The Christmas eve service at my church was beautiful. Several men read from scripture about Christ's birth. On the way home, I was thinking how much I love to hear scripture - how much I love the Bible. It was then I heard God whisper, "Yes, but do you love Me?" What? Of course I love God. I devote all my heart, soul, and strength to Him. But I knew that wasn't what He was really asking me.

We can become fascinated with the beauty and wonders of the Bible. The Book is full of great truths of theology and principals for living. Even the style and structure of scripture is captivating. I knew I often thrived on an ability to explain the Bible to others, to sort out the doctrines, and to apply it's principals for those who need direction. But in this enthusiasm for exploring scripture and seeking all these treasures am I missing the treasure: God Himself. In the process of mastering the Book am I missing the Person?

There is nothing wrong with going to the Bible for wisdom, direction, comfort, or theology. The Bible openly advertises it's practical benefits as "teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness." (2 Timothy 3:16). But there is something more - something even better than the timeless truths. Second Timothy 3:16 also says, "All scripture is God-breathed." As we read the Bible we can feel Him near us. We can hear Him speak to us. And often, this encounter with God is what we need the most.