by fawehinmi Oluwatobi
How can we get the best from our study of the Bible in order to hear God speaking to our hearts? Firstly, we must pray before we begin reading and studying.
Next, we find another thought in the following quotation: There is nothing more calculated to strengthen the intellect than the study of the Scriptures. No other book is so potent to elevate the thoughts, to give vigor to the faculties, as the broad, ennobling truths of the Bible. If God's word were studied as it should be, men would have a breadth of mind, a nobility of character, and a stability of purpose rarely seen in these times. Steps to Christ 90.1
The emboldened, italicised and under lined clause indicates that there is a way to study the Bible. In Isaiah 28:9,10, they say to study “precept upon precept ” and “ line upon line. ” This implies going step by step, command being built upon command and verse by verse. Consider the following quotations:
''But there is but little benefit derived from a hasty reading of the Scriptures. One may read the whole Bible through and yet fail to see its beauty or comprehend its deep and hidden meaning.''
One passage studied until its significance is clear to the mind and its relation to the plan of salvation is evident, is of more value than the perusal of many chapters with no definite purpose in view and no positive instruction gained.’’ Steps to Christ 90.2
In daily study the verse-by-verse method is often most helpful. Let the student take one verse, and concentrate the mind on ascertaining the thought that God has put into that verse for him, and then dwell upon the thought until it becomes his own. One passage thus studied until its significance is clear is of more value than the perusal of many chapters with no definite purpose in view and no positive instruction gained. Education 189.4