As disciples, we know that we should study the Word. We also realize that in these modern times most of us have no valid excuse for not doing so. This is especially true when we consider the abundance of free tools and resources available online. Yet, somehow, Bible study (along with prayer) is one thing that we often neglect.
We tend to think of it as a necessary but tedious habit. Perhaps we need to reconsider and recognize that Bible study is a rich and rewarding experience, not a tedious chore!
6 Reasons for why we should study the Bible
1. It is God’s Word to us
The Scriptures are inspired writings—letters from God written to His people. If that’s not enough motivation to want to read and study His Word, then we should ask the Lord to help us rekindle our first love for Him!
2. Because we CAN read and study it
We often take the availability of Scripture for granted. But according to Wycliffe Bible Translators, however, 250 million people around the world, still need the Bible in their own language. Millions more do not possess a Bible of their own. We have a precious treasure in our hands. Let’s not neglect it!
3. It helps us know the Lord and His message
We can’t fully know God or fully grasp His message without studying it. However, the majority of Christians don’t even read their Bible on a regular basis.
The best way to overcome this negative habit is to stop dieting!! When we’re on a low-calorie diet, our stomachs shrink and our appetites decrease. However, the more food we eat, the more we want. It’s the same with spiritual food! Keep your spiritual appetite healthy by feeding it!!
4. We can find wisdom and guidance
We live in a confusing world where the distinction between right and wrong is increasingly blurred. That’s where God’s Word comes in. It’s alive and active, sharper than a two-edged sword. When we study it, God’s Word reveals the mind of Christ, whose wisdom can help us understand difficult issues.
For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12
5. It keeps our hearts focused
The days of this world are numbered. The world’s offers of success, wealth, fame, and entertainment are fading away even as they’re offered. These things often thrill or delight us, but they cannot last.
The Bible helps us distinguish between the eternal Kingdom of Christ and the temporal things of this world. Studying it helps us keep our minds and hearts focused on eternal things. It fortifies our faith and draws us closer to Christ.
6. It helps us become true and earnest disciples
True discipleship means becoming more like our Lord and Savior. This requires knowing Him and His Word. After all, the Bible is His story. From start to finish, He is present on every page.
Such is the kind of life that is considered successful in the eyes of the Lord. As Judy Allen writes in her article, Unlocking the Bible: “If we follow Jesus well, we will have lived a successful life. We may never accomplish much by the world’s standards, but we will bring joy and glory to our Father!”
The Bible is fascinating!
Have you ever thought that Bible study was boring and tedious? The best way to overcome this misconception is to just jump in and start studying!
Good books for beginners include the Gospel of John, which is fast-paced and offers a great overview of the life of Jesus. James is good because it is short (only 5 chapters) and because, it offers practical everyday wisdom. Both books are highly approachable and focus directly on core teachings without requiring in-depth knowledge of the historical context.
Bible study is our roadmap for knowing Christ and following in His footsteps. Without it we cannot find the way.
Start your own amazing journey of learning to delight in God’s Word! I’m sure you’ll find that the Bible is anything but boring!
The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes.
Psalm 19:7-8
📷 Image credits: Man with Bible | Bible on bench.
10 replies on “6 Motivating Reasons to Study the Bible”
Thanks for your post Sheila. You’ve made some good points. Keep up the good work.
Thank you, Pete. I’m thankful the post encouraged you!
The people at Wycliffe are doing exciting work to get translations into the hands of people still waiting for it. Great point.
Yes Erin, Wycliffe is doing wonderful work and need our prayers! And that should also spur us on to read our Bible – because we are soooo blessed to have it in our language!!
Amen, Sheila! For every student of the Bible there comes the day when study ceases to be a discipline and becomes a sincere pleasure. What a treasure trove it is of wisdom, understanding, guidance, and encouragement!
That is so true Nancy! The more we get into it, the deeper we want to dig into that treasure trove!!
Amen. It is our spiritual food and without it we can become malnourished or even starve. Spending time in God’s Word is not optional, unless one enjoys living perilously. Great post!
Yes Bruce, it is indeed perilous. Instead of growing we start going backwards. But real disciples want to grow and go forward!!
Amen. Wonderful message. Yes, without His Word, we are lost.
Thanks Mimi! We are truly lost without his Word, and really quite unable to navigate this confusing, mixed-up world!