Counsel of Spiritual Life

Counsel #4 — Priorities

Picture: Counsel #4 — Priorities CSL 30.1

People have plenty of excuses for not studying the Bible every day, such as “no time,” “can’t understand it,” “no motivation,” “too tired.” Like every valuable practice, we must simply decide that we will read the Bible daily for spiritual strength, just as we eat food daily for physical strength. CSL 30.2

It’s important to pray before opening God’s Word. Ask Him for focus and motivation, for wisdom to understand, for comfort from the passage and an ability to see Jesus’ love on every page, not just to “put in time.” CSL 30.3

Here are some suggestions you might consider beneficial to gain more from your Bible study: Try a modern translation of the Bible. Read first thing in the morning before you start your day. Journal or take notes as you read. Try writing prayers to God inspired by your reading.^[26] CSL 30.4

“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it.” Joshua 1:8 NKJV CSL 30.5

“Never should the Bible be studied without prayer.” Ellen White in Ye Shall Receive Power, p. 115 CSL 30.6

Reflect: What do you pray for before studying your Bible? CSL 30.7