What Is Your Favorite Bible Verse?

One of the questions asked often in church groups is "what is your favorite Bible verse?" Regardless of denomination of the church, the most frequent answer is John 3:16. Even among persons who do not attend church and may not be Christians, John 3:16 is often listed as a favorite Bible verse.

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten

Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but

have everlasting life."

John 3:16

Why do people state that John 3:16 is their favorite Bible verse? For some, it is because of the depth of the meaning and the fact that the person has trusted and believed in Jesus, so they hold on to the promise of eternal life. For others, it is because they have heard the verse quoted often by others or at funerals so it is the verse that they remember easily.

A favorite verse may change with various stages of life. Many teenagers say that John 11:35 is their favorite, although they only remember the words, not the reference, since it is the shortest verse in the Bible.

"Jesus wept."

John 11:35

When I consider the question as to my favorite verse, I realize that my choice has changed over the years. Like many others, John 3:16 has always been a favorite since I understood my need to believe and trust Jesus as my Savior and Lord. But as I have encountered different circumstances in life, I have found other verses to carry special meaning and help.

"I can do all things through Him who strengthens me."

Philippians 4:13

"I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but

Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh

I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and

gave Himself up for me."

Galatians 2:20

"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive

us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

1 John 1:9

While all of these verses have special meaning and have brought encouragement and meaning to me at various times, today other verses are often on my mind. I believe these verses carry special meaning today because of the desire of our world for instant solutions and instant success. As a result, we often make hasty and rash decisions and choices that are far removed from God's will and purpose for our lives or for our world as a whole. Rather than acting without thought or prayer, maybe our word for this period of time should be WAIT. The verses that are often on my mind during these days are found in one of the Psalms.

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present

help in trouble."

Psalm 46:1

"Be still, and know that I am God."

Psalm 46:10a

When you think about what your favorite Bible verse is, also consider why that is your favorite verse. What meaning does it hold for your life today? How does it keep you focused on the direction God is leading you on your life's journey? Are you living in obedience to the verse that you call your favorite? If not, what is required for you to take the steps necessary to truly make that verse a genuine guide within your life instead of just some words that sound good?

God gave us His word that we might both know Him and live by His guidelines and commandments. This is a poor illustration but here goes - I didn't know that broccoli was to become my new favorite green vegetable until I tried it. Our favorite Bible verses are discovered by living them.

Have a great week living the Word of God.