From the Message on Sunday 6/11. Helpful tips to deepen your Bible Studies
1.Set a time and place for studing your bible.
It’s important to find a place where you won’t get distracted.
• Researchers show that around half of our daily actions are derived by repetition.
Researchers say that
Habit is a behavior done with little to no thought. While routine involves a series of behaviors done frequently, and intentionally.
•A behavior has to be regularly performed before it can become a habit.
2.When opening your bible. Ask the holy spirit to help you understand the text. Then expect to hear from God.
John 10:27 NLT
My sheep hear my voice; and I know them, and they follow me.
James 1:5
If you lack wisdom you should ask God, who is generous to give it to you.
So let’s start thier ask the holy spirit to bring you understanding and wisdom in the word of God. For he is generous to give it to us.
2 Tim 3:16-17 Amp
All Scripture is God-breathed [given by divine inspiration] and is profitable for instruction, for conviction [of sin], for correction [of error and restoration to obedience], for training in righteousness [learning to live in conformity to God’s will, both publicly and privately—behaving honorably with personal integrity and moral courage]; so that the man of God may be complete and proficient, outfitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work. The Word of God is God-breathed.Given to us for inspiration, instruction, conviction, correction and training, So that we may be complete, proficient and thoroughly equipped for every good work. God will bring us wisdom and understanding if we ask, as it says in James 1:5 .The Word of God is our fathering guide of correction, and conviction of sin. It is our comfort. It is our sword that helps us divide where we are being attacked by the enemy. With what God says over our situations
Jos 1:8 NLT
Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.
• We must meditate on the word.
Meditation is just repetition in thought. When we repetivally think on something good or bad. We are meditating on it.
3. Application
Matt 13:12 NLT
To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given, and they will have an abundance of knowledge. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them.
When reading the word. Think of how you can apply this to your own life. We must hold God’s word in our hearts like treasures from God, being mindful to obey them.
4. Become a student of the word
No more playing bible roulette.
Although God can use this method at times.we shouldn’t use this regularly in our study time.
My suggestion find a book in the bible and start from the beginning. Dig deep .. Find out Who the author is ? Who was the intended Audience? Is this book you are reading. A Historical book, Law, poetry, The Gospels or prophecy?
This will help you understand the text better.
5.Find a good study bible
Having a good study bible will help with some of the things I listed in number 4.
6. Don’t be afraid to ask questions.
Don’t feel stupid. This is how we learn and grow. I have asked Pastor Mike and Pastor Tom many questions over the years.
ALSO REMEMBER THIER IS NO SET WAY TO STUDY THE WORD OF GOD.
These are just some things that have helped me in my study time. I hope it is helpful for you in your study time with God.
Come visit us on Sunday Mornings at 10am to hear more!