10 Tips for Better Bible Study
"Half our fears arise from neglect of the Bible." Charles H. Spurgeon
www.trustworthyword.com/how-to-study-the-bible
1. Pick a Plan
Ever hear the expression, “a goal without a plan is just a wish”? If you want to draw closer to the Lord through the Bible you’ve got to make a plan that is “SMART” or 1)Specific, 2)Measurable, 3)Achievable, 4)Realistic, and 5)Timely
2. Be Realistic, Keep It Simple
Consider your past and present situations as you evaluate your goals for the future!
3. Set a Time
Are you a morning person or an evening person? Do you need to wake up earlier or block off a particular time of day a little better?
4. Pick, Prepare, & Protect a Place
Where is a spot (chair, room, car) where you avoid distractions while being focused on reading or hearing God’s Word?
5. Make Reminders
What will help you to remember daily? Leaving your Bible or devotional out in a particular spot? Sticky note? Dry eraser on the mirror or fridge? Phone app notification? Repeating calendar event?
6. Keep Track of Your Progress
Use a bookmark, check off a reading plan, use a chart to see what you’ve accomplished!
7. Have a Catch-Up Plan, Readjust If Necessary
Block off time (evening, weekend, a day per month) to pick up when you inevitably miss a reading or day. Find yourself getting too far behind, adjust your goals to be more realistic and achievable or stretch out your goal’s end date.
8. Create Accountability
Aim for the same goal with a child, spouse, friend, or family member. Share your goal and progress or setbacks online or with others for encouragement. Confess your failures or struggles to receive wisdom or prayer.
9. Use Tools for the Journey
Whether it is highlighters, gel pens, or a commentary, concordance, atlas, or app - find practical resources that make your journey more enjoyable and profitable.
10. Celebrate Small Wins Along the Way
Make celebratory steps and incentives as you keep up for a month, finish a book, or complete your next chapter. Make an end of the year prize that you look forward to using a small reward!
“The vigor of our spiritual life will be in exact proportion to the place held by the Bible in our life and thoughts.” George Mueller