Fully Experiencing ScriptureSample

READING GOD’S WORD

Nehemiah 8:3--Those who invest time and energy into reading God’s Word stand a much better chance of growing in their new life in Christ than those who rely merely upon hearing what others tell them about God’s Word. Indeed, reading the Bible might be the greatest single factor in spiritual growth. Public Scripture reading was a regular part of the worship services in Israel and in the early church. Not everyone then had their own copy of the Scriptures, and not everyone could read. Today, however, we live in a time when literacy rates are higher than ever and the Bible is readily accessible. As you seek to engage the Scriptures in study, here are a few suggestions to aid you in receiving the greatest benefit from doing so:

a. Read prayerfully. Ask the Spirit of God to help and guide you as you read (Ps. 119:18).

b. Read thoughtfully. Think about the meaning and implications of what you are reading.

c. Read carefully. Take careful note not only of the words that are used but also of how they relate to one another.

d. Read regularly. It is good to have a particular time every day when you habitually give yourself to the reading of the Word of God.

e. Read repeatedly. It may be of great help to read the same portion over daily for a month’s time. This is a good way for its words to take root in your heart. If you are reading a short book, read it every day. Divide longer books into manageable portions of two or three chapters and read that portion through every day.

f. Read extensively. Sometimes it is of great help to read large portions of the Word of God through at one sitting. If you do this, do it at a time when you are alert and not likely to be disturbed during your reading.

g. Read faithfully. Inevitably there will be days when you will not read the Bible. Strive to keep these gaps as brief as possible. When you miss a day or two, faithfully resume your practice of reading God’s Word the next day.

h. Read obediently. Because the Bible is God’s Word written for you, it is essential to obey it (Ex. 24:3).

This Bible study is an excerpt from The OPEN Bible, Published by Thomas Nelson Bibles