How to Study the Bible (3)
Joe R. Price

Some people do not enjoy studying anything. For them, studying is a job akin to pulling wisdom teeth. For others, it is a necessary task, best enjoyed when finished. Then again, some study for pleasure. They enjoy learning new things, analyzing, and theorizing, etc. Still others view study as useful – practical to achieve their goals. I suspect most of us, at one time or another have experienced these attitudes and approaches to study, whether it was school homework, a research project, a work assignment, or an instruction manual.

We ought to acknowledge the benefits of Bible study. Above all other disciplines, our study of the Bible impacts us now and eternally. We should devote ourselves to the ongoing study of it, since we are commanded to understand the will of the Lord (Eph. 5:17). To do that we must engage our minds to think, examine, and discern the Scriptures. Otherwise, we forfeit the blessings God gives us through His word (2 Tim. 3:16-17; 2 Pet. 1:3-4; 3:18).

As discussed in parts one and two of this series, we must respect the Bible as the word of God, and devote ourselves to learning it and living it (1 Tim. 4:12-16; Psa. 119:124-128).

1) Successful Bible study takes effort. Learning requires putting in the time and energy to study and learn. Studying is hard work! Solomon acknowledged that “much study is wearisome to the flesh” (Eccl. 12:12). But, that is true of most everything we do that is beneficial to us (both physically and spiritually). We won’t study the Bible unless we see the advantages of expending our time and energy to do so. Christians are committed to living by faith (2 Cor. 5:7). Since faith is made stronger by putting God’s word into our hearts and lives, making the effort to study the Scriptures is our faith at work (Rom. 10:17; 1 Pet. 2:1-3; Jas. 1:21-25). It is easy to excuse our lack of Bible study with other worthy responsibilities. But, it is not an “either, or” thing, it is a “this and that” thing. Leaving Bible study unattended is not justified by attending to other things. To adapt the words of Jesus, “This you ought to have done, without leaving the other undone” (Matt. 23:23).

2) Develop good study habits. Paul told Timothy to “Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all” (1 Tim. 4:15). As a suggestion, try setting “rocks” in your schedule, set times strictly dedicated to Bible study. Establishing a routine where Bible study is a part of your day is a great way to keep on growing in the grace and knowledge of the Lord (2 Pet. 3:18). Remove as many distractions as possible. This will help you focus on your study. Turn off the TV. Disengage social media, and turn up the volume of God’s word. “Oh, how I love Your law! It is my meditation all the day” (Psa. 119:97). We can’t study all day long, but we can meditate on what we have studied, and then return to the Scriptures to be sure our meditations are in harmony with the word of truth.

3) Know what you plan to study. A haphazard approach to Bible study produces haphazard results. Be deliberate. Pick your topic, text, character, time period, passage, chapter, book, etc. Don’t bite off more than you can chew. Little by little, regular Bible study will bless you with a better understanding of God’s will and its application in your life (Matt. 7:21; 2 Tim. 2:15).     (to be continued)