In my walk with God, I have often come up with firm decisions to engage in systematic Bible Study. To carry forward my plans, I usually launch out to secure a ‘Bible Study Kit’, complete with reading plans, journal, sticky notes and other fashionable Bible Study tools. Christian stores today have a good supply of Bible study guides, Bible reading plans, journals, study Bibles, daily devotions, Bible dictionaries and a whole lot of exciting aids. All these are, essential and important to assist in thorough Bible investigation. However I have found that there is something beyond this ever expanding list of Bible Study material that is absolutely essential for effective Bible Study.

The most essential aspects of Bible Study don’t pinch your purse or steal away space but helps access deeper truths from God’s Word. Explore some of these essentials for Bible study with me.

Discipline
Engaging in serious Bible study calls for discipline. Modern Christians have come to believe that being set free from the law and its demands means a careless lifestyle with no constraints. This is far from true. The cross of Christ does deliver us from the old system of being subject to law but it also lays down a new order in holiness. To live by this new pattern, meditating on God’s word is mandatory. Discipline in setting aside a time and space is the first essential for detailed Bible Study.

Commitment
Along with discipline comes the commitment to keep up with Bible Study no matter what. Whether by attending Bible classes, discussions or personal investigation, digging deep into God’s word requires a good deal of commitment.

Listen
Most of us are accustomed to talking and not to listening. However, studying the Bible simply means letting the Holy Spirit instruct and teach truths you have never known before. That means your part in the entire process is to listen and not talk. For some, listening is a challenge. But unless you tune yourself to wait patiently and silently at His feet, hours of Bible study may prove futile. To get the most out of Bible study, let your response be “Speak Lord for your servant listens.”

Obey
Bible study and obedience go hand in hand. It is impossible to do one and ignore the other. We don’t study the Bible to admire ancient writings and culture or to critically appraise the lives of those belonging to the past. The purpose of Bible study is to decipher God’s word for you. This word has the power to transform, only if you choose to obey.

Share
The precious nuggets you unravel from God’s word need to be shared with others. Join a ministry that suits your God given abilities and make sure you always share God’s truth with those in need.