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Bible reading is not as popular these days as it once was; however, Bible reading is still just as valuable as it was a thousand years ago. We all will benefit greatly when we set aside some time to study the Word of God. Here are 10 things everyone should consider before their next encounter with the Bible.
1. Search for Truth
There’s nothing wrong with memorizing the most poetic verses, but eloquence is not the primary reason we read the Bible. Our number one reason for reading the Bible should be a search for the truth.
2. Search for the Spirit
Every verse in the Bible was inspired by God; therefore, every verse in the Bible contains the Spirit of God. Keep this in mind whenever you read. Start your reading by seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit living inside.
3. Look for Profit
Whenever we open our Bible, it’s important that we have a goal in mind. As a result, we need to keep reading until we have uncovered the truth we are seeking. We should read with purpose and not simply to delight in the words.
4. Don’t Discriminate
We all have certain books in the Bible that we shy away from for various reasons. Let the Spirit of God guide you in your reading. If you feel called to read your least favorite book, answer the call – today may be the day that your eyes are opened in a new way.
5. Trust the Writer
Some of the books in the Bible were written by authors with exceptional credentials, while other books were written by lesser known authors, and for some books the author is uncertain. What is certain is the fact that God selected each and every author in the Bible. Who the author was, is not as important as what the author wrote. All these writers have passed away, but the truth they wrote that was inspired by God goes on forever.
6. Only Read What You Understand
Some sections of the Bible are difficult to understand – even for Biblical scholars. Don’t let these deeper passages block your progress. Skip over these trouble spots until you can find some trusted guidance or until you have matured in your study. God will open your eyes at the appropriate time.
7. Trust What You Read
Read the Bible with humility. If you’re reading the Bible critically, you’re lost. The real value of the Bible is obtained through faith. Your journey through the pages of the Bible depends completely on your trust in the truth provided.
8. Read for Yourself Not Others
Don’t read the Bible to impress anyone. Read the Bible to connect with God.
9. Ask for Clarification in Prayer
It’s not unusual to have questions every time you read from the Bible. These questions are perfect conversation starters with God. Seek clarification in prayer and over time God will point you in the right direction.
10. All Scripture is Valuable
The Old Testament, the New Testament, the prophets, the Gospels, the psalms – they all have value. Every book in the Bible was placed there for a good reason. Do not scoff at any scripture – no scripture was offered without cause. Some books will have a deeper meaning for you than others, but in time, all the books in the Bible will speak to you if you listen carefully. “All Scripture is inspired by God and beneficial for teaching, for rebuke, for correction, for training in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16) Give all the books in the Bible an opportunity to speak to you. Your study of the Word of God is the most important aspect of your relationship with Jesus. I pray these 10 tips will expand your Biblical point of view. I pray you will be greatly blessed in your effort to move closer to God.
1. Search for Truth
There’s nothing wrong with memorizing the most poetic verses, but eloquence is not the primary reason we read the Bible. Our number one reason for reading the Bible should be a search for the truth.
2. Search for the Spirit
Every verse in the Bible was inspired by God; therefore, every verse in the Bible contains the Spirit of God. Keep this in mind whenever you read. Start your reading by seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit living inside.
3. Look for Profit
Whenever we open our Bible, it’s important that we have a goal in mind. As a result, we need to keep reading until we have uncovered the truth we are seeking. We should read with purpose and not simply to delight in the words.
4. Don’t Discriminate
We all have certain books in the Bible that we shy away from for various reasons. Let the Spirit of God guide you in your reading. If you feel called to read your least favorite book, answer the call – today may be the day that your eyes are opened in a new way.
5. Trust the Writer
Some of the books in the Bible were written by authors with exceptional credentials, while other books were written by lesser known authors, and for some books the author is uncertain. What is certain is the fact that God selected each and every author in the Bible. Who the author was, is not as important as what the author wrote. All these writers have passed away, but the truth they wrote that was inspired by God goes on forever.
6. Only Read What You Understand
Some sections of the Bible are difficult to understand – even for Biblical scholars. Don’t let these deeper passages block your progress. Skip over these trouble spots until you can find some trusted guidance or until you have matured in your study. God will open your eyes at the appropriate time.
7. Trust What You Read
Read the Bible with humility. If you’re reading the Bible critically, you’re lost. The real value of the Bible is obtained through faith. Your journey through the pages of the Bible depends completely on your trust in the truth provided.
8. Read for Yourself Not Others
Don’t read the Bible to impress anyone. Read the Bible to connect with God.
9. Ask for Clarification in Prayer
It’s not unusual to have questions every time you read from the Bible. These questions are perfect conversation starters with God. Seek clarification in prayer and over time God will point you in the right direction.
10. All Scripture is Valuable
The Old Testament, the New Testament, the prophets, the Gospels, the psalms – they all have value. Every book in the Bible was placed there for a good reason. Do not scoff at any scripture – no scripture was offered without cause. Some books will have a deeper meaning for you than others, but in time, all the books in the Bible will speak to you if you listen carefully. “All Scripture is inspired by God and beneficial for teaching, for rebuke, for correction, for training in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16) Give all the books in the Bible an opportunity to speak to you. Your study of the Word of God is the most important aspect of your relationship with Jesus. I pray these 10 tips will expand your Biblical point of view. I pray you will be greatly blessed in your effort to move closer to God.