Starting the Day with Jesus
Every morning, I begin my day with dedicated Jesus time. This practice of spending time with the Lord is non-negotiable for me. When I skip it, I feel a noticeable void. It’s a time to connect deeply with God, seeking to understand His word in its full context and meaning. This commitment to daily devotion not only enhances my relationship with God but also equips me with a profound understanding of the scriptures.
The Bible: A Weapon Against the Enemy, Not Each Other
Growing up, I witnessed the Bible being misused as a weapon against people, justifying actions like misogyny, slavery, and even rape. This misuse has driven many away from the church, creating a divide between people and their faith. The Bible should never be used to cut others down but should be embraced as God’s love letter to us, guiding us with love and compassion.
Rediscovering the Bible
My journey back to the word has been transformative. I now see the Bible not as a tool for condemnation but as a source of love and guidance. This perspective shift has reignited my passion for the scriptures, leading me to spend more time in the word, both for personal growth and to help faith-filled business owners build their businesses.
Diverse Perspectives on the Word
A recent sermon by Jackie Hill Perry highlighted the importance of learning the word from diverse perspectives. Our cultural, racial, and personal biases can filter how we interpret the scriptures. By stepping out of our comfort zones and learning from different viewpoints, we can better understand the heart of God.
A Structured Approach to Bible Study
Inspired by Priscilla Shirer’s five Ps of Bible study, I’ve developed a structured approach to my scripture reading:
- Start with Prayer: Begin by asking God to reveal His messages to you. Pray for open eyes and ears to understand what He wants you to see.
- Read and Journal: Work through one specific book at a time, starting with chapter one, verse one. For beginners, I recommend starting with the Book of John. As you read, highlight and take notes on passages that stand out to you.
- Study Commentary: Use resources like study Bibles and online commentaries (e.g., BibleRef.com, Verse by Verse Commentary) to gain deeper insights into the context and meaning of the scriptures.
- Apply the Word: Reflect on how you can apply the lessons from the scriptures to your own life. This step is crucial in making the word come alive in your daily actions.
- Wrap Up with Prayer: Always end your study with a prayer of gratitude, asking God to help you apply His teachings in your life.
Creating Time for the Word
Life can be busy, but creating time for the word is essential. Even if it’s just five minutes, spend that time with God. Integrate worship into your daily routine, whether it’s through music, prayer, or reflection. Let your children see you studying the Bible, as this sets a powerful example for the next generation.
The Impact of Daily Devotion
Regular time in the word makes it hard to ignore God’s presence throughout the day. Starting and ending your Bible study with prayer creates a continual conversation with God, allowing His guidance to permeate every aspect of your life.
Encouragement for Your Journey
As you embark on your journey into the word, I encourage you to start with prayer, choose a specific book, read and journal, seek deeper understanding through commentary, and always reflect on how to apply the teachings to your life. Your relationship with God will deepen, and you’ll find new revelations and insights that will transform your faith.
A Closing Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for this day and for the opportunity to share your word with others. I pray that you ignite a passion for your word in each of us, helping us to see, hear, and understand your messages. Give us the discernment to know what is right and the courage to apply your teachings in our lives. Thank you for your endless love and guidance.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
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