To learn how to study God’s Word effectively, we should begin with prayer and find a quiet, dedicated time and place to practise consistently. Then utilise methods such as slow reading, asking questions, and actively engaging with God by asking Him questions.
Apart from writing observations and applying principles to our lives, we should always strive to understand the context and align our actions with Christ’s teachings so that our deeds glorify the Lord. We could limit ourselves to reading the Bible; however, it is not a book like any other; it is inspired by God.
Through which God speaks and teaches us His ways, it is alive and powerful in transforming, defending, and healing us (Hebrews 4:12). Therefore, we should learn how to study God’s Word effectively to stay connected to the Lord and receive the necessary benefits, for the scripture says, ‘For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also’ (Matthew 6:21).
When we read the Bible or listen to it (sometimes while going about our daily tasks), we do not always have enough time to examine it carefully or reflect on what we read to grasp its true meaning.
Nevertheless, Bible study is the only true way to understand the character of God, His nature and principles, and, most importantly, to know what God requires of us—obedience. In our prayers, Bible reading, and interactions with God, we often concentrate more on our concerns about what we need from God.
But we tend to overlook, or more accurately, care less about what God requires from us. As we know, obedience is essential; therefore, He gave us the Ten Commandments. Obeying them boosts His love for us and helps us connect with one another. It also influences how well we are progressing in learning how to study God’s Word effectively.
Furthermore, it also enlightens us about God’s will for our lives. It is undeniable that He created us and, in His image, we are certainly His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, so that we should walk in them (Ephesians 2:10).
Therefore, each of us is meant to benefit from divine will. And God’s will is the best thing that can happen to anyone, as He assures us in Jeremiah 29:11, saying, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Who wouldn’t like that!
No wonder it has always been believed that the most important things in a person’s life are God’s words on any matter of significance to them. Why? Because God spoke, and it happened; He said, “Let there be light,” and light appeared.
Therefore, always pray that God speaks on any matter of great importance to you, for it will surely come to pass. Since “we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).
Finally, the Bible addresses our personal journeys, guiding us to live a victorious life on earth and to persevere in faith until the Father calls us or Jesus returns. This assurance is based on the promise of divine protection, as stated in Psalm 121:3-4: He will not let your foot slip.
An extra benefit of studying God’s Word effectively is the ability to memorise Bible verses. Often, situations arise that require recalling specific passages to protect one’s heart, strengthen faith, resist temptation, or encourage others. Likewise, during challenges, spiritual battles, and moments when the Lord feels distant, it can be very comforting.
In fact, memorising the Bible requires the Lord’s anointing. Those who wish to memorise Scripture should pray for it, which is often granted to those called to serve as clergy.
Nevertheless, recall His famous saying in Matthew 7:7-8: “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.” This is how to study God’s Word Effectively, for the Lord is our strength.
How to proceed?
1. Choose a book
In truth, all 66 books of the Bible must be studied. So don’t limit yourself to your favourite passages (if you have any). God can speak to you through all of His Word. But which book should you start with? All.
Start with the Gospels
It is generally recommended to begin with the New Testament, especially the gospels. For those starting their journey with Christ, it is often advised to begin with the gospel of John because it emphasises God’s love for us, demonstrated through His Son. However, you are free to start with any gospel, and it is wise to ask Him first.
Just follow the order of the books
If you wish, you may start with the book of Genesis instead. This advice will help you develop a structured, coherent approach, thereby helping you understand how to study the Word effectively.
Alternate the two Testaments
This approach could help you understand the relationship between God and humanity before the coming of Jesus (Old Testament) and during Jesus’s ministry (New Testament).
Follow a Bible study program
You can follow the programme at your local church or use reading plans available in bookstores or online; these plans often feature specific themes. The advantage is that you can easily share your questions or uncertainties with other members of your group.
2. Plan your time
Morning: You can choose a time before you begin your daily tasks. Alternatively, you may arrive at the office earlier and carry out your Bible study during a period when your colleagues are not distracting you.
During the day: You can choose to take your lunch break or spend an hour in the afternoon if you have a lot to manage in the morning and evening. However, generally, after lunch, we often feel very tired. Your productivity and energy levels can be tested.
Evening: If you have more time and energy, the best choice is to select a time that is not too late and when everything around you is quiet. If possible, you could wait until everyone is asleep or wake up during the night to have some time alone with God.
3. Choose a quiet place
This is an appointment with God, a moment of closeness with your Creator. You want to listen to Him, and He wants to speak to you. Therefore, minimise distractions as much as possible.
4. Opt for a paper Bible instead of a digital Bible
With smartphones and other devices, you can be exposed to distractions. The benefit of the paper Bible is that there will be no adverts, messages, bugs, etc. You can bring a highlighter to mark passages to remember and use a page marker to resume your study where you left off. However, if you prefer the audio Bible because you perhaps understand the Word of God better when it is spoken, I advise you to disconnect from all means of interaction with others, including your internet connection, so you are not distracted.
5. Pray before you start
Since the Bible is unlike any other book, you need the Holy Spirit’s help to understand what God intends to teach you. Therefore, pray to the Lord so that, through Him, you may comprehend His message (John 16:23).
6. Choose a translation
There are different translations of the Bible. The best choice is to pick one that matches your language and uses words and expressions you understand. You might, for example, compare the various translations you have access to and choose the one you understand most clearly. However, NIV and Good News are recommended for beginners.
7. Be regular in study
Establish a routine. To begin with, you don’t need to do a Bible study every day. You can choose a simple and achievable frequency. For example, start with once a week and stick to that schedule. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t read the Bible on other days.
8. Start with one or two verses per Bible study session
It is uninteresting to study a lengthy text for hours if you are not used to reading the Word. This could discourage you in the long run. Starting small prevents you from having to analyse many pieces of information at once. Do not try to understand everything in a single day because that is not an effective way to study God’s Word.
