He must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it.

Titus 1:9 (ESV)

For every born again child of God, there is a transformation in the heart by the Holy Spirit. It produces a desire for a close and personal relationship with the Savior. That relationship begins the very instant there is a personal acceptance of God’s gift by faith in His Son Jesus.

As a true follower of Christ, all focus should be in strengthening that relationship. Unfortunately, many Christians are misled as to the best way to build a close fellowship with their Heavenly Father. Too much emphasis is being placed upon having an emotional experience or receiving an inner word.

The apostle Paul has identified what God desires most for believers in his letter to Titus and the churches on the island of Crete. Holding firm to the word is what is most important for all Christians. Only the written Word of God is able to give instruction in sound doctrine.

If there is a desire to know God more fully and to experience His love more completely, then there should also be a recognition that the Holy Bible is God’s way to have fellowship with His children.

When the focus is on hoping to hear God speak in a still, small voice or having visions and dreams, Christians trade God’s sure way of communication with uncertainty to the message or the messenger. Spending time reading, studying, and obeying God’s inspired Word is the best way to hear the Spirit of God speak to your spirit.

This week, if you are a Christian, determine to spend more time in God’s Word to build your relationship with your Heavenly Father. If you desire to hear from God, let the Bible do the speaking.