A Fine Tribute

by Rev Greg Obong-Oshotse 9 October 2020

Text: Psalm 119:105 “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”

Over the years people have tried in vain to find the author of one of the finest tributes to the Bible outside the sacred text itself. Used as the preface to the Gideons’ Bible it says:

“The Bible contains the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and its decisions are immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you. It is the traveller’s map, the pilgrim’s staff, the pilot’s compass, the soldier’s sword, and the Christian’s charter. Here Paradise is restored, Heaven opened, and the gates of hell disclosed. CHRIST is its grand subject, our good the design, and the glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart, and guide the feet. Read it slowly, frequently, and prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure. It is given you in life, will be opened at the judgment, and be remembered forever. It involves the highest responsibility, will reward the greatest labour, and will condemn all who trifle with its sacred contents.”

Each phrase is weighty, each word well chosen, each paragraph well rounded, and every thought a precious doctrinal nugget. It is at once a piece of lyrical excellence and a treasure trove of sound theological wisdom. The tribute is important because what you think of the Bible determines your relationship with God. Like the Psalmist, this author thinks very highly of the Scriptures. Perhaps you want to give writing a tribute a try to gauge your thoughts?

Prayer

Dear Father thank You for giving us such a wonderful map for our journey home in Christ’s name, Amen.