6 Motivating Reasons to Study the Bible

As disciples, we know we really should study the Word. And we realize that most of us in this era have no valid excuse for not doing so. Particularly we who read English, with the myriad of free tools and aids available on the internet. Yet somehow, Bible Study (along with prayer) is one thing that we often seem to neglect.

We often tend to see Bible study as a forced and tedious habit. But understanding why Bible study is important can help, and even turn it into a rich and rewarding experience! 

6 reasons to study the Bible

And discover that the Bible is not a boring or tedious book!

1. It is God’s Word to us

The Scriptures are letters from God, written straight to our hearts. If that’s not motivation enough to make us want to read and study them, then we should ask the Lord to help us revive our first love in him!

2. Because we CAN

We often take our availability of Scripture for granted. Yet 250 million people around the world, according to Wycliffe Bible Translators, still need the Scriptures in their own language. And millions more long to own their own Bible. We hold a precious treasure in our hands. Let’s not neglect it!

3. To know the Lord and his message

We can’t really know God or understand his message without studying it. But did you know that the majority of Christians don’t even read their Bible on a regular basis?

The best way to defeat this negative habit is to stop dieting!! On low-calorie diets the stomach gradually reduces and appetite shrinks. But the more food we eat, the more we want. And it’s the same with spiritual food!  So keep your spiritual appetite healthy by feeding it!!

4. To gain wisdom and guidance

We live in a confusing world where lines between black and white seem increasingly blurred. And that’s where God’s Word comes in. It’s alive, active, and sharper than a two-edged sword. Digging into the Scriptures reveals the mind of Christ which can help us slice through, right to the heart of difficult issues – with God’s wisdom.

For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

Hebrews 4:12 ESV

5. It keeps our heart focused

This world’s days are numbered. All its promises of success, wealth fame, and entertainment are fading even as they’re offered. They often exhilarate or bring delight, but they cannot last.

The Bible helps us distinguish between Christ’s eternal kingdom and the momentary things of the world. It keeps our minds and hearts fixed on the eternal things of above. Which build our souls, bring us closer to Christ, and last throughout all eternity!

6. To become true and earnest disciples

There is a big difference between believers and disciples. The true goal of the Christian life is not just believing that Christ exists or trusting that he saves us. True discipleship is becoming more like our Lord and Savior. And living a life worth living, an unwasted life, as John Piper puts it.

Such a life is successful in the Lord’s eyes. As Judy Allen states on Unlocking the Bible, “If we follow Jesus well, we will have lived a successful life.” We may never accomplish much according to this world’s standards, but we will bring joy and glory to our Father! 

But we cannot glorify Christ without knowing him. And we cannot know him without studying his Word. For the Bible is his story. From start to finish, he is found on on every page. 

The Bible is fascinating!

Have you been thinking that Bible study is boring and tedious? The best way to defeat that faulty thinking is to just dig in and do it! Start by concentrating on ONE of the many benefits and keep that uppermost in your mind as you begin the amazing journey of learning to delight in God’s Word!

Bible study is our road map for knowing Christ and following in his footsteps. Without it we cannot find the way.

The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple; the precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart… More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb.

Psalm 19:7-8 ESV

Images: Man holding Bible by Ben White | Bible on bench by Aaron Burden.