For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there until they have watered the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and succeed in the thing for which I sent it. (Isaiah 55:10-11)
What comfort is in this thought. The word which God speaks will accomplish that which he intends.
Surely one reason why the Bible is still in circulation thousands of years after the documents contained therein were first written and read, is that people have found within the text the resources they need to live well whatever their present circumstances. People have found the words to be good and helpful!
Of course, what makes it so is not the ink on the paper, but the Person to whom the words direct us.
In the Gospel of John, Jesus is described as the Word in human form. And this incarnate Word embodies and guides us to the Father who to know is the life that exceeds our present circumstances.
By the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit, the words of the Bible lead us to the Word made flesh in whom, by whom, and with whom is life in its fullness.
There will always be questions about the trustworthiness and the efficacy of God’s Word, recorded in the text of scripture. Some questions coming from our own hearts and minds. While we wrestle with questions and underestanding, always remember: these words have been the media through which thousands of people over thousands of years have come to know the One who created all that exists and in whom is life eternal.