For me, studying my Bible used to be a struggle earlier on in my life. I simply didn't know how to for the most part. I used to just read, and then it would go in one ear and out of the other. I'd never give it time to sink in. But as I've gotten older and matured, my curiosity and heart has changed...I have a want and feel the need to study my Bible. Especially because of the time and generation that we live in today, we need to know our Bibles.
For those of you who are in the same place that I used to be in, pray to God that He'll show you how to study/learn His Word, pray for the understanding. Obviously some things are hard for us to wrap our minds around, I get that, but God will give you exactly what you need if you only ask Him. I advise anyone and everyone, before you sit down and study, ask God to open your heart and your eyes to His truth. Open your study with a heartfelt prayer, and you will come out with a song on your heart and a smile upon your lips. Alongside my Bible, I love to use a favorite notebook/journal to write down what sticks with me as I read. Especially in my Bible class or in Church, having that specific notebook so I can write down things that people say that may stick out to me, Bible verses that encourage me, or any sort of advice, it's amazing to look back on. When studying by myself, I usually use my journal to write down the reference on what I'm reading, what I got from it, and how to apply it to my life. And sometimes I'll reference similar or other Bible verses that could go along with my reading for that day, in the margin. This helps me so much to really go into depth and to know what I'm reading. Another thing I like to use is the commentary in my Bible. Not everyone's Bible has a commentary and that's fine, there's nothing wrong with that. But I do find that whenever I struggle understanding a verse, it helps a lot to look at the bottom of my Bible at that commentary and to see what kind of comments they have to say about the verse and how they explain it. It helps me understand His Word just a little bit better. One thing we all have to remember though, is that the commentary section is man's opinion/thoughts. I recommend when studying, to use a Bible dictionary. Most Bibles these days have dictionaries/concordances in the back of them, which I find really handy when you want to look up something. It gives further explanation for a specific word, and it breaks it down for a little human brain like mine :P . I keep highlighters and pencils in my Bible at all times! I really sugguest this to anyone. I can't tell you how many times I highlight verses in my Bible. They're all amazing. So, when I find something that sticks out to me, I highlight it - there's no question about that. I whip out my handy dandy yellow or pink highlighter and get to business ;P . I also add little notes in the margin of my Bible when I feel it's necessary. I've found that little sticky note tabs are lifesavers, they're great book markers for when you want to find a favorite verse of yours or a passage quickly. It's easy to get to and one day you'll come across that note or book mark and be thankful for it. When it comes to studying on my own, I can't focus with other things going on. So unless I need to look up something Biblical related on my phone, I shut it off or put it away. I turn off the tv and go somewhere peaceful. Whether that be the outdoors for you, or in your room...find your peaceful place and continue to study there. No distractions, just you and the Lord. Ask Him for wisdom, ask for guidance, seek after Him and He'll give you just that. Take time to memorize and study God's Word. Cherish it. And love it. God's given us our manual for living life, we need to apply it and use it for our own lives. Keep Smiling, rosepetalsandfaith <3
1 Comment
Donna
6/4/2019 07:11:23 pm
Thank you for your ministry.
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Note From Katlyn:Welcome to the advice section. These blogposts are written from my heart to yours, and I pray they encourage you to walk closer to the Lord. Subscribe to my YouTube Channel!
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