Washing in the Word

          Washing in the Word is an applicable metaphor for reading, studying and meditating on Scripture, at least in my life. When I was a kid, I hated having to take showers and baths. I can't remember why; maybe it was a passive-aggressive way to defy my parents or something. Anyway, I fought it but when I finally got in the warm water, I didn't want to leave. Now I enjoy them without the initial reluctance. You may agree feeling clean after a shower or bath is one of the lovely, simple pleasures in life. If not, well, I'm sorry. Just like the kid me regarding baths, I initially fought reading the Bible but once I surrendered to it, I enjoyed it and felt cleaner afterward.
          I've gotten better about being faithful to read and at least note what I'm reading each day. Sometimes I merely recap in my journal what I read. Other times, I'm able to connect it to overall themes and/or other verses or passages. Many times, I'm able to connect it to something in my life that I need to do, learn, or remember. Those are some of the best days. There are still mornings when I'm reluctant but when I dig in and work to push aside (with varying success) the distractions and reluctance, I feel better. Peace washes over me. I'm given focus. I feel God's presence. I feel less weighed down and muddied by circumstances and sin. I don't really want to leave it behind but I know I'm made clean and ready for the day. Because of it, I've grown in my faith, found guidance, hope and peace in tough times, gained wisdom, and been able to comfort and counsel those who needed it.
          Now as far I know, the only phrase similar to "washing in the Word" is used in Ephesians 5:26, which is a command to husbands to do this for their wives just as Christ does for the church. You don't need a husband to do this for you. Jesus does it for us, if only we'll surrender to it. There are several verses that recount the joys of reading and meditating on Scripture as well as their necessity to the Christian walk. Chapters, articles, devotionals, and Bible studies have been written on it. There are probably even whole books out there dedicated to it. I hope my experience encourages you to start, or continue to be faithful in, "washing in the Word" daily. For now, though, I'll leave you with a single stanza from Psalm 119. I recommend reading the whole Psalm; it was really hard to pick just one part.

How can a young person stay on the path of purity?
    By living according to your word.
I seek you with all my heart;
    do not let me stray from your commands.
I have hidden your word in my heart
    that I might not sin against you.
Praise be to you, Lord;
    teach me your decrees.
With my lips I recount
    all the laws that come from your mouth.
I rejoice in following your statutes
    as one rejoices in great riches.
I meditate on your precepts
    and consider your ways.
I delight in your decrees;
    I will not neglect your word.
-Psalm 119:9-16 (NIV)