How to Study the Bible?

10 March 2013 by Mindy Oon CM-

 

“How to Study the Bible? Where to Start? How to Get Past Leviticus!” These are but a few questions that I have heard many Christians, especially new believers, ask. And these are relevant questions, as many of us struggle with reading and understanding the Word of God.

 

 

The Bible is no ordinary book. It is powerful and alive, and it can bring change in our lives. Proverbs 4:20-22 says ‘My son, give attention to my words; incline your ears to my sayings. Do not let them depart from your eyes; Keep them in the midst of your heart; For they are life to those who find them, And health to their flesh. ‘Attending’ to the Word of God is a lot more than just reading it, it is meditating on it.

God’s word brings direction, encouragement, healing, health and life. When we are in trouble, mediating on God’s word will allow it to penetrate our hearts and work in the situations we find ourselves in. However it would be even better if we started meditating on the Word of God before we get into trouble!

So the question is, “What do I study?” and “What am I supposed to read?” – There really no wrong or right place to start. You can study anything that will help you and if you can’t think of anything, using a concordance and picking a word might help. Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you and reveal things to you. Most importantly, apply what you study and what you have read to your life.

 

 

Four Effective Steps to Studying the Bible:

First, purposely set aside time to read the Bible. Make an appointment with God in the morning, or a time that is suitable for you. The hardest part to this, probably, is getting started. However, just start somewhere and you will soon see how reading the Bible and meditating on His word will change your life.

Second, prepare for your Bible study. Choose a place where you enjoy relaxing and can study. For example, a room in your house, or somewhere comfortable where you can be alone. I know of a friend who reads his Bible in his car during his lunch hour. It soon became his ‘lunch time with God’

Third, make sure you have all your materials that you need. Of course, you will need your Bible. A Bible dictionary, concordance and devotional will also help. Have a pen and paper handy so that you can write down what the Holy Spirit is revealing to you. You don’t want to have to stop every few minutes to go and get something.

And finally, prepare your heart to receive from the Lord. Talk to the Lord, and confess the things that you might need to confess. Enter your study time without anything that might block you from receiving revelation from Him. Have and open heart, and do not be afraid to obey what God tells you to do.

The Word of God has power to change your life. It will help you to become the person God wants you to be. No matter when you do it – morning, night, afternoon – or how long you do it, God’s Word will always make a difference. Sometimes even just one verse from the Bible will turn your day around! 

 

 

Dear Viewers in Christ, if you find this article edifying to you, please share with your friends or loved ones by using the social media plugs (Share, Email to this article). The Lord will surely bless you as you bless others. May the Lord’s peace and love be with you.

 

Reference for pictures:

http://www.cpcsschools.com/talon/2012/10/16/bible-studies/

http://sethsoasis.files.wordpress.com/2012/07/esv-coffee-bible1.jpg