Every year, my wife and I host a bonfire at our farm. 

In many ways, it’s the highlight of the year. To me, it has always signaled the beginning of Autumn.

That same love for fire and fellowship is what inspired me to build a fire pit years ago — one my wife and I now enjoy sitting around on cool mornings as we sip our coffee before beginning the work day. 

Have you ever experienced the warmth of a campfire on a cool night? It draws you in, providing comfort, light, and protection. But the farther you move from the fire, the colder and darker it becomes. 

In a similar way, God’s Word is like that fire — radiating warmth, truth, and direction. The more we distance ourselves from it, the more vulnerable we become to the chill of confusion, fear, and temptation.

While recently reflecting on Psalm 119, a particular portion struck me deeply — verses 149 and 150: “Hear my voice according to your steadfast love; O Lord, according to your justice give me life. They draw near who persecute me with evil purpose; they are far from your law.” 

There’s a sobering truth in this passage: those who intend evil are often those who have drifted far from God’s Word. The psalmist connects distance from God’s law with the presence of evil intentions.

This isn’t just a poetic observation; it’s a spiritual reality. God’s Word isn’t just a book of instructions—it is a living guide, a source of wisdom, and a shield against temptation. The more time we spend in Scripture, the more we learn to recognize God’s truth and discern the lies of the enemy. When we neglect God’s Word, even unintentionally, we risk becoming more influenced by the world around us than by the Spirit within us.

Staying close to God’s Word isn’t complicated, but it does require intentionality. Read it daily — not out of obligation, but because it refreshes your soul. Meditate on it — let verses take root in your heart. Speak it—declare its truths in your life and circumstances. Live it — let Scripture shape your actions, decisions, and relationships.

In a world full of noise, chaos, and spiritual compromise, we must remain anchored. The Bible isn’t just a spiritual book; it is our lifeline.

Stay close. Don’t drift. Just like that campfire, allow God’s Word to burn brightly in your heart and mind. The closer you remain, the more clearly you will see, the more securely you will walk, and the more peace you will carry.

Peace to you!

Deny Lemaster is the Preaching Minister at Monett Church of Christ. He may be reached at monettchurchofchrist@gmail.com.