May 8, 2004

Fully-Integrated Life:
“…holding fast the faithful word…”  (Titus 1:9)
(part three)

We are seeking to understand how to get a grip on the Word….and how to let the Word get a grip on us.

STUDY THE WORD
In the Old Testament, Ezra set his heart to study the Word.  He wanted to know what it said, how to practice it and how to teach it to others:

“…For Ezra had set his heart to study the law of the LORD and to practice it, and to teach His statutes and ordinances in Israel.”
(Ezra 7:10)

In the New Testament, Paul told Timothy to study the Word:

“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth. “ (2 Tim 2:14)

Notice the words: “correctly handles the word of truth.”  In the original text this is a graphic term for a tent-maker like Paul.  It means to cut straight—so that the seams will fit together when it is time to sew it!

Are you learning how the Word fits together?  We need to Study God’s Word.  There are many ways to study.  You can purchase study tools like:

• Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words
• Young’s Analytical Concordance

With these tools you can find the meaning of the Greek and Hebrew Words for yourself!  Most of these study tools are available in Bible Software packages and much can be learned by studying online by using websites like www.bible.org
Your Bible Fellowship Class is a great way to study God’s Word with others and if you still want more, ask your Bible Fellowship Teacher about other small groups that meet throughout the week to study the Word.

PUT IT INTO PRACTICE
Commit to studying the Bible.  Set aside some time each week (at least an hour) to search out special truths and dig deeper into the Word. 

Father,
I want Your Word to grip me.  I know that I need more than little moments to really get a grip on Your Word. 
Show me how to spend extra time digging deep into Your Word.  I want to treasure it in my heart…
In Jesus’ Name, Amen!