DANIEL 9:1-2 : In the first year of Darius the son of Ahasuerus, of the lineage of the Medes, who was made king over the realm of the Chaldeans – in the first year of his reign I, Daniel, understood by the books the number of the years specified by the word of the LORD, given through Jeremiah the prophet, that He would accomplish seventy years in the desolations of Jerusalem.
John Wanamaker, an outstanding American businessman of the 19th century, put together one of the most successful careers of his time. When asked what he considered the best investment he ever made, he replied, “I have made large purchases of property in my life time involving millions of dollars, But when I was only 11 years old, I made my biggest purchase of all. From my teacher in a little mission Sunday school, I bought a small, red leather Bible. It cost me $2.75. I paid in small installments from my own money that I had earned.” John Wanamaker knew the value of the Bible and he lived by it.
Daniel also knew the value of God’s Word. While he was studying the “books” (among which was the Book of Jeremiah), he realized God had set a limit on Israel’s captivity.
While some assumed the Jewish people would never return to their home land, Daniel discovered in Jeremiah that God had ordained a period of 70 years for the fulfillment of Israel’s chastisement.
What a joy and encouragement this must have been for the elderly prophet. God had not forsaken His people; Israel would flourish again as a nation.
Much of the Bible has similar solace for God’s people. It offers words of comfort (John 14: 1-3), joy (1 John 1:4), encouragement (lsa. 41:10) and instruction (Matt.28:19-20).
When we fail to make the Scriptures a daily part of our lives, we miss the greatest resource for living we have been given. Are you wondering what to do with your life? Are you afraid and uncertain about the future? Are you troubled by guilt and regrets? The Bible has just what you need — answers.
Purchasing a Bible is the best investment you’ll ever make. Reading it is the best use of your time.
THERE ARE MANY BOOKS, BUT ONLY ONE CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE.