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Being Confident Of This

Grace for the work-in-progress woman

5 Reasons to Study the Bible Chronologically

February 18, 2019 by jstults 7 Comments

I sat across the table from my friend and nodded along as if I understood what she was talking about. In our conversation, she referenced a biblical character and that character’s unique story.

I knew who she meant. I was familiar with the name. However, I wasn’t as familiar with the story as I let on. I was too ashamed of my lack of knowledge to tell her that I didn’t know the full story…

Even after several decades of studying God’s Word (some years more faithfully than others), I still don’t know all there is to know about the Bible!

My guess is you don’t know all there is to know, either, friends.

In fact, the research paints an increasingly dire portrait of how “biblically illiterate” our nation has become, even those who claim Christ and who claim to value His Word!

Fewer than half of all adults can name the four gospels. Many Christians cannot identify more than two or three of the disciples. According to data from the Barna Research Group, 60 percent of Americans can’t name even five of the Ten Commandments. “No wonder people break the Ten Commandments all the time. They don’t know what they are,” said George Barna, president of the firm. The bottom line? “Increasingly, America is biblically illiterate.” (from an article by Al Mohler, President of The Southern Baptists Theological Seminary)

This is my heart for discipleship, friends – I want to join in the work of laying that firm foundation in the lives of women and children around me and here at Being Confident of This.

I firmly believe one of the main culprits of insecure faith and lukewarm living is a lack of understanding.

The best solution? Study the Bible chronologically!

Through our church-planting journey, we’ve witnessed first-hand the destruction that partial-knowledge and half-truths cause when it comes to the Bible.

We’ve seen women and men make poor choices in their own strength because they didn’t yet fully understand the concept of a helpless sinner, nor a Father God who places boundaries lovingly and for our benefit.

We’ve talked with women and men who faithfully attended church for decades and counted themselves as part of God’s family… well… hopefully, they said.

We’ve encountered our fair share of mis-conceptions and outright deceptions, and all of this has taken place in small-town, Midwest America – not all that far from the Bible belt itself!

Friends, as a nation we’ve become Christian slackers, too willing to accept what others claim to be true about God’s Word instead of searching the Scriptures for ourselves, and it shows.

It shows in broken marriages and families, in attempted suicides and other self-harming behaviors.

It shows in “church kids” who rebel dramatically when they reach adulthood (or even sooner). It shows in current controversies like abortion, gender confusion, race issues, and a general culture of sexual immorality that is prevalent even within the church.

With that in mind, we should be thinking about and discussing with our spouses, our families, our churches, how to best counteract this trend.

We’ve already discussed the many benefits of studying God’s Word, but HOW should we study the Word?

*This post contains affiliate links. For more information on the use of affiliate links by Being Confident of This, please visit the About page. Thank you for supporting the ministry of this site!

5 Reasons to Study the Bible Chronologically

The best way to study God’s Word is to begin at the very beginning.

It makes sense, right? Creation to Christ teaching, also called chronological teaching, lays a foundation of understanding that is clearly absent in the modern church.

Not that other methods of study aren’t relevant or even necessary, but if you’ve never studied the Bible chronologically, as a whole, then you’re missing out!

 

Here are 5 Reasons why you need to study the Word chronologically:

  1. Study the Bible chronologically to build a firm foundation.

Building a firm foundation is kind of a no-brainer when you think about it.

You can’t teach a student Algebra overnight, right?! Even simpler concepts like multiplication require a foundation of understanding addition, which requires a foundation of understanding how numbers work on a number line, which requires understanding that numbers are symbolic of actual objects, and so forth.

A deep and confident understanding of God’s Word begins with similar building blocks that make up a foundation. There are key concepts in the Bible we simply must understand in order to grow in our faith!

Unfortunately, many modern Christians remain immature – spiritual babes, either for lack of sound biblical teaching or for lack of personal Bible study. What a shame that we take for granted the living and active Word of God (and yes, I find myself guilty on this count, too).

Not only does lacking a firm foundation hinder us in our Christian growth, it can also leave us easy targets for the Enemy’s snares! For example, if we don’t fully understand the gospel and our position in Christ, then we are likely to struggle in our Christian walk. Instead of living in victory (despite hardships), we’ll live in doubt.

When Christ-followers try to wrap their heads around difficult topics like predestination or the problem of suffering without first building on this firm foundation, then they are like the foolish man who built his house on the sand (Matthew 7:24-27).

Hosea 4:5-6 demonstrates how a lack of knowledge leads to destruction!

You stumble day and night,
and the prophets stumble with you.
So I will destroy your mother—
my people are destroyed from lack of knowledge.
“Because you have rejected knowledge,
I also reject you as my priests;
because you have ignored the law of your God,
I also will ignore your children.” (NIV)

Let’s not be women who are easily shaken or destroyed. Instead, let’s be like the wise man who built upon the rock (Matthew 7:24-27).

If you want to stand firm in your faith, you first need a foundation to stand on!

Do you know why it's so important to study the Bible chronologically? If you want to know more about the Bible... #Biblestudy #tips #christianwomen #christiangrowth Being Confident of This | Bible study methods | chronological teaching | study Bible as a whole | how to have strong faith | firm foundation

2. Study the Bible chronologically to follow God’s timeline.

Any time you study history or a story, it makes sense to travel from beginning to end. If we jump in in the middle of the story, we’re likely to miss important information. We may even become confused about the point or the purpose of the story.

Students of history, literature, science, music, art, and so forth understand that information is more meaningful when it’s given correct context.

Therefore, when we approach the Bible, we should study it in the same manner. Jesus’ death and resurrection is much more meaningful when we take the time to understand the background leading up to it – starting at the very beginning of time.

3. Study the Bible chronologically to grasp key Gospel concepts.

To understand and accept the truth of the Gospel, we must first fully understand our sin problem. While many acknowledge the problem of sin in our world, many also still cling to wrong thinking in regard to the solution.

You cannot be saved if you don’t first understand your need for a Savior.

In addition, without understanding the Old Testament sacrificial system, we cannot fully understand the death of Jesus – which is the center of our entire faith!

Do you know what Jesus really meant when he uttered, “It is finished!” shortly before his death on the cross? In fact, there are three separate, significant truths attached to that three-word phrase. None of which I knew until I studied the Bible chronologically.

Without understanding key concepts (like those above) that relate to the Gospel, we run the risk of being deceived into accepting false teaching.

Take for example, the Galatian church. In Galatians 5, we read that an outsider came and convinced the Galatian believers that they needed to be circumcised in order to be saved. Paul repsonded:

You were running a good race. Who cut in on you to keep you from obeying the truth? That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you. Galatians 5:7-8 (NIV)

In this age of information and mis-information, believers who aren’t fully grounded in the Word are easy prey for wolves in sheep’s clothing!

4. Study the Bible chronologically to understand the Big Picture.

Do you know why Abel’s sacrifice was described as “better than” Cain’s? Why did the Ark only have one door? Did God really ask Abraham to sacrifice Isaac when He had explicitly forbidden His people from following this pagan ritual?

Did God really need to send ten plagues on Egypt instead of just freeing His people the first time? Why did God give ten commandments if He knew the Israelites wouldn’t be able to keep them? Why was Jesus born to a virgin? What’s significant about Jesus dying during Passover?

All too often, we learn Bible stories in isolation from one another rather than as pieces of a larger puzzle.

Many Christ-followers are familiar with the stories of Cain and Abel, Abraham and Isaac, the 10 Commandments, Jesus’ birth, and so forth (although current research shows this ability to be dwindling). However, not all believers understand the connections between these events and how they all point us to Christ!

(Below is my favorite tool for understanding the Big Picture!)

5. Study the Bible chronologically to follow the example of Jesus.

Remember that question from the 90s – WWJD? (What would Jesus do?)

If we apply that question to discipleship, we clearly see that Jesus often went back to early scripture to help others understand that He really was the Messiah!

Such is the case when He met up with the men traveling the Road to Emmaus. They were discussing recent events in Jerusalem (the crucifixion and resurrection) and trying to make sense of them. Instead of starting with His own identity, Jesus started by laying a foundation for the big picture.

He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself. Luke 24:25-27 (NIV)

We see this same method of study and teaching used by the apostles throughout the book of Acts, and today it’s used successfully by overseas mission organizations, as well.

In my experience, studying the Bible chronologically is the most effective method of both evangelism and Christian growth.

We don’t have time to waste.

Friends, as I type these words, I sense some urgency.

We do not know how much time we have left on this Earth. We need to be secure in our faith. We also need to lead others to be saved and secure in their faith, as well.

“The message we are given in the Bible to take to the world is not a list of doctrines or topical points about God. What we declare is that which actually happened in time and space. It is read. It is factual. It is history. When we bypass or ignore the historical content of the Scriptures in which God has revealed Himself and divorce the words of God from their historical context, we are overlooking God’s basic form of revelation.” (Firm Foundations: Creation to Christ Children’s Edition pg. 34)

There are many misconceptions out there about who God is and what His plans for mankind are.

Obviously, if we fail to correctly understand God’s character or who we are as His followers, then we fail to experience the biblical confidence befitting a daughter of the King!

Do you need a firm foundation, friends?

Jen

*Sources for the above information include, the TERM Seminar put on by Goodseed, Intl. and Firm Foundations: Creation to Christ as mentioned above.

For further reading: How to Study the Bible: 4 Exceptional Resources

If you’re not a Facebook fan or email subscriber, you may have missed this announcement. But I still have a few spots left in our first ever online Bible study – The Whole Story – a 12 week course covering the big picture message of the Bible. Yes, it will be a chronological teaching approach from Creation to Christ! If you’re interested, just click the picture below for more information.

**UPDATE** Our Spring 2019 group is currently full, but you can still sign up below to join the waiting list for the next time our group opens!

 

Join our first ever ONLINE Bible study group! The Whole Story is a 12 week look at the message of the Bible, beginning at creation and ending after Christ. This group is perfect for both Bible study beginners and seasoned students of the Word. #biblestudy #onlinebiblestudy #free #big picture Being Confident of This | The Stranger on the Road to Emmaus | studying the Bible chronologically | Bible study method | How to study the Bible | The best way to study the Bible | creation to Christ | the big picture of God's Word | how to study the Bible

 

 

 

 

Why is studying the Bible from Creation to Christ the best method? If you want to know more about the Bible... #Biblestudy #tips #christianwomen #christiangrowth Being Confident of This | Bible study methods | why study chronologically | reasons to study the Bible as a whole | why chronological study matters for Christians | growing in faith | how to have more faith | Christian resources for growth | firm foundation | knowing the Bible | want to know more about the Bible

Filed Under: Christianity Tagged With: Benefits of Bible Study Series, best way to study God's Word, Bible study, Christian living, chronological Bible study, how to study the Bible, Identity in Christ

How to Study the Bible: 4 Resources

January 25, 2019 by jstults Leave a Comment

As a church-planter’s wife, I have the privilege of leading a weekly Women’s Bible Study group. Walking with these women through life has taught me a great deal about Christian women in general.

Most of us would agree that we need more time in God’s Word. Most of us would also agree that we face many obstacles – time, desire, the know-how, and so forth.

I believe Christian women desire to study the Bible, but many just don’t know where to start!

And let’s be honest, not all Bible study resources are worthwhile.

That’s why I want to wrap up the Benefits of Bible Study series with a list of Bible Study Resources that we have used and loved. These are trusted resources for everyone, from beginners to experienced believers. We have used these tools personally, as well as with our Bible study groups.

How to Study the Bible: 4 Exceptional Resources

  1. The FOCUSed15 Series from Katie Orr

My first introduction to this series came from Katie Orr herself when she spoke at our state women’s conference a few years ago. Each of Katie’s sessions were rich with the Word, and I loved her idea of real, focused Bible study that only takes 15 minutes a day. It’s perfect for busy women!

This past year, I took a group of women through her study Everyday Obedience, and we all enjoyed the grace-filled approach. And as a woman who struggles with perfectionism, this study was a perfect follow-up after finishing my own book manuscript – Being Confident of This.

Reasons why I think the FOCUS15 series is the perfect starting place for any woman who wants to learn how to study the Bible:

  • lessons only take 15 minutes a day (yes, this born skeptic actually timed it), but she also includes additional verses for further study
  • there is a “cheat sheet” located at the end of each chapter, perfect for beginners
  • Katie’s easy Bible study method doesn’t equal fluff – you will learn the FOCUS method of study

You can also find a lot of free Bible study resources at her website!

2. Blue Letter Bible Website

If you have ever used the excuse that you don’t have the resources for “real” Bible study, then this is the site for you!

Blue Letter Bible is a website similar to Bible Gateway and Bible Hub that is useful for studying God’s Word when you don’t have tools like concordances, dictionaries, and parallel Bibles at home (and to be honest, even if you have those resources, using Blue Letter Bible is quick and easy).

If you want to know what the Bible says about a particular subject, just type it in the search bar. You can also look up a verse and, using the “tools” button, you get instant access to an Interlinear Bible (useful for keyword study), a Bibles tab that contains many different translations for parallel reading, a dictionary tab, etc.

Basically, this FREE website is a one-stop-shop for excellent Bible study, and is easy to learn to use by following online tutorials.

I use blueletterbible.org in my daily quiet time, to prepare Bible study lessons or talks for speaking engagements, and to teach our church members how to study the Bible, too! There’s also an app version available, but many of our ladies have found the app to be a bit finicky. So, I tend to stick with the desktop version (which you can still access on your phone)!

Reasons why I love Blue Letter Bible Website for everyone who wants to know how to study the Bible:

  • It’s absolutely free
  • I have nearly everything I need for in-depth Bible study in ONE spot
  • I can quickly switch back and forth between the tabbed resources it contains (and open as many windows as I need for my cross-references, too!)

Want to learn more about how to study the Bible? These 4 favorite resources can help! #Biblestudy #howto #benefitsofbiblestudy #discipleship Being Confident of This | Christian women | Bible study tools | Bible study tips | Bible study methods | how to study God's Word | Scripture | growing in Christ | Bible study for beginners

3. Bible Study Methods by Arabah Joy

Friend, has your Bible time felt sluggish lately? Do you ever read the Word and walk away wondering if you got anything from it?

We use this course at our church plant because we realize that not every Christian enjoys studying the Bible in the same way. Arabah Joy’s course covers more intellectual, in-depth Bible Study Methods like root word/keyword study, topical Bible study, etc. However, she also explains how to do less time-consuming methods of study, like verse-mapping (my new favorite) and even methods of study that involve more worship, like her TASTE method.

If you are a Christian woman who has struggled with the desire to study the Bible for yourself, I highly recommend this course. Why? Because when you know several different Bible study methods, you can vary the ones that you use, which keeps Bible study fresh!

Want to learn how to study the Bible? These 4 exceptional resources can help you! #Biblestudy #howto #faith #benefitsofbiblestudy Being Confident of This | Christian women | work-in-progress women | how to study the Bible | ways to study the Bible | verse-mapping | word study | Bible journaling | Bible study aids | Topical Bible Study | spiritual growth | studying God's Word | Benefits of Bible Study series

I, myself, am a creature of habit who loves drawing deeper connections, so I thrive on word and topical studies. Through the Bible Study Methods course, I realized I often neglect the aspect of worship during my Bible study time, as well. I find it difficult to be still before the Lord. I needed that push to learn new ways of connecting to God’s Word.

Reasons why I love Bible Study Methods for both beginners AND experienced believers who want to know more about how to study the Bible:

  • 7 different methods allow for variety
  • the teaching videos teach new methods step-by-step – helpful for beginners!
  • it contains Bible study worksheets that you can print out over and over again

4. The Stranger on the Road to Emmaus by John Cross

Surprisingly, many Christians have never studied the Bible chronologically. I’ll save the reasons why for another time, but if you’ve never studied the Bible chronologically, you should! I grew up in a Christian home with parents who valued God’s Word. They were faithful to take me to church and provide opportunities for discipleship. Nevertheless, I failed to fully understand certain foundational truths until I read this book.

I’ll never forget how my eyes were opened to God’s plan from the very beginning. I’m still amazed at the symbolism of the tabernacle and events surrounding Jesus’ crucifixion!

Friend, do you know the tri-fold significance of Jesus’ dying words, “It is finished”? If not, you should.

If I could only recommend ONE book in my lifetime (aside from the Bible itself), The Stranger on the Road to Emmaus by John Cross would be it. It teaches us how to study the Bible by giving us the firm foundation we need in order to comprehend the rest of Scripture!

I’ve walked through this book with a variety of women – from the unsaved to mature believers.

Each time, I gain a new insight. Each time the women make new connections they had never made before. I really don’t have enough space here to tell you how much I love this book for Christian discipleship, so just go get one for yourself! 😉

Reasons why I love The Stranger on the Road to Emmaus and wish every believer would read it:

  • using Scripture, it walks readers from creation to Christ, providing an overview of God’s story of love
  • it provides the necessary foundation for real spiritual growth and roots new believers in a firm understanding of gospel truths
  • it helps readers understand the importance of the Old Testament and how it connects to the New Testament

Honestly, I could go on and on about this particular resource. I wish I could give one to every person I meet!

In fact, as a follow-up to the Benefits of Bible Study series, I will be hosting my first ever online Bible study group using The Stranger on the Road to Emmaus. If you’d like more details, be sure to sign-up for updates in the form below. You can also learn more by following along on the BCOT facebook page. We are limiting this group to the first 25 women to sign up, so don’t miss out!

Friend, the Word of God is so essential to our Christian growth. I pray you’ll take time this week to grow in the knowledge of the Word!

Do you have a favorite resource for learning how to study the Bible? Feel free to share with us in the comments below!

Jen

Would you like to stay connected so you can learn more about our upcoming online Bible study? Simply fill out the form below to join our subscriber list. As a bonus, you’ll receive a link to our library of FREE Bible resources! More information on the Bible study will be coming in the next couple of weeks! (BONUS: you’ll also get access to our library of FREE Bible printables!)

Do you want to learn how to study the Bible for yourself? Are you sometimes embarrassed by your lack of Bible knowledge? These 4 resources will help! #biblestudy #christianwomen #christiangrowth #faith how to study the Bible | ways to study the Bible | better bible study | tools for Bible study | Bible study methods | Bible study for women | women's Bible study resources | favorite bible studies for women | Being Confident of This | Benefits of Bible Study series

Filed Under: Christianity Tagged With: Benefits of Bible Study Series, Bible study, Christian growth, Christian living, discipleship, how to study the Bible

6 More Benefits of Studying God’s Word

January 14, 2019 by jstults Leave a Comment

Most Christian women have heard of the importance of regular Bible study, yet many fail to see the Bible as the powerful weapon and tool it is described as in Scripture. Some are simply unaware of the many benefits of studying God’s Word!

I see it all too often in my own life, and in the lives of others – we tend to rely on our own wisdom and the wisdom or advice of others more so than we do God’s Word.

Isn’t that sad?

But I’m frequently guilty of problem-solving on my own, and I’m sure you are, too, friend, because that’s human nature.

I can’t tell you how many times women have sat across from me, often in tears, relating a personal problem or issue they’re struggling with. Yet when asked, they can’t tell me what the Bible says about their problem, or even if they can tell me what the Bible says, they admit doubting it’s truth.

And I can relate because I’ve had that same struggle between knowing what is true and believing what is true myself!

If we want to experience confident faith and abundant life, then we must be more than just “familiar” with the Bible. The more time we spend in the Word, the more opportunity we have to grow in Christ, the easier it becomes to trust not only God’s character, but His very Word!

The Bible is clear that scripture is living and active, friend (Hebrews 4:12), a powerful tool in the life of Christ-followers, so why do we so easily lay it aside?

6 More Benefits of Studying God’s Word

**If you missed the original Benefits of Bible Study posts, you can read about why you need to study God’s Word for yourself here and then read first 5 promising benefits of personal study here.

6. One of the most important benefits of studying God’s Word is that it gives us life (both spiritual AND physical)!

Scripture teaches that man doesn’t live by bread alone, but by the word of God (Mt. 4:4). Studying the Word doesn’t just give us spiritual life, but also physical life! The same idea is confirmed in other places in the Bible, as well:

Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name. John 20:30-31 (NIV)

For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. 1 Peter 1:23 (NIV)

I am laid low in the dust; preserve my life according to your word. Psalm 119:25 (NIV)

This is my comfort in my affliction, That Your word has revived me. Psalm 119:50 (NASB)

7. Studying God’s Word also helps us to grow in faith and in Christ-likeness.

Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation… 1 Peter 2:2 (NIV)

So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ. Romans 10:17 (NASB)

If faith comes from hearing the Word of God, then it follows that the more we hear it, the more likely our faith is to grow (obviously there are exceptions to this – it all depends on our heart condition and how receptive we are to the Word).  When we are new in Christ, we are like spiritual babies who need spiritual milk to grow and flourish, but as we grow, we need solid food – deeper spiritual truths (as mentioned in Heb. 5:12-13).

Whether mature or immature, our spiritual growth relies on us taking in the nourishment we need consistently!

Do you know why it's so important to understand the Bible? Here are 6 more benefits of studying God's Word from the Benefits of Bible Study series. #benefitsofbiblestudy #Bibleverses #growinginfaith #christianliving Being Confident of This | spiritual growth | understanding the Bible | reading the Bible | studying God's Word | Scripture | Bible study | Christian women | strong faith | confidence | personal study | how to study | discipleship | Christian living | spiritual growth

8. Another benefit of studying God’s Word is that as we mature, we can lead others in truth, too!

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. 1 Peter 3:15-16 (NIV)

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV)

Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15 (NIV)

As Christ’s ambassadors here on this Earth, we have a responsibility to share the truth with others, but we must be careful to do so in a God-honoring way. We cannot correctly handle God’s Word or train others (including our own children) if we don’t rightly understand His Word for ourselves. This is one reason why personal Bible study is essential in the life of Christian women!

9. Studying the Word also helps us to fight spiritual battles and experience victory!

Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.” Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” Matthew 4:1-4 (NIV)

As Christian women, the Bible is clear that we will face both temptation to sin and accusations from the Enemy.

And don’t we know it, friend?

But the Word is equally clear that we have a weapon to use in our defense – God’s truth!

Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Ephesians 6:17 (NIV)

As part of our spiritual armor, we’ve been given a weapon – the sword of the Spirit – which is used not only to defend ourselves, but also to fight back!

Let’s follow the example of Christ. Let’s study the Word so that we know the best verses to use to combat the Enemy’s lies and accusations.

Do you struggle to know where to start when studying God's Word? Or is your quiet time becoming stagnant or boring? The Bible Study Notebook contains a year's worth of Bible study helps, methods, and plans! #biblestudy #benefitsofbiblestudy #faith #spiritualgrowth The Benefits of Bible Study series from Being Confident of This - learn the benefits of studying God's Word. Christian women | growing in Christ | understanding the Bible | bible notebook | bible study printables | bible study methods

10. The Bible gives us peace and hope.

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you. Phil. 4:8-9 (NIV)

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. Romans 15:4 (NIV)

One additional benefit of studying God’s Word is that we experience hope and peace that are beyond worldly explanation.

Is your life full of chaos? Spend time in the Word.

Does all hope seem lost? Run to the Word.

You will find in the Bible a special comfort that you cannot find in this world, friend!

11. Finally, spending time studying God’s Word helps us produce spiritual fruit.

Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers. Ps. 1:2-3

What Christian woman doesn’t want to yield more spiritual fruit?

We can all use more patience, more joy, more peace, more kindness, right?

When we delight in God’s law (Old Testament reference to Scripture), when we study it by meditating on it and memorizing it, we bear fruit that we cannot possibly bear on our own.

We prosper! And in doing so, we bring much glory to the Father.

Friend, please don’t neglect the potential power of God’s Word in your life. It’s immeasurable and indescribable.

Time spent in the Bible is time well-spent. Just consider the many benefits we’ve discussed in the Benefits of Bible Study series!

Next week we’ll be wrapping up this series with some of my favorite tools for excellent Bible study – resources that will help you make the most of your time spent in the Word!

Until then, take a few minutes to meditate on God’s Word today, won’t you?

Jen 🙂

P.S. If you can’t wait until next week, one of my new favorite Bible study tools is below (my affiliate link) The Love the Word Bible Study Binder by Arabah Joy contains a whole year’s worth of Bible study helps – reading plans, journaling sheets, and the PROSPER Bible study method. I worked on the design for this binder, and it’s one of my favorite projects ever!! Knowing the both the quality AND quantity of material this product contains lets me recommend it with confidence. 🙂

Do you struggle to know where to start when studying God's Word? Or is your quiet time becoming stagnant or boring? The Bible Study Notebook contains a year's worth of Bible study helps, methods, and plans! #biblestudy #benefitsofbiblestudy #faith #spiritualgrowth The Benefits of Bible Study series from Being Confident of This - learn the benefits of studying God's Word. Christian women | growing in Christ | understanding the Bible | bible notebook | bible study printables | bible study methods

Do you know all of the amazing benefits of studying God's Word? Learn more through the benefits of Bible Study series! #biblestudy #benefitsofbiblestudy #Christianliving #discipleship Being Confident of This | reasons to study the Bible | how to study the Bible | benefits of studying God's Word | scripture | why we should read the Bible | how to grow in Christ | how to grow spiritually | spiritual growth | mature | growing in faith

Filed Under: Christianity Tagged With: Benefits of Bible Study Series, Bible study, Biblical truth, Christian growth, Christian living, Devotional Thought, discipleship, Women of Faith

Why You Need to Study God’s Word for Yourself

November 5, 2018 by jstults Leave a Comment

My fun-loving pastor (who also happens to be my husband) really enjoys teasing others to the point that I’m convinced teasing is actually his primary love language. One of his favorite jokes in church settings is to use the eleventh commandment to his advantage.

When speaking to a church member recently, he said something along the lines of, “You know the eleventh commandment says ‘Thou shalt volunteer five hours a week until the work on the church building is completed.’”

The usual response to one of his eleventh commandment statements is surprise, often followed by confusion.

Those who know his teasing ways well are quick to catch on while others question whether or not there is an eleventh commandment, but many just accept what he says as fact. He IS a pastor after all, so he must know what he’s talking about, right?

Of course, my husband is quick to point out his own teasing, but in our current world, not all would-be deceivers are benevolent. In fact, most are quite the opposite – most set out to deceive us in order to lead us away from God’s ways and toward our own destruction.

From the story above, you can see how blind acceptance of what another person claims to be true about God’s Word can be a real problem for God’s people. Confusion over God’s truth has been a problem since the very beginning when the serpent in the garden used a portion of God’s very words to deceive Adam and Eve.

When Christians are unfamiliar with what the Bible actually says, when they haven’t dedicated time to learning biblical truth for themselves instead of just believing what they’ve been told, they become easy targets, sitting ducks. If you fail to study God’s Word for yourself, you set yourself up for a failure of faith.

How can you recognize or contradict false teaching if you don’t first have a foundation of truth?

How can you overcome spiritual warfare and answer Satan’s lies with truth without knowing where in the Bible to find it?

How can you lead others to walk in truth, too?

3 Vital Reasons to Study God’s Word for Yourself

As Christian women, we must choose to prioritize the practice of real Bible study so that we have what we need to stand firm when doubts come knocking, when trials threaten to overwhelm us, when Satan tempts us, and when the world attempts to manipulate us.

1. Stand firm in your beliefs.

Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him,  having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude. See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ. Colossians 2:6-8 (NASB)

We want to be captivated by Christ and His truth, not taken captive by false teachers or worldly wisdom.

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We need to be more like the Bereans, who when they heard the gospel, examined Scripture daily to see if it was really true (Acts 17:11)! The only way to grow in your understanding of Christ and how to follow Him is to study God’s Word for yourself.

I’ll never forget the lesson I learned about this truth during my first biology class as a freshman at a Christian college. Since I spent much of my growing up years as a missionary kid, I lived a fairly sheltered life. So I was surprised to discover that my faith-professing biology professor at my Christian college believed in evolution. In fact, not only did he believe in evolution, he actively worked to convince us that real faith, strong faith was compatible with this belief, also.

He even insinuated that to believe otherwise was either to be ignorant or to have weak faith.

Do you know why studying God's Word for yourself is so vital? Don't miss out on the benefits of Bible study! #benefitsofbiblestudy #Biblestudy #Christiangrowth #spiritualdisciplines Being Confident of This | Christian women | Bible studies | resources | printables | reasons to study the Bible | Why every Christian should study God's Word | spiritual growth | scriptures |growing in faith

In the months that followed, I felt increasingly conflicted. I valued academics and knowledge, but I also valued my faith. I wondered if what I believed about God being the Creator of the Universe was really true or not.

It was a mini crisis of faith for me, and I was on my own. My parents were still serving overseas – literally halfway around the world.

At some point I realized that choosing what to believe was totally up to me now. I had to decide for myself what to believe about the beginnings of our world, and I could only do that by studying the Word. So that’s what I did. I studied the biblical account of Creation. I studied what critics said about a seven-day creation model, as well as what Christian scientists said about it.

Eventually I came to the conclusion that I either believed God’s Word or I didn’t, and if I didn’t, well then my entire salvation was a lie because a virgin birth is just as “scientifically impossible” as Creation.

I came out of that crisis with a firmer belief than before because instead of relying on what my parents and other Christians claimed to be true, I had studied it out for myself. I’ve never questioned that particular doctrinal belief since then. Instead of being susceptible to the persuasive words of my professor, I could stand firm in my belief because it really was MY belief, not just teaching passed on to me by someone else.

2. Grow into a mature believer.

Here’s the truth, friends: we most certainly can and should learn from other Christians and leaders in the faith. In fact, that’s likely how believers who are young in the faith gain much of their knowledge initially. But at some point, we have to grow up in the faith and quit relying on others to tell us what God’s Word says.

For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you have need again for someone to teach you the elementary principles of the oracles of God, and you have come to need milk and not solid food. For everyone who partakes only of milk is not accustomed to the word of righteousness, for he is an infant. But solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to discern good and evil. Hebrews 5:12-14 (NASB)

At some point, we must choose to dig into the Scriptures and discover truth for ourselves, and we CAN do that with the help of the Holy Spirit! Don’t content yourself with mere milk, friends, when the banquet of the entire Bible is yours to feast on!

If you don’t study God’s Word for yourself, then your faith is only as strong as your trust in what others say. Living on second-hand knowledge is choosing stunted growth.

If you want to be a strong Christian women with confident faith, you must begin by studying the Bible.
Want to study God's Word for yourself but not sure where to start? The Bible Study Binder is full of resources designed to help you dig into the Bible on your own. Let the Holy Spirit guide you as you grow in biblical truth! #Biblestudy #scripture #spiritualgrowth #faith

3. Experience the abundant life He has planned for you.

For the next few weeks, we’ll be looking at the spiritual discipline of personal Bible study and the promising benefits that are ours for the taking!

The Benefits of Bible Study series will lead you to understand not only the importance of studying God’s Word but also the blessings of it, as well. What you may not realize is when you study God’s Word for yourself, you reap rewards beyond acquiring knowledge and understanding – bonus benefits, so to speak. Likewise, there are some not-so-pretty consequences for lacking an understanding of the Bible.

Failing to spend time in Scripture is like turning down a gift! Who does that, right? 😉

At the end of the series, I’ll be offering some practical tools and resources to help you learn how to make God’s Word a vital part of your everyday life – through Bible study and meditation, scripture memorization, and so forth. So plan to stick around, and invite your friends to join us, too!

For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. Romans 15:4 (NASB)

Let’s be women of the Word!

Jen 🙂
Studying God's Word for yourself  is essential to developing a firm foundation of faith! Don't leave yourself open to doubt and attacks. #Biblestudy #Christianwomen #firmfoundation #benefitsofBiblestudy Being Confident of This | Benefits of Bible Study Series | how to grow in faith | how to have confident faith | spiritual disciplines | new believers | solid doctrine | biblical truth | learn how to study the Bible | Bible study | devotional | encouragement

 

 

Filed Under: Christianity Tagged With: Benefits of Bible Study Series, Bible study, Christian living, Christian Women, scripture, spiritual disciplines, spiritual growth, study God's Word for yourself, why we should study God's Word, Word of God

Hi, I'm Jen: a work in progress. I'm imperfect - a mom of four, pastor's wife, discipler, and sinner saved only by grace. I like to sing, read, write, teach, and smile. I have a heart for encouraging women everywhere to understand God's limitless love for them and what His grace means for everyday living. Welcome! :) Read More…

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