Sloppy Spiritual Habits

I spent some time this morning reading other Xanga logs - my daughters' and some they are linked to. Once again I find myself convicted by their passion, their faith, and their eloquence. On the way to work, I thought about how sloppy my spiritual "habits" have become. Part of this, I realize, is focus on other areas of my life (now I understand Paul's caution that those who were single should remain so). But more than that it's just laziness and distraction by worldly things. One step I've already taken to hopefully sharpen my focus in 2006 is buy a daily reading Bible. All the verses are there, but they're arranged in a daily reading format. I'll have finished My Utmost For His Highest, but I'll continue to read Our Daily Bread as a pick-me-up on break at work. As you read this, pray for me that I will walk closer with Him and get deeper into the Word in 2006.

FROM "OUR DAILY BREAD" FOR TODAY:

Profitable Bible study involves more than just opening to a chapter and reading what's there. Here are seven guidelines to help you make the most of your study of the Bible.

1. Set aside a regular time. Unless you schedule it, you'll neglect it.

2. Before you start reading, ask God for help and understanding.

3. Carefully think about what you are reading. Not all of the Bible's treasures lie like pebbles on the surface. To mine the gold, you have to dig.

4. Seek to understand what the author was saying to the first people who read the book or letter before you decide how to apply it today.

5. Write down at least one truth or principle you can put into practice.

6. Try different translations of the Bible. If you find yourself skimming over familiar words, a new translation may focus your mind on the passage in a new way.

7. Don't get discouraged. Some parts of the Bible are more interesting than others, and some you may not understand at all. But there's enough that you can understand, and it will revolutionize your life if you apply it.

Now read today's verses again with these principles in mind. Then try it again tomorrow. You will begin to discover the treasures in the Bible. —Haddon Robinson

(Transferred from Xanga)