I Knew That

(2 Timothy 3:16 KJV)  All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:

As I read through the Journals of John Wesley I keep coming across his sermon texts.  It is amazing how often he will quote some passage I had not heard for awhile and it seems so fresh.  As I listen I realize that I knew that verse but I had not thought about it for a long time. 

Why does Proverbs repeat themes so often?  Why is it good to re-read passages of scripture.  It would seem that the constant references to wisdom sometimes get boring.  Maybe so, but that does not mean that we don’t need to be reminded.  God puts words and topics where they are for a reason.

Think about the letters of Paul.  He did not sit around like he was writing a blog and ask, “What shall I write about today?”  I don’t think he ever had writers block.  Why?  Because everything you read in one of his letters is a response to a very real issue in the early church.  The early church had problems with adultery, gossip, heresy, greed, pride,...the list goes on. 

So?  When you read realize that the words are there for a reason.  It is part of the mystery of inspiration that the words were written for someone centuries ago and are also fresh and needed for you today.  Read, think, obey, rejoice.