Day by Day

A few weeks ago my Life Group started to study the book of Philippians. I told the group I was excited to begin a more traditional Bible study for a change. So as I started to read through each chapter, I noticed that I had handwritten notes in the margins and verses highlighted. Before I knew it, I was reading those comments and trying to remember why I took the time to draw attention to certain passages. Then I remembered that I was given the Bible I was using by a pastor at the church where I was challenged to not just read the Bible but study what I was reading. He explained to me that you only get out of it what you put into it. He said, “Don’t just pull it out on Sunday for worship services.” He encouraged me to do more. So I joined a men’s Bible study and read my Bible every day. The more I read it, the more I wanted to learn and know. I came with all kinds of questions every week. I also started taking notes on Sunday morning during the service so I could use them to help me get through the week. It was this ownership and desire to understand what the Bible was saying that helped give me the confidence I needed to know who Jesus was and all he was doing in my life.

I wish I could tell you that I continued this discipline and never stopped, but sadly I got out of the habit of doing all of those great things. With that being said, I have recently changed how and when I do my devotionals and I have been challenged to go deeper in my study of the Word on my own throughout the week. It has been an amazing experience. I feel closer to God than I have in years. I challenge you to do the same. I know that some of you may have tried and failed or maybe you have Bible studies on your shelf that you started and never finished. Well today is the day to get back at it. I read research a few years ago that said it takes thirty days to kick a habit and thirty days to start one. The key is starting, right? Find a Christian friend that will help you to be accountable during this new endeavor and get started. I also found a good article called Spiritual Disciplines, Part 3: Bible Reading: Some Practical Suggestions that gives some great advice for those struggling to read and study their bible on a regular basis. I hope it helps.