If you know me, you know that I’m a Bible junkie. I LOVE the Bible. I drink the stuff for breakfast. I’m nearing the end of another summer of reading the Bible in 90 Days. And let’s be honest: parts of the Bible smell funny. Sometimes the Bible says things that are out in left field, more than seven days past the expiration date printed on the carton. Take slavery, for instance. Please: take it away! Yet in today’s reading the Bible talks about slavery like it is no big deal. What do we do with that? Well, before we look at Ephesians 6:5-9, I want to review some basic tools for how we read the Bible, including “the smell test.” So grab your Bible, put on your thinking cap, and let’s begin with this beautiful prayer about God’s word in Psalm 119:
Your statutes are wonderful;
therefore I obey them.
130 The unfolding of your words gives light;
it gives understanding to the simple.
131 I open my mouth and pant,
longing for your commands.
132 Turn to me and have mercy on me,
as you always do to those who love your name.
133 Direct my footsteps according to your word;
let no sin rule over me.
134 Redeem me from human oppression,
that I may obey your precepts.
135 Make your face shine on your servant
and teach me your decrees. Amen.