This week we are looking into the importance of God’s Word as well as some of the goodies we are rewarded with when we open the book. First, we had an overview of the 5 books of Law. Yesterday we considered the 12 books of History, so today we are up to the 5 books of Poetry.
When I was a school kid eating up my history classes, I was yawning during my poetry course. And, I still haven’t matured enough to really enjoy a ‘good book of poetry’ whatever that means. However, I truly love opening up my Bible to these inspired books of poetry. So many times when I reach for my Bible – it is to the books of Poetry that I go, and I am not disappointed.
Often when reading the books of law and history you get the facts of the events. And from there you can piece together the likely thoughts or emotions of the characters and what their relationship with God was like at the time. But, in many of the books of poetry you get the poet’s raw emotion: disappointment, anger, depression, elation, thankfulness, etc… And, through it all – God is there. Along with the poet’s emotion, you get to read of his personal testimony of God’s faithfulness. Psalm 13 is one short example – it starts out with quite a bit of pain and anguish and questions for God – but it ends with a beautiful statement of God’s unfailing love and goodness.
I really appreciated Andrew Cheatwood’s devotions two weeks ago when he wrote candidly about his struggle with spiritual depression and the help he found in the Psalms. I applaud his wisdom in looking to God’s Word.
Here’s a brief overview of the 5 books of Poetry
JOB – Suffering, But Still Trusting
Satan attacks Job. He loses everything except his trust in God – and that is enough. He prospers again, even more than before.
PSALMS – Jewish Songbook
Songs, prayers and praises to God in poetry. The longest book of the Bible, mostly written by David. Psalm 119 is the longest chapter in the Bible – all about the greatness of the Word of God
PROVERBS – Wisdom!
Wise King Solomon shares his wisdom on many matters: work, money, temptation, discipline, etc…These 31 chapters can be read one chapter a day every month and you will find yourself a wiser person.
ECCLESIASTES – Search for the Meaning of Life
Solomon found pleasures, riches, and fame don’t satisfy. Instead, revere God, follow Him and let God be God
SONG OF SOLOMON – Love Songs
Poems by Solomon celebrating the beauty of married love, also called Song of Songs
Which is your favorite book of Poetry? Go ahead – read some God-inspired poetry today!
Marcia Railton
