Eons ago, when I was in college, I was struggling. Having been raised in a fairly legalistic home and church I struggled with assurance of eternal life. I also was confused about what God wanted me to do for a life’s work.

During my senior year, a group I sang in was invited to sing for a youth congress. The meetings were being held in a gymnasium, and famed Voice of Prophecy radio preacher, H. M. S. Richards, was the speaker.

After Richard’s sermon I felt impressed to ask him about my two questions: “Is my salvation secure?” And, “What should I do for my life’s work?” I made my way to the platform where Richards was shaking hands and praying for people. He saw me, grabbed my hand and began to speak.

Richard’s never let me say a word. Remember, I had two questions to ask but I never got to ask them. Instead, Richards quoted Romans 10:9. “If you will confess with your lips, Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”

Question number one was answered.

Then Richards looked at me and said, “Son I don’t know what you are going to do with your life but whatever you do, keep it simple.” Then he turned and walked away.

God had answered my questions through this wonderful man of God. From that day my favorite Bible verse has been Romans 10:9. God gave it to Paul, who gave it to H. M. S. Richards, who gave it to me at just the right time in my life.

So, do you have a favorite Bible verse? Why is it your favorite? How does God speak to you through that verse?

As we step into a new year, I pray that you will immerse yourself in God’s word, and that you will find, as I have, that His word is truly alive and relevant to every situation of life – no matter what you may face in 2023. Happy New Year!

Mike Tucker