Understanding God’s Word:
A Guide in How to Study the Word of God
Studying the Bible should be the most sought after time of the day for believers. However, many find that they are left confused and frustrated by their efforts. Where do I start? What is the scripture saying? What is the author writing? Is this for me? How do I tell others? These are just a few of the questions that many of us find filling our minds and hearts as we read.
Pastor Don teaches that if you know the right questions to ask, the Bible will begin to unfold and teach in a way that brings Christian growth to all readers. Simple steps that we all can apply. What does the verse say? What does the verse mean? What are the facts this verse is telling? What do these facts and principles mean to me? What will I do now that I know these facts? Simple yet profound questions like these help us to understand God’s word.
Many followers of Christ want to study and learn from the Bible, but find that they are met with frustration because they do not know where to begin and how to understand what Christ is teaching them through God’s Word. These basic, specific steps will not only teach you the how to study, but will lay a foundation of growth in your daily quest to have the mind of Christ.
Bible Reading Schedule
Jesus said, man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God… ~Matthew 4:4
Here are some suggestions which will encourage daily Bible reading!
(1) Make Bible reading a priority
When something is important enough to us, we will make sure it is done first. If we give Bible reading first place, we will schedule the necessary time needed.
(2) Eliminate whatever might get in the way
Ask yourself what one thing is most likely to get in the way of your Bible reading. It might be television or video games or whatever. Eliminate or reduce “that one thing” for a month. If you will make time for the Bible and read it regularly you will love it – your quest will be for knowledge and truth!
(3) Build in accountability
Start reading the Bible with your friends; or, let someone know you are starting on this path. The important thing is that Christians encourage one another on a regular basis. Most of us will try harder if we know someone is going to ask” us about our effort.
(4) Pray to God for help
Ask Him to help YOU, and ask Him to also help others to attain this goal of daily Bible reading. He has promised to help those who ask for it!
The following list of Bible Helps will be of aid to you as you study your Bible.
Online Resources
Do you ever need help finding a Bible verse for a particular topic? Are there times you need to research a meaning of a verse? Do people quote verses without the references?
Blue Letter Bible
Crosswalk
What the Bible Says About…
4truth
Bible Gateway