5 of My Favorite Scriptures

If you've ever been through a crisis of any kind and have decided to pick up the Bible to help soothe your mind, you will know the peace that I've experienced from examining the following scriptures. I have too many favorite scriptures to list and share. However, I've outlined 5 of them, 2 of which are in a Bible book that is not read often by many: the book of Philippians.

John 3:16
"For God loved the world so much that he gave his only begotten Son, in order that everyone exercising faith in him might not be destroyed but have everlasting life"

This scripture is well known by many, however, most don't really examine this scripture fully to understand what it truly entails. This scripture outlines how much love God has for us. He is not a God of hate. Many forget the word ransom is used for a reason here. When a ransom is required, it's given to obtain something or someone that has been lost. In this case a perfect man (Jesus) was needed to restore what another perfect man (Adam) had lost. God knew that we would need a ransom to gain back what Adam lost (everlasting life) and lovingly did so by providing his son Jesus Christ. To be the "only begotten son" is also a portion of the scripture that many overlook. God begot or created Jesus as his first spirit son and did so by himself; they are therefore not one and the same. Afterward, Jesus assisted his father in creating all other things; thus he is the "only begotten son". Do research on the words: "only begotten son", to appreciate this powerful scripture a bit better.

Philippians 2:5-6
"Keep this mental attitude in you that was also in the Christ Jesus who, although he was existing in God's form, gave no consideration to a seizure, namely that he should be equal to God"

This scripture is very important to me, as it supports everything written in the aforementioned scripture at John 3:16 regarding the fact that Jesus was created by God and is his son. It also highlights the need for humility if we are to imitate Christ Jesus. We must remember that being a Christian means to be Christ like or be like Jesus Christ. The scriptures are very clear and detailed regarding Jesus' life and ministry, however, not once did Jesus ever say he was God. In fact he often told his disciples that he came to do the will of his Father that sent him to earth and not his own will. Jesus, although perfect, was humble and we can learn a great deal from this scripture that says, he didn't even think of giving consideration to a "seizure" or acting unwell and proclaim that he was God. Many religious leaders can take an example from this and maintain the Christ like humility that Jesus so aptly demonstrated.

John 8:32
"and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free"

This scripture really says it all. Once you know the truth about anything, you are set free from misinformation and/or fear that others might spout regarding the subject. It's even more important when it comes to Biblical truths. Over the years, I have learned about many Christian and non-Christian religions and I must say, studying the Bible has always brought me the inner joy and peace that is longed for by many. I have a personal saying and it is simply this: "I don't argue truth" and that means when I've done my own research and learned that something is fact, I won't argue with anyone about it. This is especially applicable for me when it comes to Biblical truths. Christians should be able to discuss the Bible in an enjoyable manner. "There is no room for the belligerent in a Bible conversation". I just made that saying up too, feel free to use it.

Philippians 4:6-7
"Do not be anxious over anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving let your petitions be made known to God and the peace of God that excels all thought will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus"

In these troubling times that we live in, who would not benefit from the "peace of mind that excels all thought"? It's so comforting to know that we have a great privilege of prayer that no one can take from us. No matter what you or your loved ones are going through, you can always pray for "peace of mind". It is now known that the mind can block out horrible events that people suffer to allow them to continue to function in a mental space that doesn't continually reference the trauma. Now add to that the ability to also ask God for his perfect peace of mind in any situation. If you talk to faithful Christians, many will tell you they have experienced that peace of mind even during the most trying situations. Knowing that everyone has that same opportunity is truly a blessing and a comfort.

Revelation 21:4
"And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away."

This is one of my favorite scriptures because it speaks to something that everyone wants and that's life without pain, sorrow and suffering. The scripture doesn't just outline a wish, but definitively states that God will wipe out the hurtful things that take place and even the last enemy: death will be no more! Many believe that death is a part of life, but isn't that an oxy moron? Human death was never intended to be natural or the eventual outcome of our existence. Here's a simple exercise that will prove this fact: ask anyone you know, with a sound mind, what day and time they want to die. Just ask them and when you get a crazy look, just know there's a reason for that. No one wants to die, it's not in us to desire that outcome. God created in us the desire for ever lasting life in beautiful surroundings, it's in our hearts. Even Jesus Christ himself shed tears when his dear friend Lazurus died and he had the power to resurrect Lazurus (which he later did), however, it just shows how unnatural death is and that it was not part of the original plan for human kind. The resurrection of Lazurus also showed that there will be a resurrection on a grander scale in the future, but I digress, lest I mention several more of my favorite scriptures. It's so wonderful to know that the last book of the Bible is filled with hope as well as prophesy regarding a time when the world will be restored to the wonderful way God intended. If you have created a loving home for your family, would you let a few wayward people destroy it and ruin it until it was unrecognizable and not even inhabitable for your family? Not if it was in your power you wouldn't and God will not stand for the ruination of the earth either. There is nothing like our wonderful planet and it won't be destroyed.

However after reading such beautiful and comforting scriptures you might wonder: "If God is so loving, why has He allowed wickedness for so long?" This is a valid question and I welcome all who truly want to know the answer to please feel free to contact me. I love talking about the Bible and there is a Biblical answer to that question and many others and we can find it together. I also encourage everyone to study the Bible for themselves and ask questions with a open heart and mind, just as you would approach any other subject of interest. In the mean time, pick up a Bible and find your favorite five scriptures, it's an activity that is guaranteed to bring you calm and serenity now and hopefully everlasting life in the future.