Bible Studies

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Essence of the Word

If it’s confession time – I’m guilty. Too many times I open my Bible, read a passage, close my Bible, give myself the thumbs up, and think to myself, I am a good Christian and loyal disciple. I read the passage in my Bible and now I’m ready for my day. Let’s back up to that moment in time. I didn’t open with prayer to invite Jesus to sit with me, I didn’t invite the Holy Spirit to fill me, and I didn’t allow myself to be nourished by the word of God. It was not a Holy moment nor was it a Jesus filled event. It was apparent that my actions were shallow and that my heart and mind were not in it together.

My moment became one of duty instead of one with honor and respect for my Creator. I simply went through the motions with no emotion except pride.

Shame on me for opening my Bible in the first place!

Shame on me for thinking that it was all He deserved!

Shame on me for thinking it was all I deserved.

I know better. I know that going through the motions and setting aside quiet time is not enough to build a strong relationship with Christ. I know I need to feel Him in my heart, mind, body, and soul otherwise I am cheating myself of one of the most valuable possessions I have – the essence of the Word.

I must recognize that the Word of God is just as alive and active in my life today as it was during the time of Adam. If I simply breeze through the writings and not give myself time to absorb it into my mind or to hear His voice, then it undoubtedly will not have time to be consumed and become alive within me. It is like the wind that blows around me. It leaves me feeling dry, empty, and withered. Slow me down Lord so that the essence of the Word is not the wind that blows around me but the very air I breathe.

Written by Brenda Bates

Prayer to the Father:
Father, I allow my life to become so busy that I often forget that I need quiet moments with You in worship. I confess that when my day takes a wrong turn, I immediately call on You for strength, guidance, and wisdom. Please forgive me for taking short cuts when it comes to You. I know that You spend every moment patiently waiting for me to acknowledge You, yet I feel anxious during a simple prayer. Help me to see the countless quiet moments that I can spend with You during the day. Moments while I wait in lines, surf the net, prepare meals, or see the beautiful gifts You provide in nature. I know You are there - I feel Your presence. I desperately need the essence of You. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

My personal thoughts:
Some days I give my husband more attention when he walks in the room than I give Jesus for sacrificing His life for me. My husband gets a hug and kiss; Jesus sometimes receives 5 minutes of a blank stare on the pages of His love letter to me. And then I wonder why I don’t experience His presence throughout the day. If asked, I couldn’t tell you what I read that morning so how could I apply it to my day. Jesus, I’m so sorry for hurrying you in and out of my day. Please sit for awhile and this time I promise to truly listen.

Scripture:
As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him. ~2 Samuel 22:31 NIV

Exercise:
How much time did you spend praying today?

How much time did you spend reading the Bible?

Were you distracted or did you go into a room and shut the door and focus solely on Jesus?

What distracts you while in prayer? Reading the Bible? Experiencing Holy moments?

What do you need to do in your life to enrich your experience and relationship with Jesus?

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