The Bible has been translated into hundreds of languages, including one you might not think of. In his book, Primal, Mark Batterson says, “Obedience is the way your life becomes a unique translation of the Bible.” Your life is a translation! He urges Christians to put into practice the positive action verses of God’s Word. “What if, every time we came across a verse that told us to do something, we thoughtfully and prayerfully figured out a way to translate it with our lives?” As we begin a study of Psalm 119 at Shepherd, we see the same thing from that ancient but always relevant author. “I have hidden your word in my heart…teach me your decrees…I have recited aloud all the regulations you have given us.” Maybe “recited aloud” could also mean, “lived out loud.” He translated God’s truth by openly walking God’s path with intention.
When we walk the holy path the Lord has set before us, we can truly be a living translation of the Bible. What a privilege that the Lord might use us to speak with His breath, hold others with His arms, support others with His compassionate heart. One of the earliest books of the Bible, Deuteronomy, recounts God giving Moses the Ten Commandments. The people are in awe and afraid, but fully committed to listening and obeying God Almighty. The Lord says to Moses, “Oh, that they would always have hearts like this, that they might fear me and obey all my commands! If they did, they and their descendants would prosper forever.” Hearts like this. Here we are, in the Promised Land, friends. May our unique translation bless others and bring our Father glory and joy! ~Tracy