Everyday I read four chapters of the Bible, but must confess I don’t always give those chapters the attention God deserves. Yesterday I preached on 1 Peter 2:2-10. One phrase, “if indeed that you have tasted that the Lord is good” really captured my attention. Peter uses numerous Old Testament references, so, I find it highly likely that he had in mind Psalm 34:8a, “Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good.” Tasting is such a specific term, it implies focused intentional attention in order to judge or weigh the merit of something. When I ask my wife to taste chili that I have simmering on the stove, what I am really saying is, “Slow down. Give me your full attention and let me know if this is any good. Does it need something else?”
Do you taste God’s goodness?
Do you slow down?
Do you savor the flavor of who God is?
This morning I tried to do so in my Bible reading. I am reading II Samuel right now. I prayed first. I sharpened some colored pencils and sat down to read my four chapters. With my colored pencils I marked with symbols any references to: king, inquired, covenant, iniquity, time frames and geography. (If you want to know more about what to write in your bible click here) I created section headings in the margin. I paused afterwards to think about what I learned and briefly skimmed the text again. I was moved by David’s anguish over the death of Saul and Saul’s son, Ish-bosheth, who politically had become his enemies. It made me rethink how I should respond to people who seem poised against me.
This took time. Frankly, more time than I am prone to give it. However, I tasted and saw that the Lord is good. I heard the Spirit speak to issues in my life. I will readily retain much more of the story. I feel more centered as I go into my day. These and perhaps many other unseen benefits are well worth the time invested.
How can you taste and see that the Lord is good today?
What is one action step you can take right now to not miss God’s goodness?
p.s. Once again, if you want to see the system I use for marking my Bible read my prior post, What to Write In Your Bible.