Reading Psalm 119 in the King James version (KJV) of the bible today and struck afresh by the richness and power of God’s word.  For the last several years (8) I have been reading in the New King James version (NKJV) grabbing the New Living Translation (NLT) or the New International Version (NIV) to help with my understanding.  Before the NKJV, my version of choice was the NIV (appx. 30 yrs).  I remember being challenged by a pastor and trainer to read the NKJV. I recall my initial resistance, then struggle of the change, yet very shortly found myself awed afresh by the power and truth of God’s word.  I would refer to different versions to help with my understanding, yet soon I just fell in love with God’s Word all over again reading the NKJV.  My husband and some friends who also changed it up, experienced the same. I have been in the NKJV ever since. UNTIL….

Recently my Nephew Mike Day’s strong encouragement regarding the King James version (KJV) has caused me to pick up the KJV and WOW!  God has blessed me yet again with a fresh perspective and awe of Himeself and His Word.  I find it has really enriched my time with the Lord.  Sometimes it is very small. Example, from my reading today in Psalms 119,

• 119:18 (NIV) Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in Your Law

• 119:18 (NKJV), Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things from Your law.

• 119:18 (KJV), Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wonderous things out of Thy law.

A small difference yet somehow God uses it to cause me linger, to search, to enjoy afresh. So thankful to the Lord for this blessing. Another example:

Psalm 119:2 (NIV) “Psalm 119:2 (KJV) “Blessed are they that keep His testimonies, and that seek Him with the whole heart”

Psalm 119:2 (NLT) “Happy are all who search for God and always do His will,”

I am still getting familiar with the KJV and need a little help from other versions periodically, but just loving this renewed awe and joy in the Word of my God.  If you have read through the Word of God more than a few times consider picking up a different translation, maybe even the King James and be refreshed in your soul.  Our God is amazing and good, the same yesterday, today and tomorrow, but us, He is transforming day by day into His image.  How wonderful that He always has more for us! AND we don’t want to miss out on one good thing He has for us.  We are indeed “blessed when we keep His testimonies and seek Him with our whole heart!”

Give us a heart that seeks after You Lord,

Cindy