You Don’t Have To Settle For Second Best!

Did you stop to think about how many times the word ‘you’ appears in the Bible? 

Interestingly, the word “you” is used approximately 14,480 times in the NIV Bible. Why is that such an important thing?

Somebody said the Bible is a Love Letter that God is writing to mankind. The word ‘you’ implies a direct reference to the reader. It is personal and direct. It signifies relationship and intimacy.

God’s nature is loving and merciful and like a living parent, He desires the best for each and every individual. It is not His will that any should perish. In 2 Peter 3:9 it says, “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”

When you come into relationship with God, you grow in His character and nature. You learn to be more loving and tolerant and prioritise the needs of others. This makes you a ‘likeable’ person. You radiate the goodness of God. In 1 John 4:8 it says, “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.”

In seeking a deeper relationship with God, the focus shifts from ‘selfish’ needs and desires to ‘selfless’ acts of service to others. One might think, ‘what is the point of all this?’ The more you grow in being a mirror of your Creator, the more you resemble His nature. You get deep satisfaction and joy that momentary treasures cannot buy. In Proverbs 10:28 it says, “The prospect of the righteous is joy, but the hopes of the wicked come to nothing.” You live a life of meaning and beauty.

See ‘you’ from a Godly perspective:

Y- yourself last

O – others first

U – understanding God’s nature

So, do good to others and find favour with God. Your reward may not be in this earth but it is guaranteed in heaven. In I Corinthians 2:9 it says, “However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived”- the things God has prepared for those who love him. Put this to the test and see for yourself. ◊

Linda Pearl