Counsels on Mental Health

Counsel #6 — The Bible

Picture: Counsel #6 — The Bible CMH 88.1

Spending time in the Bible is an essential element of our alone time with God.^[90] Don’t be in a hurry. Pause as you read to pray about what is impressing you. Take time to imagine the setting of what you are reading. What might God be saying to you personally through the narrative or teaching? How might what you are reading point to the cross, where Christ bore in Himself the punishment for your sins? CMH 88.2

“For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12 NKJV CMH 88.3

“There is but little benefit derived from a hasty reading of the Scriptures. One may read the whole Bible through and yet fail to see its beauty or comprehend its deep and hidden meaning. One passage studied until its significance is clear to the mind and its relation to the plan of salvation is evident, is of more value than the perusal of many chapters with no definite purpose in view and no positive instruction gained.” Ellen White in Homeward Bound, p. 16 CMH 88.4

Reflect: Do you read the Bible to “put in the time” or do you consider carefully what God might be saying to you in the passage? CMH 88.5