A Delight

Many may know the famous Christmas hymn Joy to the World. A few may know the author, Isaac Watts; but very few know anything about the Senior Isaac Watts. The elder Watts was a man of principles and faith that was often separated him from family because he his stanch faith landed him in prison. In 1865, while in prison, he wrote a letter to his family directing part of it to his eleven-year-old son, Isaac. The next few articles will address the charge that Senior Isaac directed to his son. They are wise thoughts that all should take to heart!

Frequently read the Holy Scriptures, and that not as a task but as a delight. –Isaac Watts, Senior

Anyone that has every attended a Bible believing/teaching/preaching church knows that they should read their Bible. Usually at the beginning of a new year, pastors give a challenge to their congregations to read though the Bible the next year. Something I encourage all believers to do. But what caught my attention in this charge is the part "and that not as a task but as a delight." All too often the reading of the Bible is viewed as a task and not a delight. We must be cautious when reading the Word of God to approach it as a joy and not a job.

The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward. Psalms 19:7-11


With that being said, may we encourage you to take our challenge and read through the Bible in 2012. You can join others in the quest at Read Through the Bible in 2012.