A lot of us respect the Bible but if we’re honest with ourselves, we struggle to love it. We haven’t learned to “consume” what’s spiritually nourishing. Scripture is not just literature; it’s spiritual fuel, essential for our growth and vitality.
In this episode, Whit and Casey discuss how to learn and grow in our understanding and love of God’s Word.
Many of us treat the Bible like it’s a plate of vegetables—good for us, but not necessarily enjoyable. We might respect it, but do we truly love it? Do we crave its wisdom and guidance? If we’re honest, sometimes we find it hard to dive into Scripture. It can feel daunting, like a language we haven’t fully learned yet.
But here’s the truth: Scripture is not just a book of wise sayings or historical accounts. It’s the food of life, the spiritual fuel that powers our journey with God. Just as we need physical nourishment to thrive, our souls need the sustenance that comes from God’s Word.
We can’t rely solely on others to study the Bible for us. Think of Scripture as God’s language. Are we willing to put in the effort to learn it, to understand His voice speaking to us through its pages? It’s a journey worth taking, one that leads to deeper intimacy with God.
At the heart of engaging with Scripture is a simple yet profound desire—to learn. It’s not about having all the answers or feeling guilty for not being where we want to be spiritually. Every journey with God starts with a basic understanding and a willingness to grow.
To love the Lord with all our mind, as Scripture instructs, requires intentional effort. In a culture where instant gratification and automatic responses are the norm, the discipline of deep thinking is often neglected. However, it’s in moments of deliberate reflection that we can truly meditate on and retain what we study.
Studying our Bible should be less about checking a box and more about having meaningful time with the Lord. The biblical idea of meditation is to fill your mind––taking the words into your heart and mind and really considering what it means.
Find some time in your week where you can slow down long enough to really meditate on what you’re reading – even if it’s one verse. It will be more meaningful than you realize:
“You may have been told that it is good to read the Bible through every year…If you do this you may enjoy the reputation of one who reads the Bible through each year, and you may congratulate yourself on it. But will you become more like Christ and more filled with the life of God? It is a proven fact that many who read the Bible in this way, as if they were taking medicine or exercising on a schedule, do not advance spiritually. It is better in one year to have ten good verses transferred into the substance of our lives than to have every word of the Bible flash before our eyes.” – Dallas Willard
Stories are powerful tools that help us navigate and comprehend the complexities of life. They provide context, meaning, and direction. Whether they know it or not, everyone is living in some kind of story.
The biblical narrative not only helps us make sense of the world but also guides us in discerning what is truly important and how we should live in light of God’s truth.
When we understand the overarching story from Genesis to Revelation, we can understand our place in the story.
In our journey with Scripture, it’s easy to place ourselves at the center of the narrative. After all, our human experiences and perspectives often shape how we interpret God’s Word. However, there’s a profound shift that occurs when we step back and view the entire story with Jesus at its core.
The Bible unfolds as a unified narrative pointing unmistakably to Jesus. Every story, every prophecy, and every command finds its fulfillment and purpose in Him. It’s not just a collection of disjointed texts but a cohesive and purposeful revelation of God’s plan for redemption.
Scripture was historically taught and studied in community.
Join a Bible study group or connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about Scripture. Surrounding yourself with others who share your enthusiasm can provide support, encouragement, and valuable insights.
It’s so important to be in spaces where you are learning Scripture from someone who is gifted and trained to teach it. At Church on the Move, this could look like being a part of COTMU, one of our Bible Studies, or even attending our weekend services.
Also, take advantage of the wealth of biblical resources available today. From commentaries and study guides to online courses and podcasts, there are so many tools that can enhance your understanding and appreciation of the Bible. (Check out the show notes for a list of recommended resources.)
Be intentional about your approach. Start with manageable portions and take it one step at a time. God will meet you right where you’re at. When you begin to treasure the Bible, you’ll begin to hear God leading, guiding, and correcting through its words.
Check out the Message: How to Hear God Through His Word https://youtu.be/cZi3yfjiAO4?si=FTDQrxvMU6BkML3h
Book Resources:
Eat This Book by Eugene Peterson
How to Read the Bible for All It’s Worth by Gordon D. Fee and Douglas Stuart
Podcasts:
Bible Books in 30 Minutes Podcast
Study Scripture in Community: https://churchonthemove.com/cotmu
test test