We could limit ourselves to reading the Bible. However, it is not a book like any other; it is inspired by God. It is alive and effective in transforming and healing us (Hebrews 4:12). When we read the Bible or listen to it (sometimes while we carry out our daily tasks), we do not always have time to examine it closely. However, Bible study is the only true way to know the character of God, his nature, and his principles. It also enlightens us on God’s will for our lives. Finally, the Bible speaks to us about us, tells us how to live a victorious life on earth, and fight the good fight of faith until the Father calls us or Jesus returns.
Another benefit of studying the Bible is memorizing Bible verses. Indeed, you may face a situation that requires you to remember certain verses, whether it is to guard your heart, strengthen your faith, resist temptation, or even exhort a brother for example. But you can only remember what you have studied and retained. Memorizing verses helps us remember God’s promises in difficult times and when the wait seems endless or the Lord seems far from us or absent.
How to proceed?
1. Choose a book
In reality, all 66 books of the Bible need to be studied. So don’t limit yourself to your favorite passages (if you have any). God can speak to you through all of His Word. But which book should you start with?
Start with the Gospels
It is generally recommended to begin with the New Testament, specifically the gospels. For those who are just learning to walk with Christ, it is often recommended to begin with the gospel of John, because it emphasizes God’s love for us, manifested in his Son. However, you are free to begin with any gospel.
Just follow the order of the books
If you wish, you can start with the book of Genesis instead. This tip will allow you to have a structured and coherent approach.
Alternate the two Testaments
This approach could help you understand the relationship between God and humanity before the coming of Jesus (Old Testament), and then the ministry of Jesus (New Testament).
Follow a Bible study program
You can follow the program of your local church or reading plans that can be found in bookstores or on the Internet; these programs are often accompanied by specific themes. The advantage is that you can easily share your questions or your gray areas with the other members of your group.
2. Plan your time
Morning: You can choose a time in the morning before you go about your daily tasks. You could also arrive at the office earlier and do your Bible study during an hour when you are not solicited by your colleagues.
During the day: You can choose your lunch break or an hour in the afternoon if you have a lot to manage in the morning and evening. However, in general, after lunch, we often feel very tired. Your productivity and energy can be put to the test.
Evening: If you have more time and energy in the evening, the ideal would be to choose a time that is not too late and when everything is quiet around you. If possible, you could wait until everyone is asleep or get 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 intimacy with your Creator. You want to listen to Him, and He wants to talk to you. So, avoid 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 advantage of the paper Bible is that there will be no ads, no messaging, no bugs, etc. You can bring a highlighter to mark the passages to remember and use a page guard to resume the 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 cut off all means of interacting with people, including your internet connection so that you are not distracted.
5. Pray before you start
Since the Bible is not a book like any other, you need the help of the Holy Spirit to understand what God wants to teach you. So, pray to the Lord so that, through him, you can understand his message (John 16:23).
6. Choose a translation
There are several translations of the Bible. The ideal is to choose one that corresponds to your language, that uses words and expressions that you understand. You could, to do this, compare the different translations that you have (or to which you have access) and choose the one that you understand best.
7. Be regular in study
Develop a routine. To begin with, you don’t have to do a Bible study every day. You could opt for a simple and realistic frequency. For example, start with one day a week and stick to that schedule. But that doesn’t exempt you from reading the Bible on other days.
8. Start with one or two verses per Bible study session
It is not interesting to study a long text for long hours if you are not used to reading the Word. This could discourage you in the long run. Starting small allows you not to have to analyze several pieces of information at once. Do not try to understand everything in one day.
