Counsels on Mental Health

Counsel #4 — Bible Study Brings Hope!

Picture: Counsel #4 — Bible Study Brings Hope! CMH 14.1

Every aspect of the human experience benefits from Bible reading, if read from a sincere desire to know and follow God. Not only does study of the Bible reveal God and His character to us, we can also learn about His plans for our lives and the world to come.^[12] CMH 14.2

Reading the Word of God helps us grow in spiritual maturity which reduces our stress and anxiety and increases our emotional well-being. We learn to trust Jesus through His Word, and to believe that the Bible’s promises were also written for us (1 Corinthians 10:11). Consider taping your favorite Bible promises on your mirror, dashboard, refrigerator, etc., and read them out loud when you see them. CMH 14.3

“For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.” Romans 15:4 CMH 14.4

“I recommend to you, dear reader, the word of God as the rule of your faith and practice…. God has, in that Word, promised to give visions in the ‘last days;’ not for a new rule of faith, but for the comfort of His people…“ Ellen White in A Sketch of the Christian Experience and View of Ellen G. White, p. 64.3 CMH 14.5

Reflect: What are some specific Bible passages or promises that bring you hope? How could you make those promises a greater part of your life? CMH 14.6