January 26: Enlightenment

The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. - Psalm 19:8

In your daily Bible reading, have there been times when certain words appeared to jump off the page in neon colors? Not literally, of course, but in terms of impact. Perhaps it was just a simple phrase, but it was what you needed, and it provided a boost you've never forgotten.

The psalmist says that God's Word enlightens our eyes. Ezra 9:8 says that God gives grace to "enlighten our eyes and give us a measure of revival." Paul told his friends he was praying that their understanding would be enlightened so they would know "what is the hope of His calling" (Ephesians 1:18).

"There is nothing like reading an illuminated Bible," said Charles Spurgeon. "You may read to all eternity, and never learn anything by it, unless it is illuminated by the Spirit; and then the words shine forth like stars. The book seems made of gold leaf; every single letter glitters like a diamond. Oh, it is a blessed thing to read an illuminated Bible lit up by the radiance of the Holy Ghost."

This year, read God's Word prayerfully and expectantly. 

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Let me tell you a little secret: whenever you cannot understand a text, open your Bible, bend your knee, and pray over that text. - Charles H. Spurgeon