Once upon a time I read a devotional in the morning that only put the scripture reference, no actual verse(s). Some mornings I had time to look up the verse. Sometimes I even had time to look up multiple translations of the verse. However, the bulk of the days I only had time to read the devotional.
So when I started writing my own devotional, I made sure that the verse is always there along with what translation I’m using. That gives the reader the option to dig further if lead to do that. Otherwise I try not to put a burden on the reader.
Perhaps you could reference the whole passage but just quote the focus verse. Scripture penetrates, even when we don’t feel it, so I think it’s important to have the Word, not just the reference out there. You never know, it might be the only scripture the reader sees or hears that day.
Once upon a time I read a devotional in the morning that only put the scripture reference, no actual verse(s). Some mornings I had time to look up the verse. Sometimes I even had time to look up multiple translations of the verse. However, the bulk of the days I only had time to read the devotional.
So when I started writing my own devotional, I made sure that the verse is always there along with what translation I’m using. That gives the reader the option to dig further if lead to do that. Otherwise I try not to put a burden on the reader.
Great perspective Scott, thank you.
Perhaps you could reference the whole passage but just quote the focus verse. Scripture penetrates, even when we don’t feel it, so I think it’s important to have the Word, not just the reference out there. You never know, it might be the only scripture the reader sees or hears that day.
Very good point, thanks.