To the traveler it's a map;
To the pilgrim it's a staff;
To the pilot it's a compass;
To the fool it's just a laugh.
It's the Christians' charter
To the soldier it's a sword;
To the weary it is rest;
To the miser it's a horde.

It will lead you; it will lift you;
It will give to life a savor;
It will be a mine of wealth
And make you stronger, braver,
It will give to you a home someday,
A real paradise;
It will give the poor great riches
And wisdom to the wise;
It is food to those that hunger
And comfort to those in grief;
To him whose life seems over,
It will be a great relief.

To the prophet it's the future;
To the historian it's the past;
To the thirsty it's cool water
That will forever last.
To the drowning man it's driftwood;
To the smothered it's fresh air;
To those who never plan ahead,
It's a very needy spare.

It's a cool breeze in the desert;
It's a bright light in the dark,
A friend to the lonely,
And the racer's winning mark.
It's strength to the weak
And to the bound a way out.
What is it to you?
This Bible I'm talking about.
Do you read it to be wiser
And apply it to yourself,
Or is it lying now at home
On a dirty, dusty shelf?

Is it covered over now with dirt
And filth that's settled there;
Is it covered with Godless books,
Or do you really care?
When you stand before the judgment,
Will it be joy or sorrow?
Well, read God's Word and come to Him,
For you may die tomorrow.