If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. James 1:5
After deciding to follow Jesus, Devin started reading his Bible every morning.
At first, he felt encouraged. Then he reached stories that unsettled him—war, betrayal, family conflict, leaders who abused power. “Why would God include this?” he wondered. Maybe you’ve felt that too. New believers often expect the Bible to feel comforting on every page. Instead, Scripture often shows humanity at its worst.
Here’s something important to understand: the Bible records events honestly, but it doesn’t approve of everything it describes. The Bible shows both the beauty of following God, and the damage when people ignore Him. For example, when the Bible book of Judges describes violence, it’s a warning. When a king named David sins in the book of 2 Samuel, the story exposes what unchecked power does to a human heart.
The Bible tells the truth about broken people so we understand why we need a Savior. And just as God meets us in the messy and confusing parts of our own lives, the Bible shows us that He has always done so. Jesus explained that all Scripture ultimately points to Him (Luke 24:27). He is the remedy all of history points to.
So when you read something difficult, pause and ask: What does this reveal about people? About God? How does this fit into the bigger story of redemption?
If you’re unsure, don’t stop reading—slow down, ask God for help. Over time, understanding grows. Scripture promises, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God and he will give it to you” (James 1:5a). Your questions do not scare Him. Ask and learn. And let the whole story shape you.
