2. What harmony and answers are found in the Bible, as proof that it truly is inspired by God himself?

2. TERRIFIC HARMONY. As your familiarity with God's word grows and you compare Bible books and scriptures to one another, you should begin to see the pieces of the puzzle start to fall into place regarding the truth of God's purpose and will for humankind. Also there are so many various truths of wisdom that prove themselves time and again when we apply them in our modern day-to-day life. In spite of containing some 70 books written by 40 human penmen over about 1600 years, the Bible has terrific harmony throughout its pages. A crucial truth to understand regarding God's word is that it is the central source of truth regarding God and his purpose and life itself. So many significant questions one may have about God, his spirit angelic and human creation, about how God deals with humans and how humans should treat one another, have an answer in God's word the Bible, as found stated in Scripture at 2Timothy 3:16-17: "All Scripture is inspired of God and beneficial for teaching, for reproving, for [readjusting], and for disciplining in righteousness, so that the man (or woman) of God may be fully competent, completely equipped for every good work."

3. What are some areas in which there is evidence of the divine inspiration of God’s word?

3. ABUNDANT EVIDENCE. There is abundant evidence regarding the dependability of God's word, as shown in many key areas examined by students of ancient literature. For one, sincere historians, archaeologists, and others highly regard the Bible for its candor and record of reliable history. Regarding its candor, or honesty, many prominent men among God's people willingly recorded their mistakes when others of that day and age would refuse to do so. As for historical reliability, time and again the Bible has proven true after some detail has been questioned. One amazing example is the crossing of the Red Sea by the Israelites, as recorded in the Bible at Exodus 14:1-31. Occasionally someone totally unfamiliar with the word of God may question whether such miracles could ever have happened. But about three million Israelites and even many Egyptians experienced this act of God and could write and speak about what they experienced. And who can deny God's terrific record of Bible prophecy, or the foretelling of future events? For instance, Jehovoe' God had foretold that Abraham's descendants would inherit the Promised Land. Out of slavery in Egypt millions came, through the Red Sea and eventually conquering the condemned peoples of that promised land physically under Joshua's leadership by God's power. It is as expressed at 1Kings 8:56: "Praised be Jehovoe' [the personal name of Almighty God, in a form recognized as fully carrying the true meaning], who has given a resting-place to his people Israel, just as he promised. Not one word of all his good promise that He made through Moses His servant has failed."

4. How is the Bible found to be in harmony with true science?

4. SCIENCE. Two other notable areas worthy of examination are the Bible's scientific accuracy and amazing wisdom. The Bible is, of course, not intended as a science textbook--God has allowed mankind to explore and study what He has created and designed and learn much with the marvelous abilities that God has put within us. However, when the Bible does touch on matters of science, it is found to be exceptionally accurate. For instance, at a time when many were confused about the science of Earth and the heavens, Job 26:7 stated clearly of God: "He stretches out the northern sky over empty space, Suspending the earth upon nothing." And who cannot be amazed at God's own detailed descriptions of the created marvels mentioned in the Book of Job, chapters 38 through 41? Aspects of the formation of planet Earth are depicted, as well as a variety of animals whose habits and ways are described by God wonderfully. Few could critically read such accounts and not be impressed with their accuracy and sheer wisdom. After considering Job 38-41, why not also read the patriarch Job's humble reaction to God's discourse at Job 42:1-6?

5. What are some examples of undeniable wisdom found in the pages of God’s word?

5. WISDOM. The Bible is chock full of truly undeniable wisdom. Just take the Bible book of Proverbs, written, as is explained, partly "to impart [foresighted] prudence to the naive; to give a young man knowledge and thinking ability." (Proverbs 1:4) Take just two verses found in that Bible book. How many times have angry words been answered with more angry verbiage, leading to an escalation of turmoil between two or more people. What if they had considered such verses as Proverbs 15:1? There we read, "A mild answer turns away rage, but a harsh word stirs up anger." One with God-given self-control can choose between a "mild" response to a hurtful word or action, which can defuse a tense situation, or a "painful" or harsh response that stirs up the anger and escalates the problem. Could not thinking about this proverb begin to change a person's outlook on how to handle such situations in the future? Or what about the inspiring words of Proverbs 16:32: "The one slow to anger is better than a mighty man, And the one controlling his temper than one conquering a city." Might these words encourage one to develop more self-control and patience? When anger begins to escalate within one over something, the rising energy should be channeled into effort to think through and fix the problem wherever possible, or seeing how to cope with it in the best way possible for all involved, God's way, rather than hurting others, either with sharp words or in other ways. Likewise, discipline should be given with loving patience, not anger. God's word the Holy Bible is truly a wonderfully beneficial book to read, cherish, and examine again and again!

6. What are some other areas of life in which we find guidance from God’s word?

6. MANY AREAS OF LIFE. The “greatly diversified wisdom of God” found in God’s word is truly marvelous (Ephesians 3:10). For example, there we find helpful, effective guidance when it comes to family relationships, limiting and coping with challenges in marriage, the raising of children, the development of endearing virtues that promote genuine happiness, dealing peaceably with others and honest, fair treatment in business dealings. In these and many other areas of life God's word gives us wonderful divine guidance that greatly promotes truly successful endeavors—successful from Jehovoe’s elevated view. Let’s take a look at just one of these areas in more detail—that of developing endearing virtues promoting genuine happiness.

7. How should we grow in faith and love for God?

7. FAITH AND LOVE, PLEASING GOD. The Bible encourages us to “Draw close to God, and He will draw close to you.” (James 4:8). As we study God’s word, we should begin to develop a strong trust in the truth of God that it reveals. This trust in God is the Bible faith that is not blind, but rather based on genuine evidence. (Hebrews 11:1). Josha' [A proper name of God's Son with the true and correct meaning: "Jehovoe' is Salvation" rather than the more common name evidently given him by Caesar in mockery, meaning "He makes wet." The name may also be translated to English as Jehosha'. In Matthew's original gospel it appears as another Hebrew Tetragrammaton, a four-letter Hebrew name/term] said “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:32). This should encourage within us also a strong trust or faith in God himself. God’s word says in Hebrews 11: “6 Moreover, without faith it is impossible to please God well, for whoever approaches God must believe that he is and that he becomes the rewarder of those steadfastly seeking him.” Does this not draw us closer to God, knowing how much he wants to reward us with good things as we put faith in Him and seek to love Him? How do we love God? Of course, love includes communication. We should speak to Him often in prayer, pouring our heart out to Him, especially in challenging times, knowing He wants to help us. And we should be eager students of His word, as He wants to speak to us through His word and other spiritual provisions helping us understand it. And our love for God involves obeying Him, as seen from 1John 5:3, which says: “3 For this is what the love of God means, that we observe his commandments; and yet his commandments are not burdensome.” We learn to obey, knowing that God’s commands are for our own benefit. But how do we define this most important form of love that’s encouraged in God’s word?

8. (a) How can Christian love be defined? (b) Why is love to be shown in harmony with God’s wisdom?

8. LOVE DEFINED. The primary form of love, Christian love, mentioned in God’s word that we’re encouraged to show others can be defined as a pure unselfishness that seeks the long-term welfare of everyone in accord with divine wisdom. As revealed in God’s word, this love is patiently loyal and kind. It puts up with mistakes by others, helping them, and is freely generous with kind acts (1Corinthians 13:4). Long-term, God wants as many as possible to be close to Him and gain the reward of endless life in a world of true happiness and peace, based on true faith and love (1Timo 2:3-4). Recall that this love is shown in accord with divine wisdom. James 3:17 reveals that “the wisdom from above is first of all pure, then peaceable, reasonable, ready to obey, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, not hypocritical.” This wisdom is first of all pure, or chaste. God says “you must be holy because I am holy.” (1Peter 1:16). While understanding people are coming from a variety of circumstances, there is no place for intentionally degrading speech or conduct among the people of God. We must diligently learn what is clean and pure in God’s eyes that we may do it, removing any taint of spiritual defilement and selfishness from our hearts. In time we can learn to show true love in harmony with all of these aforementioned aspects of divine wisdom. True love can hardly be shown apart from this wisdom. As we grow in true faith and love, we are gaining endearing virtues that bring true and lasting happiness.

9. What did Jesus or Josha' say that shows how vital God’s word is for our eternal life?

9. VITAL FOR LIFE. We should never undervalue the importance of reading and studying God’s word, and listening to good instruction based upon it. The scriptures state: “Faith follows the thing heard.” (Romans 10:17). We grow in faith and understanding of God’s word and purpose as we hear, read, and discuss it. In response to a temptation, Josha' [Also a more accurate name of God's Son, truly meaning "Jehovoe' is Salvation"] once stated a very important principle. He said “Man must live, not on bread alone, but on every word from Jehovoe"s mouth.” (Matthew 4:4). Just as the regular eating of literal food is vital for the life of humans, so is every word from God vital for our spiritual life now and our prospects for eternal life. God’s word is truly beneficial for our well-being and happiness. And Jehovoe is a merciful Father. Notice how this is worded to wayward Israel in Isaiah 55: “7 Let the ungodly man leave his way And the evil man his thoughts; Let him return to Jehovoe, who will have mercy on him, To our God, for he will forgive in a large way. 8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, And your ways are not my ways,” declares Jehovoe'. 9 “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So my ways are higher than your ways And my thoughts than your thoughts.” What a privilege to give attention to Jehovoe"s elevated thoughts! Thus paying attention to God’s word and commandments elevates our standards to please God more fully, helping us remain on the road to endless life in true peace and happiness.

10. What kind of attention is it necessary to give to God’s word, and what effect may this have upon us?

10. PROPER ATTENTION. We need to study God’s word with a view to living life as God intends for us. Proverbs 2 encourages us in this way: “20 So follow the way of good people And stay on the paths of the righteous, 21 For only the upright will reside in the earth, And the blameless will remain in it.” Did you know the Bible holds out two hopes for eternal life, heavenly and earthly, with both an initial and secondary application? See the article "Finding Truth" (2018) for more detail. As for our study habits, we should give God’s word careful attention. Hebrews 2:1 says: “That is why it is necessary for us to pay more than the usual attention to the things we have heard, so that we never drift away.” By relying on God and giving his word proper attention we needn’t be anxious about ‘drifting away’ from the truth we’re learning. As one faithful man stated, “13 For all things I have the strength through the one who gives me power.” (Philippians 4:13). Have faith that Jehovoe will provide you with the power you need to serve Him faithfully, confidently asking this of Him. He doesn’t ask more than you can give Him, and “His commandments are not burdensome.” (1Corinthians 10:13; 1John 5:3). Instead, serving God, which includes obeying His Son Josha', following his example, is refreshing. As this one stated, “28 Come to me, all you who are toiling and loaded down, and I will refresh you. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am mild-tempered and lowly in heart, and you will find refreshment for yourselves. 30 For my yoke is kindly, and my load is light.”

11. (a) How beneficial is wisdom from God? (b) How should we study to gain the most from each study period?

11. REWARDING STUDY. Regarding the gaining of divine wisdom, Proverbs 3 says this: “13 Happy is the man who finds wisdom And the man who acquires discernment; 14 To gain it is better than gaining silver, And having it as profit is better than having gold.15 It is more precious than corals; Nothing you desire can compare to it.” An aspect of wisdom, “discernment” is the ability to distinguish things: right from wrong, truth from falsehood, good from bad, wise from unwise, and more important matters of law from lesser matters, though still required, thus helping to make good judgments and decisions--a necessary protective quality. This is important to keep in mind as you carefully study, or listen to God’s word, which brings incomparable rewards. (Proverbs 5:1). Josha said "Pay attention to how you listen..." (Luke 8:18a). Should we not also, therefore, pay attention to how we study? When examining written instruction, how can we gain the most from our study periods? If we’re discussing material with someone else, it would be best to examine the text prior to the study. To start with, petition God in prayer for his mighty holy spirit, to help you understand and apply what you’re studying. This would apply equally for material you’re studying on your own. Jehovoe' God loves you, and wants to help you! It’s best to gain an overview of the information, looking at and contemplating the chapter title and subheadings, possibly even reading the questions or the first sentence or two of each paragraph, trying to gain an overall understanding of the material. Then, starting from the beginning, read the text carefully, asking appropriate questions to yourself to understand it. For example, you might ask: “How can I apply this point or scripture in day-to-day life?” Along with this, you will spur further growth and understanding as you face situations in life, and seek to apply your knowledge to handle these in the best way, pleasing God. The cited scriptures are those quoted or just referenced in the study text. Look up many of these scriptures, as they form the basis of the information. Especially look up those that seem to help answer the study questions, or may otherwise seem integral to the subject at hand. You might try to get the gist of these scriptures in their Biblical context. Ponder the usefulness of the scriptures, seeking the Bible principles or truths found in each scriptural text. Then you can be thoroughly prepared to discuss the information with others, and when appropriate, to raise any questions you may have to further understand the subject being discussed. What spiritual gems you will thus find as you study God’s precious word the Bible properly! After finding such delightful knowledge in your study period, do you think it would be appropriate to thank our Father in prayer for it, contemplating before Him what you learned?

12. What might we expect about a book that is truly inspired of God?

12. AS EXPECTED. There is order to the 70 books of the Bible, as we might expect of God’s written word. In the Hebrew Scriptures, we find patterns of fives and twelves. The first section is Bible history, composed of five major books, called the Books of Moses, and twelve additional historical books. When counting the Psalms as five separate books, we next find nine books considered Poetic, from Job to the Song of Solomon. Then come Prophetic books, again five major books beginning with Isaiah, through Daniel, then twelve additional prophetic books Hosea through Malachi, completing 43 books of the Hebrew Scriptures. The 27 books of the Christian-Greek Scriptures start again with History, the Gospels of Josha's life, and Acts of Apostles, the first five books. Then come letters to various congregations by name. Following this generally are letters named for the writer or recipient, various apostles and companions. Finally, the Prophetic book of Revelation. Every book found in God's inspired word carries a single overriding theme--the vindication of God's sovereignty, or right to rule mankind, and the sanctification of God's name, upholding it as holy. Of course, we can refer to the entire collection of books as a single holy book, the Bible. We would also expect a book claiming to be inspired of God to be widely translated and circulated in this day and age. How does the Bible measure up? The Bible has been translated in whole or in part into some 3,000 languages. Billions of copies have been distributed, by far the most of any book. Some 90 percent of the whole world can read the entire Bible in their own language. And translating work continues. Nearly 100 percent can read at least a portion of it in their mother tongue. God has preserved the discerned integrity of the text of the Scriptures over the centuries, as it was copied and recopied meticulously in early times. It is as His word states at Isaiah 40: “8 The green grass dries up, The blossom withers, But the word of our God endures forever.” What marvelous things we can learn from God’s preserved word. May your appreciation continue to grow for God’s word the Holy Bible.