Put a Bible in Their Hands!

Our society of privilege pushes and promotes seemingly “essential” material items into our lives. Companies regularly introduce the newest, hottest replacement item for the gadget we overpaid for last year, and without objection, we believe we have to have it. We might buy it ourselves, add it to our Christmas list, or hope that we can hang on to a girlfriend long enough to receive it for a two-month anniversary gift. Whatever the method, these “essentials” end up in our hands to fulfill our entertainment needs. But what about our eternal needs? 

Even as I write, I’m typing on a Mac computer that I deemed an absolutely necessity for work. (Interestingly, there are three Mac “necessities” on my desk.) I glance at my year-old cell phone on the charger, and remember that just this morning I was considering a possible upgrade. Yesterday I noticed my bookshelves—cluttered with funny, pointless knick-knacks. But amongst all the stuff, I spotted a Bible that I received when I was 8 years old. It was a Christmas gift in 1993. Its worn-out binding is now held together with duct tape, and the once- gold lettering is invisible now. Clearly, this Bible has seen better days. Looking at the book, I realized that most of the stuff that I’ve received since 1993—all those things I hoped for and dreamed about—are long-forgotten. I don’t know where those things I once treasured have gone—whether they’ve broken, been sold at a garage sale, trashed… Wherever it all is, it’s not important. Yet, this Bible still is! I can thumb through different chapters and remember how God worked on me. Memories of church retreats, sermons, personal studies come to mind. I am reminded of the time when I walked the aisle to commit myself to vocational ministry, carrying this very book in my hands. I remember leading someone to the Lord with this Bible. I’m wowed when I remember how God used this book to change my life. Of all the things I could have received in 1993, my parents put a Bible in my hand. I’m grateful for that Bible. In fact, it may have been the most meaningful gift I have ever received. 

Parents, consider putting a Bible in your student’s hands. While many of this year’s treasures become next year’s trash, the Word of the Lord is unchanging in its value. Give a gift that can change their life!

Hebrews 4:12 “But the word of God is living and powerful.”