October 2023 Student Minister’s Note

by Lilly Hunter

In the youth group, we just began a yearlong study of the entire Bible. While many of us grew up knowing the stories of Scripture and the general meta-narrative of redemption, to the majority of the students we have these stories are completely new.

Each week there are students that are astounded at the way God works through broken people and families, and simply in awe of the incredible words of Scripture. After every lesson someone will say“Oh, what happens next?” “You can’t leave me on a cliffhanger, where can I read this week?” or simply “Are you serious?? I never knew the Bible said stuff like that!” These students have reminded me of the joy and wonder that is to be found in a study of God’s word.

In Pslam 119:17-24 the psalmist says:

17 Be good to your servant while I live, that I may obey your word.

18 Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law.

19 I am a stranger on earth;

do not hide your commands from me.

20 My soul is consumed with longing

for your laws at all times.

21 You rebuke the arrogant,

who are accursed,

those who stray from your commands.

22 Remove from me their scorn and contempt,

for I keep your statutes. 23 Though rulers sit together and slander me,

your servant will meditate on your decrees.

24 Your statutes are my delight; they are my counselors.

The word of God is not only for instruction and rebuke — it is wonderful, it is enlightening, it is truly the words of life.

Our incredible God of Abundance had revealed Himself through the masterpiece that is Scripture and invited us to meditate in these stories and statutes that we may become more like Him.

As you open your Bible this month, pray along with me to view the stories with fresh eyes. Inject a childlike wonder to your study and allow God to show you his improbable grace and mercy among the stories of broken people just like us. Through these stories, we see glimpses of the impossible grace offered to us through Jesus Christ. Allow meditation of the Word to refresh your soul this month!