We just finished the third week of class titled “How did we get the Bible?” It was great. My heart was filled with joy! The students were very much engaged; their questions were thoughtful. We learned about the ancient manuscripts that gave us the Word of God. Who can’t get excited about that? Nothing encourages me more than seeing adults take a night out of their week to attend a Bible course and knowing they study outside of class to prepare for the weekly quiz (yeah, that’s right, and they did well). Is this part of God’s plan for joy?
SOURCE OF THE GREATEST JOY
Believers find satisfaction and peace in many acceptable ways. But let me say this: your greatest joy will come when you are deeply rooted in the Word of God! Consistent study of the Word cultivates eternal values and deepens our knowledge of God. That brings joy. So, what’s the problem with becoming rooted in the Word of God? Many of us only hope and make short-lived resolutions.
WITHOUT A PLAN, DISASTER COMES
If you came over to my house and told me you wanted to build me a new house, I would say, “Great. Show me what you have in mind.” What if you then took out your hammer, headed outside, and started building? At that point, I wouldn’t be interested anymore. Without a plan, you are asking for disaster.
QUESTIONS TO ASK
A plan to study the Word of God starts with a few questions. First: where do you plan to do this study, and what part of the day will you do it? If you have a family, this question becomes critical. Jesus himself knew something about planning: “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it? For if he lays the foundation and is not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule him and say, ‘This fellow began to build and was not able to finish’” (Luke 14:28-30). If Jesus saw the importance of planning a building, how much more critical is it to plan for something that will help you grow as a believer? Spending time in the Word of God will bring the joy we all want.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
But the planning doesn’t stop with where and when; it continues with the study itself. Which biblical book do we want to begin with? How do we study it? Do we look at the themes first, study it chapter by chapter, or look at the historical setting? These are all things to consider. I suggest getting a book like “Living by the Book” by Howard G. Hendricks. Many good resources can help you plan for a wonderful time in God’s Word. It will bring you joy.
THE GOAL
Never forget that our main goal is to be changed and transformed by reading, studying, and meditating on God’s Word. Romans 12:2 says, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” That’s the recipe for joy.
Starting new habits, like a constant focus on the Word, can bring joy into your life, but remember: the more you focus on it, the more joy it will bring. Bring this before God. Ask Him how to develop your Bible study. Maybe He will start first by changing your attitude toward it. Like my wonderful students, you can learn to love God’s Word. Make a plan to discover its riches. It will bring you joy!
Click to read more on how to study the Bible.