Man In The Mirror

For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like.

James 1:23–24

The Bible has much to say about how we should live. It is divinely inspired text that contains absolute truth and wisdom that’s as relevant for us today as it was when God breathed it into existence.

“All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16–17 ESV).”

So it’s understandable that with so much packed into one book, it might take some effort not just to read it but effectively apply its teachings to our lives. One often overlooked tactic of unlocking the power of scripture is the simple act of reflection. When we read the Holy Scriptures, we need to make time in our busy lives to seriously think about not only what it says, but its implication for our lives.

Remember, the Bible is God’s Word. He speaks to us through scripture. If someone you looked up to and admired told you something that would help you emulate their success, not only would you pay attention but you’d likely take notes and refer back to them often. We should think of the Bible in a similar way. Don’t just half-heartedly read your Bible and then check it off your to-do list. Dive deep into His Word and thoughtfully reflect upon its meaning. And don’t just do this once. Revisit passages that have jumped out at you in the past and reevaluate them with fresh eyes.

When we allow the message of God’s Word to sink into our hearts and mind, it will meet us wherever we are in life.

“It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life (John 6:63 ESV).”

It shows us who God is and who we are as children of God. It transforms our hearts. It makes sense of our fallen world, helping us discern what is of God and what is of man. And it can cut to the heart of any matter we’re facing in life. So we shouldn’t just read the Bible, we should let it speak to our innermost being.

“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart (Hebrews 4:12 ESV).”

Have you noticed a change in your behavior and attitudes? If not, consider this message and ways you could more intentionally reflect on what God might be trying to say to you. 

Today’s author: Mark Henderson—Founder of The Inspired Legacy

Mark is a creative professional with more than 20 years of experience in the fields of web design and advertising. He also serves as the chief content officer at The Inspired Legacy, an online ministry dedicated to shining a light on God’s gift of parenthood. The organization aims to inspire and equip fathers to boldly lead their families, love their kids unconditionally, and leave a legacy of grown children that carry on these same traditions. Mark resides in Sioux Falls, South Dakota with his wife, Kimberly. Together, they have three children, two girls, and one boy.