‘Bible Gazers’
Editorial by Dave Weigley
Being sheltered in place during the pandemic means I get to walk my dogs every morning and evening. At night, I have discovered anew the starry heavens, and, thanks to an app on my phone, I am able to view stars with constellation descriptions. One in particular has caught my eye—Polaris, the North Star—which appears to maintain its position, providing an excellent reference for direction.
In writing about the North Star, Harvard University Professor Bill George, author of the book True North, notes that our lives should be principle-centered, embracing stellar values that guide us. I like that!
TRUE NORTH STAR
In our personal spiritual walk, the Bible is like the North Star—a constant in our lives. Its God-given wisdom and counsel are applicable in every major decision we make. While others might wonder about the future—in light of the current pandemic, violent storms, drought and devastating wildfires—“Bible gazers” find clear answers in its prophetic projections. “For prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Spirit” (2 Pet. 1:21, NKJV).
Scripture also informs our corporate beliefs regarding salvation, grace, the work of the Holy Spirit, the doctrine of the church, the second coming of Christ, etc. As New Testament writer Jude stated, “I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints” (Jude 1:3, NKJV). This is the faith—the only faith— we are admonished to uphold.
Furthermore, Ellen White says, “The Holy Scriptures are to be accepted as an authoritative, infallible revelation of His will. They are the standard of character, the revealer of doctrines, and the test of experience. ‘Every scripture inspired of God is also profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for instruction which is in righteousness; that the man of God may be complete, furnished completely unto every good work’ 2 Timothy 3:16, 17, R.V.” (The Great Controversy, vii.1).
As we begin 2021—the Columbia Union Conference Year of the Bible—please join our union family in making the Bible your “North Star”—that guiding light to brighten your path as we journey together toward the kingdom.
Dave Weigley is president of the Columbia Union Conference.
Read the "Words of Life" Devotionals
- January 1: Put God First
- January 2: Light in the Darkness
- January 3: Live by Faith
- January 4: Prisoners of Praise
- January 5: Pushing Back Against Spiritual Distancing
- January 6:The Phone Call
- January 7: Just Ask
- January 8: Find Home
- January 9: Joy is a Promise
- January 10: Just the Boost I Needed
Join the Journey
To help you dig deeper into God’s Holy Word this year, we’re offering:
- Every Day—Read our Words of Life daily devotional book that features favorite Bible verses from members, pastors, students and leaders from across the Columbia Union. You can also read the devotionals on the Columbia Union app, and interact with the verses in our instagram stories.
- Every Week—Delivered straight to your email, read our e-newsletter by subscribing to Visitor News Bulletin at columbiaunionvisitor.com/vnb. Keep up with the latest Year of the Bible events, devotionals, videos and more.
- Every Month—This calendar, themed “Words of Life,” coincides with the devotional book and videos. It features a biblical topic and verse each month, with additional passages for further exploration, study and ideas on how to apply the concepts in your daily life.
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