Where are the following scriptures found?
- “I am the LORD, the God of all the peoples of the world. Is anything too hard for me?”
- “Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.”
- “Indeed, God helps those who help themselves.”
- “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
- “And without faith, it is impossible to please God because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”
I had a nursing professor who told us, “When you know something you are able to recall those facts every time they are needed. Because that is the ability of the brain’s short-term and long-term memory.” How well do you know the scriptures? You are not alone. Many choose not to study the Bible. Of course, we attempt to justify why we fail to study. Even so, the main reason is that God is not the #1 priority in our lives. We simply do not love and serve God with all of our heart, soul, and mind. But the truth of the matter is that the knowledge we require to have a deep understanding of who God is, His character and love for humanity, to possess peace, inner joy, and to live righteously is found in the Bible.
In Paul’s letter to Timothy, he says, “But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you. You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:14-15
We do not require a pastor or minister to study the Bible. God has given us the Holy Spirit to provide us with a complete understanding of the scriptures and the ability to live holy. But you have received the Holy Spirit, and he lives within you, so you don’t need anyone to teach you what is true. For the Spirit teaches you everything you need to know, and what he teaches is true—it is not a lie. So just as he has taught you, remain in fellowship with Christ. 1 John 2:27
How important is studying the Bible?
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16,17
It is impossible to obtain spiritual growth without studying the Word of God, nor is it possible to know who God truly is. Only diligent seekers can live a faith-based life because they have a deep relationship with the “Almighty God.”
Without a biblical foundation and the Holy Spirit, we cannot determine truth from error. Did you know #3 of the above list of scriptures is not found in the Bible? The phrase “God helps those who help themselves” is a motto that emphasizes the importance of self-initiative and agency (taking action to produce a desired effect).
We are living in the last days. Diligent study along with continuous prayer is essential for us to stand firm in Jesus Christ. Make a total commitment to God by serving Him with love, faith, trust, and obedience.
Bible Study: 2 Timothy 3:16
God, thank you for the Sabbath. We confess that we not study the Bible as we should, nor do we have a close relationship with you. Please forgive us for not placing you as the #1 priority in our lives. We ask you to fill us with your Holy Spirit as we study, and may we always recognize that you are the Almighty. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2021, No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted for commercial purposes without the author’s written permission.
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