Clean up your bible reading with some soap.

Photo by Alex Shute on Unsplash

Do you take the time to study the bible?

There is a danger that we can become so familiar with our bibles that regular reading is an intention that stays in our mental to do list, or we never go beyond reading verses here and there.

Yes, there are certainly seasons we can go through when it comes to engaging with the word, but it is important that that believer makes it a habit of going deeper into scripture. And while as tempting as it is to believe that studying the bible is too hard or that it is only for those more theologically mature, there is an abundance of simple study methods available to help get us started.

All it takes is a little soap.

One of the most basic, but effective study methods I have come across is the S.O.A.P study, and one that I really want to encourage you to use. It is helpful with both devotional and study time.

S: Scripture. As you read, write out the verse or passage that stands out.

O: Observation. Note down what is the overall message of the verse. Are there any warnings, principles or commands?

A: Application. Are there any areas in your life that do not align with the scripture? How should you apply this truth or command to your life?

P: Prayer. Turn these findings into a prayer and spend time thinking about what needs to change. Share with someone else so they can pray for you or pray for others who may be needing your prayer for the same thing. Give thanks that God has revealed these things to you.

So, there you have it, an easy start to your studying the bible journey. Whether you are just starting out or it’s been a while since you intentionally studied the word.

Still on the fence?

If you are a follower of Christ and still undecided or unsure about whether you should make time to study the bible, I hope you will change your mind. In the meantime, I want to share a verse that highlights why the word deserves our time and attention.

2 timothy 3:16-17 – All scripture Is God-breathed and is valuable for teaching the truth, convicting of sin, correcting faults and training in right living, thus anyone who belongs to God may be fully equipped for every good work.

• All scripture is from God. He has spoken through his word and as we take time to engage with it, he continues to speak to us and reveal himself.
• It teaches the truth and convicts of sin. Corrects faults and tells us how to live. If we are to be mature citizens of the Kingdom of God, we need to be exposed regularly to God’s word to us.
• The instruction we receive will also fully equip us for every good work. God is telling us that we will be provided with everything we need for the work we are to do.

As you can see, going deeper into Gods word is not just because it’s the right thing to do as followers of Jesus, but doing so also trains us for godliness, which we need if we want to take our faith more seriously.

Father God, thank you that your word is alive, active and valuable for teaching us. Help us to see that the study of your word is an important part of us becoming more Christlike and that we would use the resources available to us to know you better. In Jesus name, Amen