Benefits of reading the bible. Why should I read the bible? Why should I study?

Someone asked me: “Why do you read the bible?” I didn’t know how to respond, the question got me off guard.  I’ve never been asked a question like that.   They laughed and thought it was funny that I bothered reading the bible.  I was silent, but in my mind were millions of reasons I read the bible but I just couldn’t put it into words.
How can I explain the wonders, the joy, and the power of the Word of God?   I decided I would search the scriptures so I would be ready next time someone asks- why do you bother reading the bible?

 “ Then we will no longer be immature like children. We won’t be tossed and blown about by every wind of new teaching. We will not be influenced when people try to trick us with lies so clever they sound like the truth.” Eph 4:14

Why should we study the scriptures?
Why should we seek Him?

For I am always thinking of your laws. I meditate on them day and night. I write to you who are God’s children because you know the Father, I have written to you who are mature in the faith because you know Christ, who existed from the beginning. I have written to you whoa re young in the faith because you are strong. God’s word lives in your hearts and you have won your battle with the evil one. 1 John 2:14

 My Exhausting Study of why I study. 🙂

Taken from Scripture, here are just a few of the benefits of continuing to study, obey, and meditate on the Word of God

1. Revives me Ps 119:50-52, Ps 19:7-11
2. Brings me joy Ps 119:50-52
3. Comforts me in my distress Isaiah 51:12, Ps 23. Ps 119
4. Gives me Hope Luke 10:22
5. Refines me Ps 52
6. Gives me life Ps 119:28,  Job 4:3-6
7. Teaches me tPs 119:36
8. Encourages me he Lord’s will Eph 3
9. It is the mirror to my life 1 James 23-25
10. Keeps me standing firm and unshakable in my trials Luke 46:46, Jer 17:7. prov 1:33
11. Blesses me as I live according to it (obedience) James 1:22
12. Power to save my soul James 1:21
13. Teaches me the fear of the Lord- which is the beginning of all wisdom Is66:2. Pr. 9:10. Pr. 111:10 Deut 17:19
14. Leads me along the path that is true and right Hosea 14:9. Ps119:101
15. shows me my sins- pierces my heart Act 2:37
16. Always brings forth fruit and produces a great harvest in our life when we cling to His Word Luke 8:15, Is 55:10
17. keeps me from stumbling Ps 119:65, Prov 6:21
18. Helps us teach what is true 2 Tim 3:16, Hebrews 4:12
19. Shows me all the great and precious promises He has given us. 2Peter 2:1-3
20. Helps me escape the world’s corruption through His Promises which enable me to share His divine nature  2 Peter 1:4
21. Shows me what is wrong in my life 2 Tim 3:15
22. Corrects me when I am wrong and teaches me to do right 2 Tim 3:16
23. Prepares and equips God’s people to every good work 2 Tim 3:17
24. Keeps me from drifting away, keeps me from backsliding Heb 2:1
25. keeps me from sinning ps119:11-15
26. helps me stay pure Ps 119:8
27. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.Romans 1:16,
28. Teaches me wisdom and understanding
29. Reminds me how I should live – forgiving others, loving, getting rid of bitterness,
30. Rids me of my shameful ways – like a sword piercing through bone and marrow Hebrews 4:12
31. Brings success, prosperity  Joshua 1:8,Ps 1:2-3, Jer 17:7-8
32. We live by every word from the mouth of God Matthew 4:4
33. Helps me stand firm in my trials Ps 1:2-3,Luke 6:46, Jer 17:7-8 Rom 5:3-4, Js 1
34. His gracious hand is upon those who study, obey and teach the Word Ezra 7:0
35. Reminds me to repent
36. Gives understanding: the more we study and read, the more understanding He gives us Mat 13:12, Eph 3:3-5
37. Discernment between right and wrong teachings and knowing the difference between truth and those who teach from their false imaginations–so I won’t be tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes Eph 4;14, Ez 13:17 “Now, son of man, speak out against the women who prophesy from their own imaginations. Ephesians 4:14
38. My Sword: Helps me in spiritual warfare, it is my sword of truth in battle, my weapon- the sword, which is the Word of God. Eph 6:17
39. It is the Power of God at work, it is alive and powerful and never comes back void, it burns like a fire in my heart Is 55:10-11, R. 1:16, Heb. 4:12, Jer 20:9
40. His Word accomplishes everything He wants it to Is 55:10-11
41. Shows me how the Lord wants me to live and obey His Words Rev 22:7
42. Source of understanding as I keep searching to understand Him and know Him
43. Increases Faith : Builds my faith Romans 10:17
44. Makes me wiser than my enemies Ps 119:98-99
45. Gives me more insight than my teachers Ps 119:98-99
46. Helps me abandon my shameful ways Ps 119:38
47. Stirs my Spirit
48. Teaches me how to live
49. Opens my eyes to what I need to know
50. Reminds me to teach my children Deut 6:5-9, Deut 32:46, prov 4:4
51. Tells me where I have gone wrong
52. God speaks to me through His Word
53. To know and understand the Warnings He’s given us Malachi 2:2
54. Helps me in prayer! “ if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!” Claim His Promises
55. Lifts me up when I am discouraged Job 4;3-6
56. Reminds me to be strong and courageous for Him Joshua 1
57. Warns me to stay on the right path and listen Heb 12:25
58. Instructs me
59. Teaches me how to live a holy life John 17:17
60. Salvation-The Power of God at word, saving everyone who believes the Good News about Christ- the Jew first and also the Gentile Romans 1:16, 1 Peter1:23, Phil 2:16, Acts 7:38 John 6:68
61. Gives me life, they are not empty words- they are life! John 6:68, Matt 13:22, Deut 32:47, Prov 4:4
62. How we get faith – from hearing the Word- need more faith? Read His Word Rom 10:17
63. His Words bless me Rev 1:3
64. Teaches me the truth and the truth sets me free John 8:31
65. Warns me of times ahead
66. Prepares me for persecution and rejection from others
67. Keeps my heart strong for Him while battling adversity
68. Fills our heart and mind with Godly wisdom and knowledge.
69. It is what the Lord expects us to do- “Haven’t you read the Scriptures” the Lord Jesus asked this 6x in Mathew and 3x in Mark
70. Sets me free James 1:22-25
71. keeps me from being proud Deut 17:20
72. Prevents me from turning away from his commands, even in the smallest way Deut 17:21
73. Teaches me to live a blameless life so I may worship in His Sanctuary Ps 15:1

 Hear the Word of the Lord:

             Your promise revives me; it comforts me in all my troubles. I meditate on your age-old regulations; O Lord, they comfort me. Don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.  For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror.  You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like.  But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it. How can a young person stay pure? By obeying your word. I have tried hard to find you— don’t let me wander from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. I praise you, O Lord; teach me your decrees. I have recited aloud all the regulations you have given us. I have rejoiced in your laws as much as in riches. I will study your commandments and reflect on your ways. I will delight in your decrees and not forget your word (Ps 119:7-16, Ps 119:50-52, James 1:22-25, Ps 119:2)

For the gracious hand of his God was on him. This was because Ezra had determined to study and obey the Law of the Lord and to teach those decrees and regulations to the people of Israel. Ezra 7:10

Instructions from Deuteronomy: He must always keep that copy with him and read it daily as long as he lives. That way he will learn to fear the Lord his God by obeying all the terms of these instructions and decrees.  This regular reading will prevent him from becoming proud and acting as if he is above his fellow citizens. It will also prevent him from turning away from these commands in the smallest way. And it will ensure that he and his descendants will reign for many generations in Israel. Deut. 17: 18-21

  Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

PROMISE: “The Lord your God will then make you successful in everything you do. He will give you many children and numerous livestock, and he will cause your fields to produce abundant harvests, for the Lord will again delight in being good to you as he was to your ancestors.  The Lord your God will delight in you if you obey his voice and keep the commands and decrees written in this Book of Instruction, and if you turn to the Lord your God with all your heart and soul.“This command I am giving you today is not too difficult for you to understand, and it is not beyond your reach. Duet 30: 9-11

Listen to Him

 Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God. But you don’t listen because you don’t belong to God.” So we must listen very carefully to the truth we have heard, or we may drift away from it. Be careful that you do not refuse to listen to the One who is speaking. Seek the LORD while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near. To those who listen to my teaching, more understanding will be given, and they will have an abundance of knowledge. But for those who are not listening, even what little understanding they have will be taken away from them.  Matthew 13:11-13, John 8:47, Heb 2:1, Heb 12:25, Rev 1:3, is 55:6

Remain in His Word: But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!  Ps 119:10, John 15:7, 1Peter1:25, Ps 119:28

Delight in the Law. Meditate on it Day and Night: But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do. Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. The instructions of the Lord are perfect, reviving the soul.The decrees of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The commandments of the Lord are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are clear, giving insight for living. Reverence for the Lord is pure,lasting forever. The laws of the Lord are true; each one is fair. They are more desirable than gold, even the finest gold. They are sweeter than honey, even honey dripping from the comb. They are a warning to your servant, a great reward for those who obey them Joyful are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts. Ps 119:2, Ps 1:1-3, Josh 1:8, Ps 19:7-11 

Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Those who love your instructions have great peace and do not stumble.119:65. 105

 ⁴ But Jesus told him, “No! The Scriptures say, People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’ I will show you what it’s like when someone comes to me, listens to my teaching, and then follows it.  It is like a person building a house who digs deep and lays the foundation on solid rock. When the floodwaters rise and break against that house, it stands firm because it is well built. ⁴⁹ But anyone who hears and doesn’t obey is like a person who builds a house without a foundation. When the floods sweep down against that house, it will collapse into a heap of ruins.” Luke 6:46-49, matt 4:4

¹ Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. ³² And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! John 15:7, John 8:31

 ¹⁶ All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. ¹God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.Romans 1:16, Eph 6:17, Heb 4:122 Tim 3:16

 He must always keep that copy with him and read it daily as long as he lives. That way he will learn to fear the Lord his God by obeying all the terms of these instructions and decrees. D 17:9

My heart is broken because of the false prophets, and my bones tremble. I stagger like a drunkard, like someone overcome by wine, because of the holy words the Lord has spoken against them.

 

Let God’s truth renew you today

 

And now the prize awaits me; the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.

– 2 Timothy 4: 8

 His Truth
God’s word sanctifies you. His truth preserves you, sets you free and will lead you into godliness. God’s truth casts down wrong doctrines, arguments, and every high thing that exalts itself against God. It is through His truth, which is His Word, that we bring every thought into captivity to Christ.

You see, you trusted after you heard the truth and you believed, then were sealed with the Holy Spirit. No one can snatch you from His Hand. No one , no circumstance can every separate you from God’s love for you.

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. – 2 Timothy 3: 16

 

Remember:

• You can do all things through Christ, He strengthens you
• You are no longer a slave to sin – you must master any sin trying to take over your life and subdue it.
• Do not be an instrument of unrighteousness.
• Sin will not have dominion over you. Are you a slave to a sin? What do you obey? What has dominion over you?
• Do not obey the lusts of the flesh, but follow the leading of the Holy Spirit.
• Trust in Him in all your ways and He will direct you in the path you are going. If you at crossroads, you must stop- consider the roads before you and ask God for direction. He will lead you in the right way and when you follow His leading, you will have peace.
• Put on all your armor, He has equipped you for battle.
• Stand firm in your faith and He will make you firm. Set your mind to serve the law of God and not the law of sin.

Be renewed in the spirit of your mind, your inner man. Keep a close check on the thoughts you allow in. Put on the new man created according to God- holy and right and put away lying, hatred, unforgiveness, fighting, selfishness, covetous, complaining, jealousy, revenge, lust, laziness. Don’t be lazy. Do not grieve the Holy Spirit. Always be kind to others, patient, putting others first, quick to forgive, tenderhearted and always doing your best to be a peacemaker. Being a peacemaker doesn’t mean being a peacemaker when all is well for you, but in times when peace seems impossible- here is where you need to work hard to maintain peace. That is your calling.

Dear Lord,

    Remind me that my days are numbered and life is short. I am but a frail vapor , like a shadow. I trust only in you, even though others heap up riches , fame, desires of the flesh- yet all my hope , my desire and my trust is in you.
      Deliver me from my sins and do not put me to shame, for I trust in you. Make me beautiful forever in your eyes. Save me and deliver me from what the enemy tries to scheme. Put a wall of protection around me and all my family. Protect us from all evil. Raise up bars and gates so the enemy can not come in.  I bless those who speak against me, but remember their actions and see how I have obeyed your word. Bless my life and restore unto me 70times70 what the enemy has stolen.  
          Give ear to my cry, I wait patiently for the Lord. You pulled me up from the terrible pit and I delighted in you O God. You delivered me and I will tell others of your goodness, righteousness, lovingkindess and salvation.

  Your laws and righteousness are always in my heart.
In Jesus name,Amen 

 

My friends,  be strong through the grace that God gives you in Christ Jesus.

Eph 6:14, Ps 40:11, John 8:32, wph 4:15, Titus 1:1, 2 Cor 10;15, Eph 1″14, Jere 10, Phil 4:13, Romans 6:6,12,14, Ps 39-40, Eph 4, 2 Timothy 2:1

Put on your Armor Today- Eph 6, How to really put on your armor

Sometimes we  get so wrapped up in  the study of spiritual warfare that we forget to apply it properly to our lives. We may imagine it is on us, we may pretend to put it on each morning, but this isn’t pretend and this isn’t only about how we think.  To put on our armor of protection and to have our Sword in our hand,  we need to walk a certain way. We must be doers of God’s word, not just a hearer of God’s word.

Some of us wake up, pretend our super Christian armor is on us, and head out the door. We listen to filthy music, get on the phone and start to gossip, grumble about life, worry and fret over worst case scenarios, curse at people who can’t drive or park, we lie, use filthy words, steal, cheat, have horrible thought lives and make excuses for sins in our life – wasting time on social media and hours of filthy ungodly entertainment. Who are we kidding? Surely, ourselves.

Today I wanted to REMIND you to protect yourself from the devils attacks and lies that try to pull you away from the Lord , to get you suited up in full armor and have your Sword ready.

Live today in God’s righteousness and peace. Stay away from evil- watch your words, your thoughts, your actions.  Let all you do today glorify God. What are you listening to? Don’t gossip! Don’t start arguments, forgive others and do all you can to live in peace today.

Righteousness and Peace have kissed each other! Ps 85:10
Yes! That is your supernatural protection – you chose it by the way you live.

How do you live in peace and righteousness? You must know the truth, that is God’s word. Open it up today and begin to hear and be lead by the Spirit of Wisdom and Truth.This truth will also build your faith. You will know and understand that no weapon formed against you shall prosper and every word or attack that comes upon you will not prosper for this is the heritage of the saints of the Lord.

And…for those of you who are under attack and trials now, God says to put your trust in Him fully. Tell Him what you need and the Lord promises to put a guard of great peace around your heart and mind as you trust in Him. – See! That is part of your shield and your helmet-God’s word is what you can trust and hope in.

Your protection and your weapon are based on God’s word- and prayer.

Live a godly life based on God’s word and you will have the protection you need today. Don’t fool yourself and think you can keep living in sin, causing problems, fighting with others and living in other nonsense and then pretend to put on put on your armor. It doesn’t work that way.

Directions: Pray! Behave! Believe! Read and Meditate on God’s word- read it, speak it, believe it, live it!

I read  this early this morning, this is good scripture to think and meditate on today
Proverbs 4  

 Get wisdom; develop good judgment.
    Don’t forget my words or turn away from them.
 Don’t turn your back on wisdom, for she will protect you.
    Love her, and she will guard you.
 Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do!
    And whatever else you do, develop good judgment.
 If you prize wisdom, she will make you great.
    Embrace her, and she will honor you.
 She will place a lovely wreath on your head;
    she will present you with a beautiful crown.”

My child, listen to me and do as I say,
    and you will have a long, good life.
 I will teach you wisdom’s ways
    and lead you in straight paths.
 When you walk, you won’t be held back;
    when you run, you won’t stumble.
Take hold of my instructions; don’t let them go.
    Guard them, for they are the key to life.
Don’t do as the wicked do,

    and don’t follow the path of evildoers.
 Don’t even think about it; don’t go that way.
    Turn away and keep moving.
 For evil people can’t sleep until they’ve done their evil deed for the day.
    They can’t rest until they’ve caused someone to stumble.
 They eat the food of wickedness
    and drink the wine of violence!

The way of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn,
    which shines ever brighter until the full light of day.
But the way of the wicked is like total darkness.
    They have no idea what they are stumbling over.

 My child, pay attention to what I say.
    Listen carefully to my words.
 Don’t lose sight of them.
    Let them penetrate deep into your heart,
 for they bring life to those who find them,
    and healing to their whole body.

 Guard your heart above all else,
    for it determines the course of your life.

 Avoid all perverse talk;
    stay away from corrupt speech.

 Look straight ahead,
    and fix your eyes on what lies before you.
 Mark out a straight path for your feet;
    stay on the safe path.
 Don’t get sidetracked;
    keep your feet from following evil.

 

Yes, Amen….Don’t get sidetracked.

Walk in peace and righteousness today, decide to fill your heart and mind with God’s word and whatever you do….guard your lips, your feet and your heart from all evil. Yes, be simple to what is evil and be wise to what is good.

 

Prayer of Ephesians 2

Dear Father in Heaven, Creator of Heaven and Earth,

Thank you for your love for me and your great mercy. I was once dead in my sins when I formally walked in the way of the world according to the prince of the power of the air and the spirit who worked in my disobedience,  I went against YOU O Lord by following my own wants, my own lusts, my own desires, whatever my mind sought, but You O Lord, reached out your hand and called me to You – even when I was dead in my transgressions.  You made me Alive together with Christ and raised me up with Him, You have seated me in the heavenly places with Christ Jesus – this is too amazing to understand.

Oh Lord, I am silenced at your amazing Power and Holiness, what an honor and blessing to be before your heavenly throne to talk to you, to praise you and to be in Your presence. Thank you for your mercy and love for me. Thank you for showing me the riches of your grace and  kindness in Christ Jesus.

I know it is only by your grace, mercy and love that I can say that I know you and you have redeemed my life, you have saved me in my faith, and this faith was your gift to me – and it wasn’t because I was something special or any special work or steps I took, but it was only because of your gracious gift.

I am Your workmanship, I praise you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous–how well I know it. Speak to my heart and lead me in doing the good works  that I was created to do in Christ Jesus- all my steps that God prepared for my life , Lord let my feet stay on your planned path.

For once I was unclean and common, but now I am an heir in Christ, part of the family of the Lord God. I praise you O Lord for considering me. I remember that I was once separated from Christ and not included as a part of the family of Israel, I was a stranger to your covenant and I had no hope for  I was without God in this world.

But today I can lift my hands and Praise the Lord, for though I was far off, I have been brought near  by the blood of Christ.  O Lord, I praise you, for He Himself is my peace- He has made me one as part of His Holy family, breaking down the barrier wall that divided us.

By your Holy Spirit I have access to you O God, I am in awe at your love for me. Thank you for making me part of Your household, thank you for making me a fellow citizen with the saints. Lord, teach me and lead me to live a life that is pleasing to you.  Keep me from anything that would grieve you.

May my life be a stone in the temple of God in Christ as we are being built together into a dwelling of God in the Spirit.

I will meditate on all Your gifts and benefits all day, I stand amazed at your love and care for me. Thank you O God , for making me part of your Holy Family in Christ Jesus.  Let my life sing your praises and be a testimony of Christ, for He is way, the truth and the life and no man can go to you O God but by your chosen son Jesus, may all the world know this truth.

In Christ, I pray, Amen