All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (KJV)

Can I be super honest? I have a lot of work to do in this area this year. I have been disobedient in setting time aside regularly just to study. Not read, I do that every day, but study. Reading is just what it is – reading the words on the page. Don’t get me wrong, reading is good, and necessary. But studying is when you really get the weight and revelation of Scripture. Studying means researching the origin and meanings of the words, digging into the historical context, reading commentaries and various translations, and creating the complete and larger picture.  What happens when you don’t study and understand the Bible for yourself? You leave yourself vulnerable to false doctrine and manipulation by others with ulterior motives. Plus, you miss out on the opportunity to get to really know who God has been and continues to be.

The greatest benefit of studying the Scriptures is that it reveals God and His Word to be so much more than what we see on the surface. When you create a contextual view of what is on the pages, God’s power, mercy, and most importantly, love, come alive. The Bible is full of life application. But if you’re reading it only on the surface, it can appear to be just an old, outdated book of stories with no relevance to life today.  It was through studying the Psalms that I learned David’s laments were so relatable because he also likely suffered from chronic diseases – most likely osteoarthritis and/or diabetes. My frequent research on 2 Corinthians 12 led me to multiple explanations of Paul’s thorn – some of which suggest the thorn to be a chronic illness. And it was through my inquiring and digging deeper that I found the scriptural basis for my own calling (John 9:1-3).

It is no secret that studying the Word is beneficial and imperative to personal and spiritual growth. But scheduling time in our busy schedules doesn’t always come as a priority. We’ve become accustomed to putting everything ahead of God, when really, God should come before all else. 2019, for me, means making Him and His Word a priority. Personally, I’m setting an hour aside each day to go deeper. That means a schedule, putting it in the calendar, and setting reminders just as I do with my other activities and appointments. I pray you’ll join me in making the commitment!

Food for Thought: Do you take time every day for studying the Bible? If no, are you willing to make 2019 the year you start? Creating habits takes time (21 days, according to research); set calendar reminders to keep you on track. If yes, do you need to set aside more time or do you need to refocus? I received an email of these Five Simple Steps for Studying the Bible earlier this year. I hope it will be as useful to you as it was to me.