The Bible can change even the most evil person into someone beloved of both God and man. It can do this because it is the Word of God, and God desires to change us into His image, from bad to great, from poor to rich, from sick to well. Below are some of my favorite verses, along with personal stories of how they have affected me.
1. Romans 11:29
This verse states that “the gifts and calling of God are irrevocable.” In my life, I have literally walked away from God a few times, after receiving the call of God on my life at a young age. I usually thought I could do better than the Almighty Creator. I love this verse, because it reminds me that, even though I may falter and fail, my God has a plan for me that I cannot prevent, although I have delayed it a few times.
2. Proverbs 18:10
This verse says that “The Name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” Recently, someone threw a brick into the window of my van and stole my wife’s purse. I remembered this verse and held onto my Strong Tower. Not only was I at peace about the situation, but a few hours later, the police recovered my wife’s purse. The only thing missing was a bank card (which we had already cancelled) and a kid’s wallet with about $2.00 change. He proved Himself to me, providing safety for me and my possessions.
3. 2 Chronicles 32:7
This verse says “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid and discouraged because of the King of Assyria and the vast army with him, for their is a greater power with us than with him.” When I grow discouraged or disappointed at not getting a job interview or not receiving that promotion I had hoped for, I remember this verse. Things seem stacked up against me at times, but God and His power is with me and it is greater than all these things that seem so overwhelming.
4. 1 John 3:1
“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” Growing up in a single-parent household with my mom, this verse has held a great deal of meaning for me. Not only is God my Father, but He loves me and always will! I am His child!
5. Hebrews 2:14
“Since the children have flesh and blood, He too shared in their humanity so that by His death He might destroy him who holds the power of death – that is the devil.” This assures me that there is no problem that my Savior cannot handle. He already handled all of them and I just have to learn to trust Him more.