Studying The Bible

One thing that I have heard about reading the Bible is that it's overwhelming, and I can understand that. There are somedays I look into what seems like blank pages because I don't know where to begin. So I pick a chapter from the book of Psalm (one of my favorite books in the Bible) or a proverb from the chapter's date (if it's the 4th of the month, I'll read Proverbs 4). Doing these simple things help a lot in being able to relate to the Word. Otherwise why should I even be reading it if I'm not going to get anything out of it? That is to be equipped to be obedient to God in my daily life.

Psalm 119:5-8 says,

"Oh, that my actions would consistently reflect your decrees! Then I will not be ashamed when I compare my life with your commands. As I learn your righteous regulations, I will thank you by living as I should! I will obey tour decrees. Please don't give up on me!"

The psalmist makes a valid plea that I think each of us should make when we are getting into our Bibles. We need to ask for help to be "consistent" in reflecting what the Word teaches. Somewhere recently I heard "...and I wonder if the Bible will be the same," refering to the revelation of God's word when the King of Kings returns to earth. Will what we read in our Bibles in this life reflect what we see as the truth in the next? Do we know God well enough through his word to be able to recognize him when he comes? Can we truly say we have been obedient to his Word all our lives? I can't say that I have, but praise God for his mercy and grace that I can come to him, and plea for help in knowing his regulations and decrees so that I can know the truth; the truth of Jesus Christ. The truth that sets us free in every areas of our lives (John 8:32).

Today, as you start getting into your Bible, pray what the psalmist in Psalm 119:5-8 prayed. Ask for God's guidance for understanding his word. Even ask where to begin if you do not know where to begin! He will show you the way. His ways, through his word.