Learned Techniques II
Today we continue our look in the fundamentals of studying God’s word. Last week we reviewed how we need to recognize our need for prayer before we study. We need to ask for Him to teach us. It is why it is stated in Proverbs 32:8 “I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go; I will counsel you with My eye upon you.” Our Heavenly Father cares for us and wishes that we seek Him. When we do our Bible study and pray asking for assistance, we are recognizing and practicing the importance of the role He has placed us in with Him in this unique relationship.
Now even though we are to seek the Lord and ask Him for His help, this does not mean He is not already aware of what we need. Matthew 6:7-8 “And when you are praying, do not use meaningless repetition as the Gentiles do, for they suppose that they will be heard for their many words. 8 “So do not be like them; for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.” For the believer our relationship with God is very real, this means when we study His word we can go confidently to Him and ask for His teaching. After asking we can go to the scripture and start to study.
Now this next part is important for us to recognize. When we read the very words of God, we should be focused. This means taking the distractions out of our path. We need to study God’s Word and recognize that there is information that is for us. Proverbs 25:2 “It is the glory of God to conceal a matter, But the glory of kings is to search out a matter.” How can we find what is hidden if we are not totally focused. Now there will be times that we are having to juggle multiple things from children, work, and life; but when at all possible we need to be eager to keep our attention solely on the Lord’s scripture. We are currently the most rewarded age in all of human history. We have the Bible in its completeness with the Holy Spirit to guide us. This is why Peter states to the Christian’s dispersed throughout Asia and Europe, 1 Peter 1:10-12 “As to this salvation, the prophets who prophesied of the grace that would come to you made careful searches and inquiries, 11 seeking to know what person or time the Spirit of Christ within them was indicating as He predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories to follow. 12 It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves, but you, in these things which now have been announced to you through those who preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven--things into which angels long to look.” With such a host of saints wanting what we have, we should recognize and be appreciative. Thus we need to be focused when we study God’s scripture. Next week we will close our series and see what God provides us as we study His scripture. But until next week remember to pray and ask for God to help you understand His word, and take the time to take His scripture serious and be focused in His word and where He might lead you.
Hold until relieved, our Blessed Hope is coming,
JL