How to develop the habit of studying the Word
One of the biggest challenges of most believers, both young and old alike, is how to go about studying the Word. Some say, "I don't have the time" and others, " I don't even know where to start from". I understand, that's why I will be sharing with you in this article, my experience about how I developed not only an appetite for the Word but also an understanding.
The truth is this, a lack of clear understanding of the role of the Word of God in a believer's life is the root cause of not studying the Word. A clear understanding will increase your motivation.
This is how I have been going about it ;
1. I considered the Word as the manual for my life: When you get a new gadget that has never existed before, you would go to either of these two places to understand how to use it. First the manufacturer, or the manufacturer's manual. You have never existed before! Your life is different and so is your purpose and destiny on this earth. The only way for you to ideally go about this life you have without misusing it is to consult the Word which is your manual for life. And fortunately for us, the manufacturer and His manual are one( John 1:1).
The moment I got this truth, I knew I had to learn to study the Word. I couldn't afford to make unnecessary mistakes in my life, I needed to know how to handle situations in my life, I needed to know my purpose, I didn't want to leave an empty life, and I needed to know how to build my future on the right foundation, I needed to learn to be intimate with God, I needed to learn to handle relationships and emotions…. And the Word of God was what I needed, it Is still what I need and you need it too.
2.I intentionally made time for studying the Word: it is never possible to mistakenly develop a habit of studying the Word. You have to intentionally bring out time for it. You could tie it to a habit you already have. For example, if you already have a habit of going through Whatsapp or Facebook when you wake up in the morning, the moment you catch yourself on that social media platform, turn it off and study. You could set an alarm. There's no perfect time for studying because you can make it perfect for yourself. If you are a night person, use about 15-30min(for a start) of your night. Or if you are a day person, use your day. For me, I use my mornings, cause I am mostly active at that time. The idea is to make it part of your day's schedule.
3. I tied the Word of God to everything about my life: since the Word of God is the manual for my life, then everything I needed to know about my life, encounters, purpose, and everything about everything' had to be in the word.
As a student, when I needed to be reminded how to stand out, I went to the Word
In my relationships, when I needed to learn or know how to handle a person ( friend, family, leaders, followers, enemies, etc) I went to the Word.
When I was low on self-confidence and I needed a perfect boost, I went to the Word
When I needed to rise in my finances, I went to the Word to know-how
When I needed to understand God more, I went to the Word.
When I am in a dilemma and on the verge of making decisions, I go to the Word to find out what God says about it.
When I needed strength in weakness, I went to the Word.
When I felt sick in my body, I went to the Word…
I connected everything about me to The Word of God.
And till today I see the Word as the solution to everything and wisdom for everything. That led me to the next step.
4. I began to search the scriptures; I searched the scriptures to know God's take on every situation, whether good or bad. I use my phone browser to search bible verses/passages on various topics and areas. You already have the resources at hand, you only have to use them.
I took note of what I found and I meditated on them till they became alive in me: After searching the scriptures and finding answers, it is very important to take a note of what you found. Write it down ( you can get a notepad specifically for this) and think about it and how it applies to your life. This is not something you do in a hurry, that is why I stated earlier that you pick the best time for you. Reflect on what you have found out in the Word. Even after studying, be conscious of what you studied throughout the rest of the day. You will be amazed at how the Word of God will come alive in you.
5. I used daily devotional: One beautiful thing a good devotional will do for you is to keep you studying. Certainly, there will be days when you don't want to search the scriptures specifically for anything. With your devotional, you already have a topic assigned for each day. And this will keep you abreast, aware, and enlightened in the Word.
6. I relied completely on God to keep me going and give me more understanding: You can't separate God and His Word. The Word itself was inspired by God. So as you study, you also need to pray to him to give you a clear understanding of what you are studying and also to give you the strength to carry on. He always shows up when we relate intimately with Him in prayer.
There certainly were times when I missed my schedule, times when I was tired and all, and times when I didn't feel like studying…. But I didn't give up on those times. Remember,' Rome is not built in a day. So consistency is key, if you couldn't get it right today, go again tomorrow, You will win.
I know there are various other ways to study the Word, but this is my story… It can help you grow!
Do well to leave a question if you have any, or a comment if you were blessed.
You are so loved 💖
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