Embracing God's Presence Through PrayerSample

Martin Luther said studying the Bible was like picking apples. First, you shake the trunk, then you shake the limb, then you shake the branch, then you shake the twig, and then you look under every leaf. There’s no other book in the world like it. You can read the same Bible verse a dozen times and get a dozen different insights. That’s because it’s ‘God-breathed’. (2 Timothy 3:16 NIV) Here’s what Jesus said about studying God’s Word: ‘[Things are hidden temporarily only as a means to revelation.] For there is nothing hidden except to be revealed, nor is anything [temporarily] kept secret except in order that it may be made known.’ (Mark 4:22 AMP) Then He adds: ‘Be careful what you are hearing. The measure [of thought and study] you give [to the truth you hear] will be the measure [of virtue and knowledge] that comes back to you—and more [besides] will be given to you who hear.’

Do you want to grow spiritually? Build better relationships? Succeed in your career? Conquer anxiety and find peace? Break a bad habit? Be healed from the emotional wounds of your past? Then, meditate on, ponder, think about, practice mentally, and verbalise the Word of God. Instead of living off someone else’s spiritual insight, study God’s Word for yourself and allow the Holy Spirit to bless you with life-transforming insights.

Jesus said, ‘The Spirit takes My message and tells it to you.’ (John 16:15 CEV) And you’ll experience the truth of those words when you personalise the Scripture you’re reading.