STUDY TO SHOW THYSELF APPROVED

My husband has helped me understand that not everyone loves reading, studying and overthinking as much as I do. I think if I could have been a professional student, I would’ve signed up. Perhaps that’s why I became an educator. Who knows? So I get it; not everyone is a book nerd. But each of us is called to study God’s Word, hide It in our heart, and allow it to become living and breathing in, for, and through us (2 Timothy 2:15, Psalm 119:11, Hebrews 4:12). 

Scripture

2 Timothy 2:15 – Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Lessons Learned

What does it mean to study? According to dictionary.com, the definition of study is 1) the devotion of time and attention to acquiring knowledge on a subject, especially using books, and 2) a detailed investigation and analysis of a subject or situation. 

And what does it mean to learn? According to dictionary.com, the definition of learning is the acquisition of knowledge or skills through experience, study, or by being taught.

What does the Bible say about studying and learning? 

  • Everything we need is already within us – I John 2:27 – But the anointing which you have received from Him abides in you, and you do not need anyone to teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will abide in Him.
  • We have a teacher Who is always with us – Psalm 32:8 – I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with my eye.
  • God’s Word guides us – Psalm 119:105 – Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
  • Because of our respect for God, we should love and seek wisdom and instruction – Proverbs 1:7 – The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, But fools despise wisdom and instruction.
  • We are called to learn and to do – Philippians 4:9 – The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.
  • We are called to learn then teach – Matthew 28:19-20 – Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.
  • We should welcome correction. It demonstrates God’s love for us – Proverbs 3:11-12 – My son, do not despise the chastening of the Lord, Nor detest His correction; For whom the Lord loves He corrects, Just as a father the son in whom he delights.
  • We need to be equipped with God’s Word so that we can witness to others. We can’t share what we don’t know – I Peter 3:15 – But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.

All the myths and lies you’ve been taught – you can’t learn, you’re not smart enough, you didn’t go to or finish school, you aren’t a pastor or teacher, learning isn’t for you – ERASE IT. LET IT GO. They are lies of the enemy!

Don’t let God’s Word intimidate you. The Bible was written for ALL of us, despite our educational background, titles, or positions. We should view the Word of God as David did. We should rejoice in the Bible because it is perfect, pure, more precious than gold, and sweeter than honey with the ability to convert our souls, make us wise, and enlighten our eyes (Psalm 19:7-11)! God’s voice, God’s Word, is all we need (John 10:27). His Word is sufficient for our everyday living and salvation (Deuteronomy 12:32). 

Once I got over “my fear” of the Bible and my belief that it was for someone else to interpret for me, I began to purposefully and intentionally study God’s Word. And that’s my prayer and hope for you as well, that your study will be purposeful, intentional, and life-changing.

Lessons Lived

My study, understanding and living of the Bible has been and continues to be a journey. Again, I understand how busy life can be, but, as believers, we are called to study God’s Word. As with meditation, I recommend setting aside dedicated time to do this. Some considerations include:

  • When to Study
    • Set aside 30-45 minutes each day.
    • Study the Bible for an hour or two each day on the weekend. This can be through reading or listening to God’s Word, using the audible feature found on many Bible apps.  
    • Intertwine your meditation and your study time. For example, meditate M-F and study God’s Word on the weekend. 
  • Tools to Use
    • Highlighters are my best friends. They are like neon flashing lights signaling you to pay attention to specific information.
    • Sticky Notes can help you organize your thoughts and ideas. You can color-code your ideas and then arrange the notes according to the themes or ideas. 
    • Tabbed Sticky Notes help redirect you back to areas you, your teacher, or pastor thought were important. 
    • OneNote is a digital notebook that helps organize your notes into sections and pages. You can highlight, draw, copy and paste from other resources, and you can share and collaborate with others. I’m using this right now as I type!
  • How to Study (This practice is modified from the SQ3R reading comprehension method.) 
    • Read – Read the whole passage, text, chapter, or series of texts. Read the passages again and then begin taking notes, organizing the information and recording questions that emerge.
    • Reflect – Respond to questions such as:
      • What is consistent with your beliefs? 
      • What did you learn that’s new? 
      • What do you still have questions about that need follow-up? 
      • What do you disagree with? 
      • How can you apply what you’ve learned to your life?
    • Record – Record your notes and reflections. 
    • Review – Summarize the main points in your own words. Make it personal. 

The following are varying strategies that have served helpful to me, and I hope they will support you along your journey of knowing God and understanding the Bible.

Whatever you do, make sure you set a study date and commit to know and grow in God’s Word.

Reflections

  • How does 2 Timothy 2:15 speak to you? 
  • How would you characterize your study of God’s Word heretofore?
  • What strategies could you implement to improve your study of and meditation upon God’s Word? 
  • What will you commit to today to know and live God’s better?
  • What are your personal LIFE Lessons?
    • Liberation: What new insights have you gained that have freed you from past thoughts or practices?
      • Inspiration: In what ways have you been spiritually, emotionally or mentally motivated to live for Christ?
      • Fortification: What additional scriptural texts, passages or stories can reinforce and strengthen you against the attacks of the enemy?
      • Edification: How might you share your story to edify others and bring glory to God?

Playlist

As you process, digest, and apply what’s been shared, here is a song from my playlist that reminds me of Who God Is.  Listen and allow the music to infiltrate your soul. Read the lyrics and let the words encourage you. And I pray that you’ll be blessed as I was. 

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, May Your Word be a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path (Psalm 119:105). In Your most holy name Jesus, I pray, Amen.

 

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