My transformed life began when I read the bible. However, I cannot stop there. If I read God’s word like my school textbooks, I’ll be missing out. I heard this statement many years ago:
“The Bible is NOT Simply for Information, but for Transformation”
I’ve met people who read the bible, yet remained unchanged. I also know people who did more than just read the bible. It made an observable difference in their lives.
The Richness of Psalm 23
Psalm 23 is one of my most favorite Psalms. The first time I read it, I felt very blessed. I related to the fears and frailty of a sheep. It taught me about a loving God who is like a caring shepherd.
The more I dug into the bible verses, the deeper my understanding became. It brought my faith to the next level. I heard preachers share their insights; I read a book written from a shepherd’s perspective; I listened to my friends’ thoughts too.
Furthermore, I taught on this passage. And I experienced the promises found there. I learned so much more than if I just read this.
The 6 “I Musts”
The bible has precious principles within the stories found in it. It’s my responsibility to dig into it and find the treasures in the Word of God.
MORE THAN just reading the bible, these are the 6 “I Musts:”
1. I must UNDERSTAND it
Sometimes, I read and reread a certain portion of scripture so I can comprehend what’s being said. I slow down my reading pace to help me grasp it more.
I also do some research, so I know the context around the passage. I like getting information at www.gotQuestions.org. I also ask God to speak to me.
2. I must MEDITATE on it
The scripture won’t be life-changing if I simply read to find out its contents. It should make me know the Author more. It should make me think what needs to be applied in my life.
I ask 3 Guide Questions whenever I read a bible passage. Answering these questions help me meditate more.
What does it teach me on WHO GOD IS?
What does it teach me to BE?
What does it teach me to DO?
3. I must BELIEVE it
I must decide whether or not I believe the Author of what I’m reading. There is no middle ground. It’s only when I believe that my faith will grow.
Sometimes, what I read defies my logic or my way of making decisions. But when I believe the scriptures, it later on always proves itself right.
Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds me:
8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. 9 “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”
4. I must OBEY it
I cannot choose which scripture to obey, or to ignore. All of them are divinely inspired. Thus, it is ALWAYS right in every situation. A person can have all the bible knowledge. But if it’s not followed, it won’t change anything.
A great truth is found in James 1:22…
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
5. I must SHARE it
When I receive something of great value, I like to share it with others. They can be blessed as well. Such is the same when I receive precious insights from God’s word.
Sharing bible verses to others is a great way to encourage them. I oftentimes would hear someone say, “Thanks for the very timely word.”
6. I must MEMORIZE it
Temptations can happen any time, any way, and at any place. If I don’t guard myself with God’s word, I’ll easily be defeated. Memorizing God’s promises and truth help me face the battle.
I recall a truth, and the deception of the enemy is exposed. Overcoming temptations happen more regularly.
The scripture is so powerful that it has changed people for thousands of years. I must not be lazy in just reading it. I have to go deeper than that. But the investment of time I put is worth it. It has the power to change the rest of anyone’s life.
I like to follow the example of Ezra in Ezra 7:10…
For Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the Lord, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel.
Posted on: October 17, 2014
Photo: © Depositphotos.com/mikdam
Discussion Question:
What do you hope to do more than just reading the bible? Share your inputs below.