Making the Bible Come Alive!

By Bill Rudge

If you are a new Christian or just wanting to study the Bible, I recommend starting with the book of John, then reading through the entire New Testament. If you have time for a second Bible study each day, begin with the book of Genesis and continue reading through the Old Testament. Going back and forth from the Old Testament to the New Testament is insightful, and sometimes hard to stop because there are so many interesting accounts! Before reading Scripture, I ask the Lord to open my spiritual eyes and heart. When finished, I ask Him to enable me to apply that which is beneficial to my life.

When I start a new book of the Bible, I like to read the entire book straight through or listen to it on an audio recording to get a summary. Then I go back and reread it chapter by chapter and contemplate its meaning. I meditate on each verse, like a cow chewing its cud, trying to assimilate it into my spiritual lifeblood. During this second reading, I do background research, examine corresponding Scripture references and sometimes use a commentary or other reference material. It might take me a month or more to go through one book of the Bible in this manner. Then I reread the entire book straight through again. This is an effective way to learn and remember Scripture.

By following this procedure, God’s truth and principles have come alive in my mind, my heart and my life. I try to read the Word and pray three times a day (morning, noon, and evening). When I take time for Bible study and prayer, the Lord seems to multiply my time and the day usually goes much better.

As you study Scripture you will discover the attitudes and behaviors the Lord loves as well as those He hates. His Spirit will transform your life to help you overcome that which dishonors Him and give you a desire to embrace that which honors Him. Developing a biblical worldview and lifestyle will prove to be a most beneficial pursuit and the fulfilling priority of your life.

My desire is to give up anything that hinders my quest to know and live for Christ. My passion is to be empowered by His Spirit to live out what He has called me to be and do. Has it been worth it? Absolutely! May the Lord give each of us an even greater revelation of Him through His Word!