Optics

While recommended never to use clichés in writing, and since I already opened the devotion last week with one, I ask that you indulge me one more time to make a point. “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” Now for a confession—many times I have chosen to read a book simply because the cover was appealing. Yes, I know, this philosophy is the wrong approach when seeking good literature; however, book publishers spend a lot of money to produce book covers that are attractive and will entice a potential reader to purchase their product. Clearly, the theory works with me and maybe it works with you too. Even still, though bright colors and artistic graphics on the front and back cover appeal to the senses, they do not always translate to the best stories inside.

Contrary to the clever and glitzy book cover philosophy, one book that needs no embellishments to promote its popularity and according to Guinness Book of World Records “as of 1995, the Bible is the best-selling book of all time with an estimated 5 billion copies sold and distributed.” The Bible is unique to the reader in that no matter how many times one opens and reads, the words within offer transforming power. For over 2000 years, the Bible has needed no revision to strengthen its appeal and grow its readership. The Scripture passage in Psalm 1 indicates that whoever reads the Bible, God’s Word, is “blessed.” The printed words on each page have life-giving properties. Hebrews 4:12 states, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit” (NIV).

Every day, books are added to the “best seller list,” and then, eventually, they fall off and new books take their place. The Holy Bible will never lose its appeal because its Author is the Creator of words and Creator of all life. Take time to open your Bible today. I promise, that if you do, you will not be disappointed, you will never lose interest, and you will never be the same.