Very few words have caused more disagreement than the opening stories in the Book of Genesis. As you read through these familiar words, here are a few tips to help you discern the powerful importance of and meaning within the words.

To understand the Bible, you must let the words speak for themselves, without adding to or taking from the powerful message within the text. These steps may help you to do this:

1. First, forget everything you have ever heard or thought about the creation stories. All too often we read between the lines and add unwritten editorial comments.
2. Then focus on the words themselves and work to read with an open mind. This fresh reading of the written words will likely reveal important words and phrases that you have missed in the past.
3. Finally, allow room for mystery, uncertainty, and miracles. Ancient readers of the Holy Writings were more comfortable with the knowledge that there is more to be revealed. By contrast, modern readers often make the mistake of believing that we have all relevant information available to us.

Keep reading through the Bible! Your faithful efforts will result in real and powerful blessings for you and for others around you.

Be blessed, my friend!