I have sat under the teaching of good and godly men. Often I would hear them give a challenge to read the Word for themselves. We were encouraged to take what they preach and examine it to see if what they say is true. I have also sat under good and godly teachers that encourage others to know that what a preacher/teacher does to prepare they can do, too. This advice has given me a deep desire for study. Joining many Bible Studies over the years has given me helpful tools and ways in which to study.
Dr. Hendricks gives 3 reasons why we should study the Word of God.
- Growth
- Maturity
- Guidance
You and I shouldn't study for the sake of knowledge alone. We must come to rely on the truths that are revealed to us. They must change us and transform us from the inside out. It doesn't matter the books on your shelf, the degrees on your wall or the hours spent at weekly Bible Studies if you do not see the above results in your life. The Word of God should cause you to see growth and maturity develop in your life. The Word should be the place you go for guidance, as well as peace, comfort and your marching orders for the day.
I write this because it is easy for me to be a Bible study junkie. It is easy to learn facts and find answers to questions and fill in the blanks. But is transformation taking place? Do you know Jesus more intimately? When you finish a Bible study are you different than when you began?
Dr. Hendricks believes that the study of God's Word is so important because "it is the process of seeing the Lord come into your life."
Today as you study I pray that the Lord will meet you there and reveal Himself to you and that you will be changed for having spent time with Him.
Kathy Withers
Life Action/Revive magazine, Volume 40, Issue 3, page 8-9
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