The first component to ezra710Living is to study. Why study the Bible diligently? Is there a command we have to study our Bible everyday? These are good questions to ponder. How about starting with the word “study”. For some this sounds appealing and exciting, for others it brings thoughts of drudgery, or a “must do activity”.
Let’s start by exploring the dictionary definition of the word study; the devotion of time and attention to acquiring knowledge on a subject, a detailed investigation and analysis of a subject or situation. Additionally, the Latin term for study is “stadium’ zeal”, meaning painstaking application. So, in essence, the dictionary tells us, studying is a process of detailed devotion to learning good examples through investigation and painstaking application. Now don’t lose hope here, for God’s word truly does encourage, motivate, and bring great growth as we study, practice, and teach.
So, lets return to the questions above, why study diligently and is there a biblical command to study our Bible every day? What does the Bible tell us?
Joshua 1:8 – This book of the Law must not depart from your mouth. Meditate on it day and night so that you may act carefully according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way successful, and you will be wise. (Studying God’s word will guide your days to more success’ by careful living and growing in wisdom.)
Psalm 119:11-12 – Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I may not sin against You. Blessed are You, O Lord, teach me Your statutes. (Studying God’s word helps us to combat sin, through our own personal teacher and Lord, Jesus)
1 Peter 3:15 – Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is good and acceptable and the perfect will of God. (Studying God’s word can actually change our thought patterns to be in line with God’s purpose in our life.)
Hebrews 4:12 – For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul and spirit, joints and marrows, as it judges the thoughts and purposes of the heart. (Studying God’s word is like a thorough spring cleaning of your heart, and soul. It is the tool He uses to expose our thoughts and desires that may not be in line with His purpose for us)
These are just a few verses addressing the benefits of studying the Bible diligently. There are no verses commanding us to read our Bible every day. But, once you are encouraged and drawn in by the Living Word, daily reading will become a desired time of fellowship with the Lord.
Lastly, I leave you with a quote from D.L. Moody, “Merely reading the Bible is no use at all without studying it thoroughly, and, hunt it through as it were some great truth.”