This week I would like to take a look at why we read God’s word. What difference can it make reading the Bible in a person’s life? 2 Timothy 2:15 says “Study to show yourself approved. This means more than just reading the words, It’s to Study the words.
In God’s word, we find the encouragement needed to keep ourselves rooted in Scripture through the Apostle Paul’s confirmation that “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 complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17 NKJV). But how are we connecting with the power of God’s Word in our everyday lives? Or maybe the better question is why should we?
When we find ourselves in the middle of life’s storms, we turn to the verses that comfort our hearts, reminding us that God is still in control. In the celebrations of life, we turn to the stories that share the everlasting joy and love made available through our Lord Jesus.
The one thing that connects all of our interactions of receiving, reflecting, and responding to the Bible, is the Power of God’s Words. The belief is that what we’re reading or listening to will speak into and transform our hearts, bringing us ultimately closer to the heart of our Heavenly Father.
Through an extensive 8-year research project that surveyed more than 100,000 people worldwide, the Center for Bible Engagement (CBE) found that engaging/reading/studying the Bible 4 or more days a week is a key predictor of spiritual growth for Christians.
The concept of spiritual growth can look different depending on who you ask. So, what do we mean by spiritual growth? CBE defines it as “becoming less of the person I was before I committed my life to following Jesus” and “more like Christ in my thoughts, words and deeds.” Through the close-ended and open-ended questions of their survey, CBE measured this growth through moral behavior, emotional struggles, and self-assessment.
As a result of their findings, CBE came to establish their guiding principle known as “The Power of 4.”. While this is not meant to be a magic formula that promises a life free of struggles and worries, it does show a reliable model from which rich spiritual fruit grows. Their findings also align with much of the important research done by other organizations, such as Willow Creek Association and Lifeway Research.
Some proven areas of spiritual life in which the four or more days a week of Bible engagement make a significant impact include:
Proactive Faith: People who engage with the Bible 4 or more days of the week are more likely to give financially, memorize scripture, and share their faith.
Less Spiritual Stagnation: Regular Bible engagement reduces feelings of spiritual stagnation and the sense that one cannot please God.
Decreased Struggles: Engaging with the Bible consistently is linked to a decreased likelihood of struggling with feelings of bitterness, destructive thinking, difficulty forgiving others, and discouragement.
Reduced Temptations: Frequent Bible engagement is associated with a reduced likelihood of giving in to temptations such as drinking to excess, viewing pornography, and lashing out in anger.
While our relationships with God continue to be strengthened by the practice of prayer, church attendance, and growing together in community, Bible engagement has repeatedly proven to be a unique predictor of growth. The Scriptures are filled with the special, hope-filled promises that God has for His people. And every time we open its pages, each discovery tells a little bit more about how wonderful, mighty, and loving our God is—and who we are called to be in Him.
One of the ways that God speaks to us is through His words, in the Bible. So many Christians say they have never heard God speaking to them. My question is “How often do you read God’s word.” The usual response is “Well sometimes…” But do you ever study the Bible? The answer is “No”.
If I had a treasure map in my hand… but never looked at it, do you think I would find the treasure? I don’t think so. The only way to find the treasure would be to study the map and then to take action to find it. The Bible is our treasure map. When we study God’s word, He speaks to us and reveals countless treasures He has for us.
My friend, if it’s been a while since you’ve read God’s word, maybe it’s time to start to study it. You may have been asking God for guidance and advice on something, while all the time the answer is in the Bible. So, my challenge to you is to read and study God’s word. Think about what it’s saying to you. You might be surprised at what you find out.
If it’s been a while since you heard God speaking to you through the Bible, it may be time to look at your relationship with the Lord. God communicates with all who love and serve Him. If you have lost this Communication with the Lord Jesus, there is no better time than right now to re-establish it. It’s easy and free. In 1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Please my friend, take a moment right now and pray to Jesus. He’s waiting for you!
May God Bless and Keep you!!!
Bob
I thank you for reading my blog. I do not claim to be any expert or affiliated with any religious organization. All I can say is that I’m affiliated with my Lord Jesus Christ. This is one man’s opinion and observation. My hope is I stirred up some thoughts for you to think about. There is one place that we can find all the answers to life. That road map is commonly known as the Bible. If you want the answers to life all you have to do is read. If you would like me to pray with you or want to send a comment, please email me at Bob.L@magnificentpromises.com or the form below.
For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him shall not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16
