This is our third lesson in becoming a Balanced Beauty. In the last two lessons we have established important truths about our sin and our identity in Christ.We have begun 2 essential habits – Putting off our sin and putting on godly attitudes and actions as well as committing to daily scripture memory – with a focus on our identity in Christ.
In addition to these important habits, we are going to talk about another vital part of our day – reading, studying and applying God’s Word.
Not only does the memorization and meditation of God’s promises help draw us out of the darkness and the lies of this world, but the actual in-depth study and application of His Word allows more and more light to penetrate into our lives.
A quick read over a passage does little to help dispel the darkness. However, when we truly dig into the living, Holy scriptures and learn how to apply them to our life, true change and mindset shifts happen.
The Bible is living, active and sharper than a double edged sword.It teaches, instructs, convicts, heals, encourages, comforts and moves us towards the life God desires for us.
It is not one more thing to add to an already busy day – but THE most important aspect to set aside time for!
We would never consider going a day without food, unless fasting for spiritual or medical purposes.Food to the body is what God’s Word is to the soul.By going day after day without nourishing our soul, we will starve spiritually.We will begin to resemble more of the world and less of Christ.We will begin to go our own way and stifle the Spirit’s guidance in our lives.
Get Balanced
When we know we are God’s friend and realize that He has a message for us in His living Word, we will have an increasing desire to study and learn what this message means to us.We will do all we can to find time to get to know our our Heavenly Father.When we read and study out of duty or to check it off a list we miss out on a beautiful relationship He wants to develop with us.
If you struggle finding time for this essential part of your day, ask God to increase your hunger for more of Him and His Word. He will show you the time and help you prioritize your day.
Take Away
Bible study is an essential aspect of a Christian’s life.Without it we miss out on the blessing of peace, joy and the abundant life He desires us to live.
Scripture
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”2 Timothy 3:16-17 NIV
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”Romans 12:2 NIV
Action Step
If you are not already studying the Bible, choose a book of the Bible to begin studying.The gospels are great books to start with; Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. These are some more good options to start with – short books with a lot of great applications:Galations, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians and James.Study a portion of the book at a time until you have completed the whole book.
If you need help studying the Bible, you can use the free Bible study journaling pages I have available here. Thre is also a full journal you can purchase here.These journaling pages will guide you through 3 questions to pull out life applications as you study a passage scripture.
Habit
Commit to studying the Bible each day. Find a buddy. Share with each other what you are learning.Make sure to check in with each other often and pray for one another. Accountability is so important and a huge key in making lasting change!
Becoming a Balanced Beauty
If you haven’t read the previous lessons, go back and and start there. This is a step by step process in becoming balanced and beautiful from the inside out.