 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Article Archive |
2008
DAILY DEVOTIONALS READINGS
by Jim Morris
One of the secrets of effective Bible study is to have a plan for daily reading. Some map out a reading program that divides the scriptures into bite sized pieces they can read within 10-15 minutes. Others select certain books of the Bible to focus on more intently. What is necessary, though, is actually reading and meditating on the text each day.
In graduate school, one of my professors suggested the following method to grow in wisdom:
First, SET ASIDE TIME early in the morning before you begin your day to read the chapter of Proverbs that corresponds to the calendar day. For example, I am writing this article for Wednesday, December 17, so I read the 17th Proverb (see the example at the end of this article).
Second, READ the passage slowly as if it were a letter addressed directly from God to you. Think about what He says to you from His word. Try to hold on to those ideas throughout the day. In time you will be able to easily recollect what you have meditated upon.
Third, PRAY for God’s help in applying His word. God wrote the Bible so that we could draw near to Him. He wrote it to be understood (Ephesians 5:16-17).
Fourth, PRACTICE the ideas you read as soon as an opportunity arrives. Don’t dismiss His ideas. Here is a key to all Bible study: The more you put into practice what you read from God’s word, the more you will be transformed by it (Romans 12:2).
Finally, REVIEW how well you did at the end of each day before you go to bed. Thank God for the times that you summoned up enough courage to live out God’s will. Ask Him for forgiveness for the times you failed. “Come near to God and He will come near to you” (James 4:8).
“He who covers over an offense promotes love,
but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.”“A rebuke impresses a man of discernment
more than a hundred lashes a fool.”
“An evil man is bent only on rebellion;
a merciless official will be sent against him.“If a man pays back evil for good,
evil will never leave his house.”“Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam;
so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.
“Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent—
the LORD detests them both.”“A man of knowledge uses words with restraint,
and a man of understanding is even-tempered.”
Proverbs 17:9-15, 27
12-17-08
# 51
