When we study, we want to focus on the important things. More specifically, we want to focus on what GOD considers important. There are times in Scripture where God helps us out, highlighting His word for us. The highlighter used most often is ‘behold’.
(Now, if you have a newer translation, you might see words like Watch! or Look! or Listen! or even Beware! Those serve the same purpose, with perhaps a little less old-fashioned dramatic effect.)
I don’t typically use that word in my everyday conversation, and except for Phineas and Ferb, I don’t even hear it on a regular basis. In Scripture, when God uses it, He’s drawing special attention to what He’s saying or doing and that deserves a closer look.
In Luke 2:10, the angel says, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.”Behold. Get this. Pay attention. The shepherds probably needed a little focus after the whole miraculous, angelic appearance thing. (Just guessing, but I figure they were a little freaked out.)
In Isaiah 7:14 “Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son and will call His name Immanuel.” Behold. Watch for this.
Psalm 33:18 “Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear Him, on those who hope in His mercy.” Behold. You can count on this. I’m telling you…
As you study, watch for the ‘prehighlighted’ verses, slow down and catch what God has for you in them.
What are your favorite “behold!” verses?