate myself to their views
not wanting to read the bible is robbing yourself of happiness and prosperity.
So, be honest with God, but not with yourself?
LEIAM DE BAIXO PARA CIMA.
@naciamaJYute i understand if you don't want to discuss the rights of our fellow men but if your going to use the bible as a reason for not allowing them to marry, does it not stand that you don't do other things that the bible labels as an abomination, and are also neutral and/or in favor of practices the bible's God was also neutral and/or in favor of?
You will only understand scripture if you have a hunger for truth. Most of you are willing to risk eternity for the pleasure of a few laughs, and the false sense of security that accompanies an unaccountable existence. This truth is not an easy one. But it is glorious! It is not a crutch, but rather disables every crutch and forces you to come to the stark terms of reality. You too will be shaken, and what where will you then find comfort friend?
@ndzoko You arent asked to defend your faith, you are asked to give a reason for the hope that is in you. The countless number of people that have laid their lives down because of this gospel of the "Kingdom" is testimony enough that there is something here. He doesnt want the literate, He wants the hungry. I would venture even to say most theologians dont know Him. Think of the parables. Yeshua hid the truth when teaching but revealed it to His disciples.
All you have to is read the commandments and repent daily
@pricer5 So we have an eternal, transcendent, non-physical, non-contingent being that relies on nothing for its existence, and had the ability and will to create the universe. And we call this being "God."
@pricer5 Those are the only possible scenarios because logically there only are two. The universe had to have had a beginning. Either something caused it (so it was created) or nothing did (it sprang out of nothing). To call this first cause "God" is by no means a stretch if you consider what the nature of this cause. It's transcendent, non-physical, doesn't play by our universe's rules, eternal, entirely self-reliant, powerful, able to create, and willing to create. Sounds like God to me.
explain to me the doctrine of Justification.
You are not guilty!
@clayhutchins Well then, if everything must have an external cause, what is your transcendand being's external cause?... if it doasn't need one, then why not save a step and say that the energy at the big bang (ther was no matter) doasn't need an extarnal cause?
We could actually have a universe out of nothing, there is a rational explanation in youtube by the renown Phisicist lawrence .
Moreso, we should see it as spiritual discipline. The flesh is weak therefore we must always seek to be disciplined in the things of God not of the flesh
Read God's Word in the Bible or Quran or Baha'i Writings etc. is healthy- "Immerse yourselves in the ocean of My words, that ye may unravel its secrets, and discover all the pearls of wisdom that lie hid in its depths." ~ Baha'u'llah
What tells you it is the "right" thing to do? Where does your "common humanity" get the idea of what is "good" or "bad"? For a more thorough examination of this concept than I have time for here I suggest you read C.S. Lewis' "Mere Christianity." You might discover there are deep thinking Christians whose arguments are far from being "pigeons". Unless you're not up to that challenge.
It’s a sin to not read the Bible? Where does It say that in scripture?
how can you know more of Gods word if you dont read it? its easy to fall back into the world. satan keeps us distracted and we forget about God.
@@Godovereverything8 yes you're right this comment is really old God bless.
We all have sinned and fell short of the glory to God. The problem is, that God is holy and doesn’t live with sin. So we all deserve to go to hell, but Jesus paid the price so you don’t have to!!All you have to do is confess Jesus as your savior and repent (turn from ALL sin) and you can have eternal life!
*from the hatred of God through the nature of man without grace.
@naciamaJYute I notice that you didn't actually answer the questions asked. you'd make a successful politician
the first one is a simple yes or no question, whether you care if what you believe (all beliefs not just the divinity of Jesus Christ) is actually correct
Who would dislike this? 29 people need to rewatch it lol
@naciamaJYute actually Christ hasn't had an effect on my life, Jesus (if he existed) lived and died 2 thousand years ago, but I have been in contact with his followers. as an atheist I couldn't join the boy scouts as a kid because according to them i can't "grow into the best kind of citizen without recognizing an obligation to God". While I was living in Utah i couldn't buy alcohol on Sundays. its not so much jesus, as it is people doing ignorant and bigoted things in his name
Look up cross examined
@rsolano60 Give me the simple, basic, most compelling facts and evidences that led you to believe that something can come from nothing. And if you can't do so without checking back to the 64 minute video of Lawrence, it further proves you weren't really convinced of anything.
also, even if you do believe this (your comment, that is), there is a difference between "telling the truth" and the truth...
Read proverbs 7, you would love it, hey Go go and read. Yes, I'm speaking to you...
Yeah the adulterous woman she has slain down many strong men
I agree that being honest with yourself is a necessary step I don't believe the bible is fun to read and I disagree with any presumption that one does not read his bible therefore he isn't saved the bible is difficult to read sometimes it is in many ways an enigma people it frustrates me that even when I've prayed for understanding of the bible that still eludes me in the end I think if you find joy you either have never suffered and therefore are gullible and presumptuous or you have suffered and it now has new meaning about 90% of christianity will be in hell one day because they are living lies the bible isn't fun to read it tells you the truth of yourself and from what I can see both in people and in the bible is that nobody I know except 1 person will be in heaven