The Bible-Periodt
Beloved, understanding the Bible is a lifelong journey filled with revelations and encounters with God. By approaching it with an open heart, studying with the help of resources, and seeking God's guidance through prayer, the Scriptures will come alive with wisdom, truth, and life-changing revelations. As we delve into God's Word, let us remember that its teachings hold the power to transform lives, inspire hope, and draw us closer to the heart of our Creator. The Bible is more than just a book; it is a timeless and sacred collection of writings that holds profound wisdom, historical accounts, and divine revelations. For many, delving into the Bible can be a daunting task, but it is a journey that rewards seekers with spiritual insights, comfort, and a deeper connection with God. In this blog, we embark on a voyage of understanding the Bible and offer practical tips on how to read it effectively. One page at a time and one day at a time. You can’t gulp it down, but rather just in sips are we able to contain so much of what it offers. Revelation is from the Lord and moves past our understanding. Let’s take it in steps and also make room for Him and His truth.
Approach with an Open Heart:
Before opening the Bible, it is essential to approach it with an open heart and a willingness to listen to God's voice. Allow the Holy Spirit to guide you as you read, meditate, and seek understanding. Recognize that the Bible is not merely a historical document but a living Word that speaks to each generation and individual personally.
Start with the Basics:
If you are new to reading the Bible, begin with the foundational books like the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John), which offer insight into the life, teachings, and ministry of Yeshua Explore the Psalms for prayers and reflections, and dive into Proverbs for wisdom and practical life lessons. This is what new believers are told. I would say read the Tanakh (Torah, Writings, and Prophets). We do this because we have to be able to understand the letters and accounts that were written. When Yeshua spoke He was speaking scriptures that were found in what is called, “The Old Testament. We have to remember that when we read about the acts of the Holy Spirit, the Acts of Yeshua and teachings, and the lives of all of those we read about were still reading the Torah and the Writings, and the Prophets. When Miriam gave birth to Yeshua, she had to give the poor persons offering and she had to stay from the temple according to that which was written in Deuteronomy. Yeshua spoke to the rich young ruler about holding up the 10 commandments. The 10 commandments are the basics. Yeshua did not come to do away with it. Again, approach with an open heart and hear what the Spirit of the Lord is saying.
Study Tools and Resources:
To gain a deeper understanding of the Bible, utilize study tools and resources. Invest in a study Bible with explanatory notes and cross-references. Explore concordances, commentaries, and online resources that provide historical context, linguistic insights, and theological perspectives.
Engage in Contextual Reading:
Understanding the context of a passage is vital to grasp its meaning accurately. Consider the historical, cultural, and literary context of the text. Ask questions such as: Who was the author? Who were the intended readers? What was happening at that time?
Pray for Revelation:
In prayer, ask God to reveal His truth and wisdom as you read the Scriptures. Praying before and during your reading helps you connect with God and invites Him to illuminate the meaning of the text to you. Allow the words of the Bible to sink into your heart through meditation and reflection. Take time to ponder the verses, asking God to apply His Word to your life. Journal your thoughts and insights, noting how the Scriptures speak to your specific circumstances.
We are all still learning. There are many different beliefs. With that said, it is important to have the right relationship with Yeshua and the right relationship with His word.
Amein.
