The word “nice” has an interesting linguistic journey through history. Its current usage to describe something pleasant, agreeable, or kind is a relatively recent development compared to its earlier meanings.

The word “nice” originated from the Latin word “nescius,” meaning “ignorant” or “unaware.” Over time, in Middle English, it shifted to mean “foolish” or “stupid.” By the late 14th century, it evolved further to denote someone who was excessively particular or fastidious.

In the 18th century, “nice” started to take on the meaning of being precise, careful, or exacting, often in the context of craftsmanship or delicate work. For example, a “nice distinction” referred to a subtle or finely tuned difference.

By the 19th century, the meaning of “nice” shifted towards indicating agreeable or delightful qualities. It began to be associated with pleasantness and amiability, and this positive connotation has persisted into modern usage.

Today, when we use the word “nice,” we typically mean something that is pleasing, enjoyable, or kind. The evolution of this word reflects the dynamic nature of language, as meanings can change over time based on cultural shifts and linguistic developments.

In a world where the meanings of words can shift over time, the Word of God stands as an unwavering foundation. The Bible, unlike linguistic nuances, remains constant and unchanging. Scripture assures us in Isaiah 40:8, “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.” While words like “nice” may evolve in their connotations, the timeless nature of the Bible endures.

The cultural landscape may shift, but the Word of God provides an anchor, a firm foundation we can trust. God’s Word remains a steadfast guide for our lives. Several Bible verses emphasize the transformative power of the Word of God for believers. Here are a few:

Romans 12:2 (NIV): “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV): “And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.”

Hebrews 4:12 (NIV): “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”

Psalm 119:11 (NIV): “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.”

James 1:22-25 (NIV): “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.”

These verses convey the idea that the Word of God has the power to renew the mind, transform believers into the image of Christ, and guide them in living according to God’s will.

Consider what could happen if we altered the Word of God to fit the trends of culture. It would lose its timeless wisdom, and our understanding of truth would become subjective and malleable. The Bible is intended to transform us, not for us to alter it based on the whims of society.

The concept that we should not change anything in the Bible is often rooted in passages that emphasize the authority and unchanging nature of God’s Word. While specific verses may not explicitly say, “Do not change anything in the Bible,” the principles of respecting and preserving God’s revealed truth are evident in the following verses:

Deuteronomy 4:2 (NIV): “Do not add to what I command you and do not subtract from it, but keep the commands of the Lord your God that I give you.”  This verse from Deuteronomy emphasizes not adding or subtracting from God’s commands.

Proverbs 30:5-6 (NIV): “Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar.”  This passage underscores the perfection of God’s words and warns against adding to them.

Revelation 22:18-19 (NIV): “I warn everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this scroll: If anyone adds anything to them, God will add to that person the plagues described in this scroll. And if anyone takes words away from this scroll of prophecy, God will take away from that person any share in the tree of life and in the Holy City, which are described in this scroll.”  In the context of Revelation, a specific warning is given against adding or taking away from the words of the prophecy.

These verses highlight the importance of preserving the integrity of God’s Word and not altering its content. The Bible is considered by believers to be the inspired and authoritative revelation of God, and these passages caution against tampering with its divine message.

Let us hold fast to the unchanging Word of God, allowing it to shape our lives and guide us in a world where meanings may fluctuate but His truth remains constant.