I don't know about you friend, but the idea of studying to me has never been my definition of fun. Now don't get me wrong, I'm definitely a book nerd and learning is one of my favorite things. The idea of studying however, not so much. If you look up the word study in the dictionary it is defined as: "a state of contemplation" (Merriam-Webster). I've never thought about it that way before until recently. Studying was always just something you did before a test or a big meeting.
I had this thought while I was reading through the book of Joshua, and it made me stop and think about what it means to study. As well as looking at why studying is important. It all started when I read Joshua 1:8-9. Let's read it together starting with verse 8.
"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" (Joshua 1:8, NLT).
"Study this Book of Instruction continually". What book is being referred to here? The author of Joshua is referring to the Bible. He is instructing believers to continually read and memorize the words found therein. Study the Book continually.... be in a constant state of contemplation as you read through it's pages. Take notes, reread passages that you maybe don't understand the first time. Take time to read through each verse and chapter, allowing the words to saturate deep in your soul.
The word study can also be defined as a careful and extended consideration (Merriam-Webster). As we read through the Bible this is an approach we need to have. Using careful consideration as we read through the words, prayers, and instructions of our Creator written within the pages of the Bible. By understanding the importance of studying the words of our Creator, we are able to better understand the importance of memorizing those words and hiding them deep in your heart. Psalm 119:11 says this,
" I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you" (Psalm 119:11, NLT).
When you draw closer to the Creator, your desire to study His words and instructions often grow as you draw closer to the author. I'm not saying that as you draw closer to God that you will instantly love to study. What I'm trying to say is that as you draw closer to the Creator the desire to know Him more and more will also grow.
As you draw closer to the Creator, the desire to study His words and know more and more about our God will grow. The more you draw close to the Creator the more you discover about yourself. You have been created for a unique purpose and there is a unique plan written for your life. The Creator of the universe looked through creation and knew exactly where you needed to be. Knew exactly what you would look like, sound like, and how you would act long before you where even formed in your mothers womb.
As you draw closer to the Creator, courage and peace among so many other characteristics will also emerge in your life. What an amazing God we serve friends. Circling back to Joshua 1:8-9 we need to look at verse 9.
"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" (Joshua 1:9, NLT).
As you draw closer to the Creator, it is important to remember that our God is with us and He loves us with an everlasting love. God is so good friends! All this to say that, even though studying can be a struggle for all of us at times, learning to enjoy studying and meditating on the Word of God is vital. Not only is it vital in understanding our God more, it is vital in walking out the plans and purposes God has placed on your life.
Draw closer to the Creator friends, and remember God loves you more than you could ever know!
Much love friends,
Alianna
Comments