SHINY4UJESUS
Member
+ The Bible: Absorbing the Scriptures +
(Maximizing the Return)
" All scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right. It is God's way of preparing us in every way, fully equipped for every good thing God wants us to do. " + 2 TIMOTHY 3:16&17 +
Many of us read our bibles, we memorize certain verses and passages, and we make these things a part of our daily walks of faith. We are obedient to the call to search the scriptures daily as we forge onward through the peaks and valleys of the lives we lead. Yet some of us have fallen into a casual attitude towards bible study; letting it be more of a process, a system, and have allowed it to become more of a tradition than an actual heartfelt longing for the truth contained in the Word. Studying daily is great, memorizing scripture is admirable, and consistency in searching the scriptures is key to spiritual growth; however, all this is of little benefit if we don't fully grasp the deeper principles or make a conscious choice to apply the concepts in our lives.
Some of us even study with evil motives; seeking to know the Word that we may use it as a tool for leverage, so we can promote our own agenda. Some of us study and memorize the Word in order to give the appearance of righteousness and obedience. Some learn the Word in order to feel superior to others, as we seek to lift ourselves into a position of leadership and authority. We do ourselves, others, and even God an injustice when we have such a shallow approach towards this critical element in our faith.
In order for us to achieve the maximum benefit of scripture, its paramount that we maintain the proper attitude, approach, perspective and dilligence when we read our bibles. If our purpose or intention is evil, then we will not receive the fullness of wisdom and knowledge of God. We will be fighting against the grain for minimal return, and will develop deceptive and contrary views related to those things we read; at best. It is my hope and prayer that this lesson will lead us into a much more rewarding and fruitful study habit.
Let us focus on some key principles regarding study proper preparation and posture; not simply reading, but seeking through prayer and meditation for the deeper truths and power; being consistent; the benefits of it/ability to break chains of spiritual enslavement; and properly wielding the Sword of Truth.
+ Posture & Preparation +
" If you need wisdom-if you want to know what God wants you to do-ask Him and He will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking. But when you ask Him, be sure that you really expect Him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind."+ JAMES 1: 5&6 +
Many times we simply sit down in the morning and open up our bibles, read our daily alotted portion of scripture, and go on about our day. While this is not "wrong," per se; it does limit the benefit we can get from our study time. There are however, some things we can do before we even open the bible that will greatly improve the return on the time invested in study. If we get into the habit of doing these things each and every time, we will find a much deeper understanding and greater power in those things we read.
First, let us seek God in prayer; bringing to Him all the things in our lives that may be contrary to His Word and will. If we surrender any sin, or sinful thoughts/intentions before we begin, then those things will no longer be able to obstruct the movement of the Spirit as He ministers to us through our study. We will find it easier to understand what God is trying to tell us; we will find a deeper understanding of the hidden truths and principles that are implied between the lines.
Second, let us ask God to speak to us; let us truly hunger and desire for Him to minister to us and grant a fuller comprehension of what is being given. Let us pray for ears open to His voice, eyes open to the concepts He wills us to learn, a mind ready and receptive of His wisdom and depth of understanding, and a heart free from hardness; that the seeds find good soil, take root deeply, and grow forth to fruitful abundance.
Third, let us maintain a proper attitude and spiritual posture; a humble and reverent perspective. It's important we remember that it is not our studying that causes growth, but God's revelation and minstry through it. We are told in
1 Corinthians 3:6, " My job was to plant the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it; but it was God, not we, who caused the growth." Thus we do well to remember it is not by our power or actions that we receive the benefit but God's.
Once we have nurtured the proper attitude, posture and approach; once we have sought God's movement and providence in our study efforts, then we can begin our lessons with a much more powerful effect.
+ Don't Read; Absorb! +
" Study this book of the Law continually. Meditate on it day and night so you may be sure to obey all that is written in it. Only then will you succeed." + JOSHUA 1:8 +
It is very easy for us to fall into the pattern of simply reading our daily verses or passages and going on about our day; mission accomplished. However, this severely limits the depth of our understanding. We do well to grasp the idea that we can take our morning's study with us everywhere we go that day. For a long time I would read my daily Psalm, my daily Proverb, whatever else I felt led or inclined to study, and proceed with my day. Yet at a point I finally realized that I wasn't contemplating what I had read throughout my daily life. I was very confused about the concept of meditation; thinking meditation was sitting cross-legged and repeating some mantra, as I had seen in movies. As such, I felt quite foolish even considering meditation much less employing it.
Over time I figured out this was a very limited and ignorant view of meditation, and though this method may work for some; it was simply too comical for me to seriously consider. Meditation is not so much about the act; but about the intention, the level of passion or focus, and commitment to delving deeper for a more complete comprehension. For me, meditation is thoughtful and prayerful contemplation; simply repeating the verses and considering what God was trying to say to me; considering how the verses and passages in whole revealed context and underlying truths. It was “revisiting,” what I'd read periodically throughout my day, and thinking about its meaning.
If one looks at this scripture from the beginning of Joshua, it tells us that we should, " Meditate on it day and night." This means we shouldn't simply read it and go on about our business, forgetting what we read. On the contrary we should take time throughout our day and night to revisit what we learned, to reconsider the concepts and principles that were illustrated. Quite often we will find that God will not simply reveal one message or application, but several; and it's key to continue to meditate and consider the Word in order to receive all of what God is trying to tell us. In this manner we don't simply "read," scripture, but we absorb it as it comes alive to us.
A car must have fuel in order to get anywhere, you can have everything else in order; but without fuel, you cannot even start much less move forward. The bible is like our daily gas station; we should be sure to top off first thing in the morning and as needed, this way we have the weapons we need to stand ground in spiritual warfare. Just as well, what happens if there isn't enough juice in the battery? It not only won't start but you will be lucky to get any illumination from the headlights; you must have a fully charged battery to see the obstacles in the road and safely avoid them.
Taking time to meditatively and prayerfully study the bible will help us ensure our spiritual “fuel tanks,” are full; to ensure our lights shine bright enough to see clearly. We will find a much greater power and deliverance in life if we invest the time and effort to learn what God has to say, and prepare to give answer when we are presented with the daily tests that we encounter. We can benefit and grow exponentially if we strive harder, dig deeper and surrender to the washing and renewing of our minds through in depth study.
+ Scripture = Strength +
" Your words are what sustains me. They bring me great joy and are my heart's delight, for I bear your name, O Lord God Almighty."+ JEREMIAH 15:16 +
There are many times in our lives that we encounter periods of trial, tribulation, testing, and even plain old suffering. We find ourselves in the dark valleys of life; overwhelmed, afraid, worn out, hurting, alone, and so much more. It is hard for us to endure much less push on through, and we may feel like we simply don't have the strength to continue. We might feel like we are an island all alone, even when we are surrounded by others; and we desperately need a word of encouragement and inspiration to forge on ahead in spite of our feelings. Having a passionate and deeper study life will equip us to combt these things; as we know the Word of truth to lean on.
(Maximizing the Return)
" All scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right. It is God's way of preparing us in every way, fully equipped for every good thing God wants us to do. " + 2 TIMOTHY 3:16&17 +
Many of us read our bibles, we memorize certain verses and passages, and we make these things a part of our daily walks of faith. We are obedient to the call to search the scriptures daily as we forge onward through the peaks and valleys of the lives we lead. Yet some of us have fallen into a casual attitude towards bible study; letting it be more of a process, a system, and have allowed it to become more of a tradition than an actual heartfelt longing for the truth contained in the Word. Studying daily is great, memorizing scripture is admirable, and consistency in searching the scriptures is key to spiritual growth; however, all this is of little benefit if we don't fully grasp the deeper principles or make a conscious choice to apply the concepts in our lives.
Some of us even study with evil motives; seeking to know the Word that we may use it as a tool for leverage, so we can promote our own agenda. Some of us study and memorize the Word in order to give the appearance of righteousness and obedience. Some learn the Word in order to feel superior to others, as we seek to lift ourselves into a position of leadership and authority. We do ourselves, others, and even God an injustice when we have such a shallow approach towards this critical element in our faith.
In order for us to achieve the maximum benefit of scripture, its paramount that we maintain the proper attitude, approach, perspective and dilligence when we read our bibles. If our purpose or intention is evil, then we will not receive the fullness of wisdom and knowledge of God. We will be fighting against the grain for minimal return, and will develop deceptive and contrary views related to those things we read; at best. It is my hope and prayer that this lesson will lead us into a much more rewarding and fruitful study habit.
Let us focus on some key principles regarding study proper preparation and posture; not simply reading, but seeking through prayer and meditation for the deeper truths and power; being consistent; the benefits of it/ability to break chains of spiritual enslavement; and properly wielding the Sword of Truth.
+ Posture & Preparation +
" If you need wisdom-if you want to know what God wants you to do-ask Him and He will gladly tell you. He will not resent your asking. But when you ask Him, be sure that you really expect Him to answer, for a doubtful mind is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind."+ JAMES 1: 5&6 +
Many times we simply sit down in the morning and open up our bibles, read our daily alotted portion of scripture, and go on about our day. While this is not "wrong," per se; it does limit the benefit we can get from our study time. There are however, some things we can do before we even open the bible that will greatly improve the return on the time invested in study. If we get into the habit of doing these things each and every time, we will find a much deeper understanding and greater power in those things we read.
First, let us seek God in prayer; bringing to Him all the things in our lives that may be contrary to His Word and will. If we surrender any sin, or sinful thoughts/intentions before we begin, then those things will no longer be able to obstruct the movement of the Spirit as He ministers to us through our study. We will find it easier to understand what God is trying to tell us; we will find a deeper understanding of the hidden truths and principles that are implied between the lines.
Second, let us ask God to speak to us; let us truly hunger and desire for Him to minister to us and grant a fuller comprehension of what is being given. Let us pray for ears open to His voice, eyes open to the concepts He wills us to learn, a mind ready and receptive of His wisdom and depth of understanding, and a heart free from hardness; that the seeds find good soil, take root deeply, and grow forth to fruitful abundance.
Third, let us maintain a proper attitude and spiritual posture; a humble and reverent perspective. It's important we remember that it is not our studying that causes growth, but God's revelation and minstry through it. We are told in
1 Corinthians 3:6, " My job was to plant the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it; but it was God, not we, who caused the growth." Thus we do well to remember it is not by our power or actions that we receive the benefit but God's.
Once we have nurtured the proper attitude, posture and approach; once we have sought God's movement and providence in our study efforts, then we can begin our lessons with a much more powerful effect.
+ Don't Read; Absorb! +
" Study this book of the Law continually. Meditate on it day and night so you may be sure to obey all that is written in it. Only then will you succeed." + JOSHUA 1:8 +
It is very easy for us to fall into the pattern of simply reading our daily verses or passages and going on about our day; mission accomplished. However, this severely limits the depth of our understanding. We do well to grasp the idea that we can take our morning's study with us everywhere we go that day. For a long time I would read my daily Psalm, my daily Proverb, whatever else I felt led or inclined to study, and proceed with my day. Yet at a point I finally realized that I wasn't contemplating what I had read throughout my daily life. I was very confused about the concept of meditation; thinking meditation was sitting cross-legged and repeating some mantra, as I had seen in movies. As such, I felt quite foolish even considering meditation much less employing it.
Over time I figured out this was a very limited and ignorant view of meditation, and though this method may work for some; it was simply too comical for me to seriously consider. Meditation is not so much about the act; but about the intention, the level of passion or focus, and commitment to delving deeper for a more complete comprehension. For me, meditation is thoughtful and prayerful contemplation; simply repeating the verses and considering what God was trying to say to me; considering how the verses and passages in whole revealed context and underlying truths. It was “revisiting,” what I'd read periodically throughout my day, and thinking about its meaning.
If one looks at this scripture from the beginning of Joshua, it tells us that we should, " Meditate on it day and night." This means we shouldn't simply read it and go on about our business, forgetting what we read. On the contrary we should take time throughout our day and night to revisit what we learned, to reconsider the concepts and principles that were illustrated. Quite often we will find that God will not simply reveal one message or application, but several; and it's key to continue to meditate and consider the Word in order to receive all of what God is trying to tell us. In this manner we don't simply "read," scripture, but we absorb it as it comes alive to us.
A car must have fuel in order to get anywhere, you can have everything else in order; but without fuel, you cannot even start much less move forward. The bible is like our daily gas station; we should be sure to top off first thing in the morning and as needed, this way we have the weapons we need to stand ground in spiritual warfare. Just as well, what happens if there isn't enough juice in the battery? It not only won't start but you will be lucky to get any illumination from the headlights; you must have a fully charged battery to see the obstacles in the road and safely avoid them.
Taking time to meditatively and prayerfully study the bible will help us ensure our spiritual “fuel tanks,” are full; to ensure our lights shine bright enough to see clearly. We will find a much greater power and deliverance in life if we invest the time and effort to learn what God has to say, and prepare to give answer when we are presented with the daily tests that we encounter. We can benefit and grow exponentially if we strive harder, dig deeper and surrender to the washing and renewing of our minds through in depth study.
+ Scripture = Strength +
" Your words are what sustains me. They bring me great joy and are my heart's delight, for I bear your name, O Lord God Almighty."+ JEREMIAH 15:16 +
There are many times in our lives that we encounter periods of trial, tribulation, testing, and even plain old suffering. We find ourselves in the dark valleys of life; overwhelmed, afraid, worn out, hurting, alone, and so much more. It is hard for us to endure much less push on through, and we may feel like we simply don't have the strength to continue. We might feel like we are an island all alone, even when we are surrounded by others; and we desperately need a word of encouragement and inspiration to forge on ahead in spite of our feelings. Having a passionate and deeper study life will equip us to combt these things; as we know the Word of truth to lean on.