It’s a highly personal thing. I have talked a little about my personal study and even posted a picture of my quiet place on the welcome page. But for me, studying the Bible is more than having a particular time or place, study material or regimen. It’s an emptying out, asking Him to use my heart, mind, and body for His purposes—which is much easier said than done.
I bring every sin and struggle to the One Who saved me, to my God. After my contentions, I settle down and He meets me right where I am (Romans 7:18; Jeremiah 29:11-14; 33:2-3).
That being said, my personal study includes:
- Place – A designated place to study, which for a long time was a floor mat and folding chair in my closet (Matthew 6:6). Now, I have a comfortable chair, a bookcase, and good lighting.
- Time – I choose to study in the morning, although I have spent many second- and third-shift lunches studying my Bible in the back corner of a cafeteria, half distracted by a 30-minute time limit.
- Materials – I like having numerous versions of the Bible to help me gain a deeper understanding of what God is saying to me. I read historical and expository notes for context, use my Bible dictionary to look up words I don’t know, and take notes to reinforce my study.
- Resources – I bring my heart, mind, and body—a full surrender, as described above.
- Structure – I have a basic structure to my study that includes praise, gratitude and prayers. But I remain flexible, and I wait for His response. God does not want me in my head about Him. He wants me to be in fellowship with Him, to listen, and ultimately to obey Him.
A Place to Start
Study the reality of our struggle with sanctification (Romans 6:9-23), good works (Isaiah 64:4-6, 8; Romans 7:15-25), and God’s grace (Romans 8:1-39). Or start with any scripture, topic or person that you want to study. Take your time with it. Let God speak to your heart. What is He saying to you?