During the month of October we will be focusing on valuing the word of God. Some of the topics we will teach and talk about in small groups are reading the Word, meditating on the Word, praying through the Word, living by the Word and treasuring the Word as a vital resource to spiritual life. I'm looking forward to seeing what God will do as He transforms our thinking by renewing our minds. At EVC, we believe this is best accomplished through small group interaction. Gathering together in groups to study God's word together and pray for one another is an important component of our vision. Let me encourage you to join one of our small groups if you haven't already done so. A few years ago I came across an anonymous paragraph that beautifully describes the value of God's word in each of our lives. It's simply called, The Bible.
"This book contains: the mind of God, the state of man, the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and the happiness of believers.
It's doctrine is holy, it's precepts are binding, it's histories are true, and its decisions are immutable. Read it to be wise, believe it to be saved, and practice it to be holy.
It contains light to direct you, food to support you, and comfort to cheer you. It's the travelers map, the pilgrim's staff, the pilot's compass, the soldier's sword, and the Christian's charter. Here heaven is open and the gates of hell are disclosed.
Christ is the grand subject, our good its design, and the glory of God its end. It should fill the memory, rule the heart and guide the feet.
Read it slowly, frequently and prayerfully. It is a mine of wealth, health to the soul and a river of pleasure. It is given to you here in this life, will be opened at judgment, and is established forever.
It involves the highest responsibility, will reward the greatest labor, and condemn all who trifle with its contents."

There's no book like the Bible. May God be glorified and may the Spirit be our guide as we tour through the Word of God together!
Blessings,
Pastor Tim