Sometimes I am puzzled by the shortsightedness of intelligent people. I recall, for example, when once-noted American psychologist John B. Watson (1878-1958) published theories about human nature that inspired widespread excitement in academic circles. Watson contended that we can control behavior and make people act in any way we desire. He scoffed at the biblical teaching that we are made in God's image. He argued that we are essentially the same as animals and can be manipulated like puppets.

Although Watson's radical theories enjoyed only short-lived influence, a review of one of his books actually declared, "Perhaps this is the most important book ever written. One stands for a moment blinded with a great hope."

What an absurd appraisal! Even non-Christian scholars agree that the most important book ever written is the Bible, the Book that has had an influence on our world for centuries. The psalmist put it well when he said that God's Word made him wiser than his enemies and gave him more understanding than all his teachers (Ps. 119:98-99).

That Book, the Word of God, gives us real hope—a hope backed by all the authority, truth, and power of God.  — Vernon C. Grounds