Yet & But

1 Peter 3:14-15

“Have no fear of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect…”

Two words jumped out at me this past week while listening to a sermon message by our local minister. He is very Christ-centered in his messages and leaves you with more to chew on afterwards. This time the Holy Spirit nudged me to focus on the two words yet & but.

Two three letter words which we use often but the question arose in my mind how those words are used throughout Scripture and in what context. So, this week we started a new study.

What did I find?

“But” is a word that erases everything prior to it and “yet” is a word that adds something to the previous mention item.

For example, in the above Scripture “but” emphasizes being prepared rather than allowing fear or anxiety have a stronghold on you. And later “yet” reminds us to exercise an attitude of love upon the way we respond.

What does this mean when we read the Bible?

Simply this. When you read Scripture and come across either of these two words, stop. You may want to analyze what is being erased and what is being added to the topic at hand. Most of the time you will find nuggets of eternal value which you can imitate in your own life.

Just another way to make reading the Bible more interesting and practical for your everyday use.

Rooting For You in Christ!

Dr. Mike

Faith-Integrator, Encourager, Scribbler

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Why Be A Student of the Bible?

Deuteronomy 8:3
..but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. ESV.

The Bible is a book that reveals the portal of life. Within its pages are the lessons learned by those who have gone before us. As you peruse each chapter, you come to realize that human behavior, experiences, and desires have remain the same for thousands of years. Or as one historian stated, there is nothing new under the sun except technology and fashion.

As you read, you will become a student of history, psychology, and human relations.  The Book becomes your manual for everyday joy. Throughout its pages, you discover more of God’s character, purpose, and story. You discover where real peace and prosperity comes from and how to attain them. You learn to separate real Truth from the lies thrown your way each and every day. You come to experience and share the power of love from God’s heart.

You learn to quickly recognize the hypocrisy and fears in yourself and others. But more importantly, you find the faith which leads to the dismantling of these ugly demons in yourself and others.

As you read and study the events, circumstances, and lives of people who encountered God, you realize you have more in common with them then not. And more importantly, over time you will come to know the Author of Life and your place with Him. You will uncover your true identity and purpose which will lead to a more meaningful life of adventure and passion.

You may even come to realize that the Book was personally written just for you. That the God revealed through its pages truly loves you and wants what is best for you. That He wants a personal relationship with you. That He is nothing like the stern grandfather you may have heard from others. Instead, He is the loving Dad who provides, protects, and shares life with all his children.

When you come to the place where you recognize there are more Pros than Cons to study the Bible, then do the smart thing; make the commitment. In hindsight, it will be one of the best decisions you will make in your entire life time. Or it may be one of those regretful choices that you would have liked to have changed. Either way, your choice today will determine your quality of life tomorrow.

Rooting For You in Christ!

Dr. Mike

Encourager & Founder of
Vocational Leadership 360
Author of e-Books:

Dancing With God: Life-Giving Theology Explained
Great Business Emulates a Good God
Be Radical…Follow Christ!
Simply The Messenger
Unequally Married

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