I want to take a break from Zechariah this week and comment on something very important to what all of us need in order to study the Bible effectively. Just as every skilled craftsman has the tools of his trade and some special tools to make his job easier, so we must have the same things in order to get the most out of our Bible study.
The first tool you need is the desire to study the Bible. The devil will do everything in his power to keep you out of God’s word. Most serious Bible students set aside a certain time during the day when they can study without interruptions.
The next tool you need is a Bible translation that is easy for you to read and understand. Here are several that I recommend: New King James Version, The Living Translation, English Standard Version, and the New International Version. Once you decide on the translation you will use, get a Bible with print that is easy for you to see and read. Today, I decided that it was time for me to start using my GIANT PRINT Bible again. Most of us today have our Bibles on our phones.
The sad part of this little article is that with all of the helps and conveniences we have, most of us spend very little time in God’s word. That’s where going to a Bible study group helps. Most churches have Sunday morning and Wednesday evening Bible classes. Some individuals are willing to lead Bible study groups during the week.
I will close with Amos 8:11 12, “Behold, the days are coming,” says the Lord GOD, “That I will send a famine on the land, Not a famine of bread, Nor a thirst for water, But of hearing the words of the LORD. They shall wander from sea to sea, And from north to east; They shall run to and fro, seeking the word of the LORD, But shall not find it.”