Dear Redeeming Grace,

As we move towards the end of the first week of a new year, many of us may have started a Bible reading plan again, or perhaps for the first time. Some may be running strong, while for others there may already be temptations to feel guilty for not measuring up to their goals.

Regardless of what plan you do or don't use, or how well you've gotten out of the starting blocks this week, the truth is that God is pleased with you in Christ and he wants good for you. He designed you for fellowship with himself and he's given us his Word for many purposes.

If you need some encouragement as to how God acts in your life through his Word, Psalm 19:7-8 gives us a taste.

The law of the LORD is perfect, reviving the soul;
the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple;
the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes;

When God speaks to us through his Word, he gives our soul life and new strength. He gives us wisdom where we lack it. He makes our heart overflow with joy. He gives us light to see.

May the goodness of how God wants to use his Word in our lives lead us to take it up, hear his voice and enjoy Him as we do.