Deeper: Developing Deeper Intimacy With GodSample

Studying the Word

I felt the need to break reading the Word out in this plan to stress that there is a difference between reading and studying the Bible. While this topic also deserves its own plan, I want to encourage you to take your reading of the Word to the next level. But before I do that, let me also address something that can be commonplace in building a relationship with God.

Many people want to hear God’s voice in their pursuit of building deeper intimacy with Him. This phrase can be problematic for many who say, “I’ve never heard His voice. What does it sound like?” Remember that His voice sounds like His Word. Pastor Brian Duley of Nikao Church says, “When you can’t hear a voice, look for a verse.” Everything God ever needed to give us is in His Word. John 1 describes Jesus as the Word, and Jesus said my sheep know my voice. Therefore, knowing His Word helps us recognize His voice.

Now, back to studying the Word. Peeling back the layers of the Bible’s surface can help you reach another level of intimacy. I encourage you not to read the Bible for what can be gleaned by reading it like a book. Studying the Word requires considering context, culture, original language, and history. Doing this enables us to hear what God is truly saying versus what we think a text is saying. This may require resources in addition to the Bible, such as a study Bible, Bible dictionary, or concordance.

For example, when you realize that Matthew is writing to Jewish people questioning how Jesus is the Messiah, you see why he begins with the genealogy of Christ. Or that the region of Caesarea Phillipi is a rocky region, where Jesus reveals that upon this rock, He will build His church. In line with today’s theme, Paul told Timothy to study to show himself approved before God as a young ministry leader left in charge. I share all of this to say that there is so much more to be gleaned from God by doing the extra work to consider these additional factors.

As you make connections like these and so many others, the revelation of who God is and His nature becomes clearer. Now, we will never have God completely figured out, but I can honestly say that my study time makes pursuing God much more fulfilling.