Digging Deeper: Tips Studying Scripture

As Christians, we all know the Bible is important. Seems pretty obvious, right? But there's a lot in it, and that can feel overwhelming. And if you're anything like me, you are tempted to avoid things that are overwhelming, even something as important as reading God's Word. I neglected His Word for many years until I learned that reading the Bible doesn't have to feel like a chore. Now it is one of my favorite things to do. Reading His Word, even for a few minutes a day, can be a truly uplifting and life-changing habit. If you're not sure where to start, here are a few tips to help you get to the heart of God's Word when reading your Bible:

1. Start with prayer: Before opening your Bible, pray to the Lord and humbly ask Him to open your heart and mind to His Word.

2. Choose a method: There are many different ways to study the Bible. You can read through it chronologically, topically, or by book. I'd suggest going by book, starting with the New Testament. But that's just my preference. Everyone's different. There are also many directed Bible study methods out there you can check out.

3. Take your time: Don't try to rush through Bible study. God loves to teach us patience (whether we like it or not), and one of the best ways to grow your "patience muscle" is by reading your Bible slowly and deliberately. Soak in each word. If something doesn't make sense read through it again and think about why it doesn't make sense. Be analytical. Look for connections, both in other parts of the Bible and, more importantly, within yourself! 

4. Use study tools: There are many helpful resources available to help you study the Bible, such as commentaries, dictionaries, and concordances. I suggest purchasing a robust study Bible that has all of those resources within. A good study Bible will provide the resources mentioned above and will also give a frame of reference for when the books were written and how they relate to historical events at the time.

5. Write about it: Begin keeping a journal to write down your thoughts and insights. I've found that writing what I'm thinking helps me to retain what I've learned and to understand more of what God is saying. I also keep a highlighter and a stack of Post-it Notes close by. If there's a verse I feel is important or that I don't quite understand, I write my thoughts about it on a Post-it Note and leave it on that page for review later. But at the very least, write a short synopsis of what you learned and thought at the end of every reading session.

6. Be patient: I know I sound redundant here, but remember to be patient. Not just patient while you are actively reading the Bible. Be patient with your journey. You will not capture the myriad messages within the Bible quickly. You're not supposed to. If you're having trouble understanding what you're learning, that's just God saying, "Please stick around. I've got so much more to share with you." 

7. Consistency: Just like anything important in life, getting the most out of Bible study requires consistency. Just like exercise, golf, or playing an instrument, we have to put in the time required to reap the rewards. God isn't even asking for much. Just a few minutes a day will make a difference in your relationship with God. Make time for the Lord, and He will reveal so much to you.

8. Find a study partner: While each person's walk with God is deeply personal, being a Christian also requires being part of a community. You will retain so much more from your reading if you study with others. Everyone interprets things differently and comes from a different perspective. It has often been through others that God has revealed some of His most insightful messages to me.

9. Live what you learn: You not only have to make time for Bible study but you also have to put it to use in your daily life. As you go through your day, remember the things you have learned in your studies. When you're having a particularly troubling day, pull out your journal and read through it. If you've been consistent in your studies, you'll be sure to find something you've learned in your Bible study that will help.

10. Don't give up: I know I've said this twice already, but be patient! God works on His own schedule. He knows what is best for us. He will reveal to us what we need when we need it.

I truly hope these tips will inspire you on your journey with God. I promise you, God has so many wonderful things to share with you in His Word.

- Kayin