Contents SESSION ONE. Introduction: Spiritual Maturity and Habits..pg. 3. How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible.pg. 7

Transcription

1 Contents SESSION ONE Introduction: Spiritual Maturity and Habits..pg. 3 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible.pg. 7 The Habit of a Daily Time With God pg. 29 SESSION TWO The Habit of Prayer: Talking With God pg. 37 The Habit of Tithing: Giving Back to God pg. 45 The Habit of Fellowship: Enjoying God s Family.pg. 51 How to Start and Maintain Good Habits pg.61

2 Introduction 201 Page 2

3 Introduction 201 Page 3 WELCOME TO BASE CLASS 201 COMMITTING TO SPIRITUAL MATURITY We're glad you signed up! This class is the second of New Beginnings four basic classes. THE PURPOSE OF THIS CLASS: Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. Ephesians 4:14-15 THE FOCUS OF THIS CLASS: We will focus on the Four Basic Habits every Christian needs to develop in order to grow to spiritual maturity. WHAT IS "SPIRITUAL MATURITY"? until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. Ephesians 4:13 Spiritual Maturity is Being like Jesus! For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. Romans 8:29 A student is not above his teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like his teacher. Luke 6:40 DISCIPLE DEFINED The word disciple designates a learner or follower, as in the sense of an apprentice, and always implies the existence of a personal attachment which shapes the whole life of the one described. (Gerhard Kittel, ed., Theological Dictionary of the New Testament) JESUS DEFINITION OF A DISCIPLE Is willing to deny self, take up a cross, and follow Him (Luke 9:23-25) Puts Christ before self, family, and possessions (Luke 14:25-35) Is committed to Christ s teachings (John 8:31) Is committed to world evangelism (Matthew 9:36-38) Loves others as Christ loves (John 13:34-35) Abides in Christ, is obedient, bears fruit, glorifies God, has joy and loves the brethren (John 15:7-17)

4 Introduction MAKING DISCIPLES IS A PROCESS Disciples are first _born, then they are _made. 1. IT'S NOT AUTOMATIC FACTS ABOUT SPIRITUAL MATURITY In fact, though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you the elementary truths of God s word all over again. You need milk, not solid food! Hebrews 5: IT IS A PROCESS But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 2 Peter 3:18 3. IT TAKES DISCIPLINE Train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come. 1 Timothy 4:7 I cannot be a disciple without being _disciplined. UNDERSTANDING DISCIPLESHIP The mark of a disciple is cross bearing. (Jesus) "Anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple." Luke 14:27 There are no crown bearers in heaven that were not cross bearers here below. - Spurgeon How often am I to do this? Daily (Jesus) "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me." Luke 9:23 What is involved in "cross bearing"? Whatever it takes to give Christ first place in my life! The cross we carry is never so heavy as the chains from which we are freed. J.A. Lacey 201 Page 4

5 Introduction FOUR HABITS OF A DISCIPLE HOW CAN I BECOME A MATURE DISCIPLE? Develop_Habits "... You have put off the old self with its HABITS, and have put on the new self... which God is continually renewing in his own image, to bring you to a full knowledge of himself." Col. 3: TIME WITH GOD'S WORD "If you continue in my Word, then you are my disciples indeed. And you will know the truth and the truth will set you free." John 8: PRAYER If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. This is to my Father s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. John 15: TITHING In the same way, any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple. Luke 14:33 4. FELLOWSHIP A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. John 13:34-35 THE DISCIPLE'S CROSS 201 Page 5 P R A Y TITHING FELLOWSHIP R T H E W O R D

6 Introduction DEFINITIONS OF "HABIT": (Webster's II Dictionary) "A continual, often unconscious inclination to do a certain activity, acquired through frequent repetition." An established disposition of the character. Sow a thought, reap an act. Sow an act, reap a habit. Sow a habit, reap a character. Sow a character, reap a destiny." "A customary practice" THE GOAL OF THIS CLASS I will commit to the habits necessary for spiritual maturity. 201 Page 6

7 HOW TO GET A GRASP ON YOUR BIBLE All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17

8 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible THE NATURE OF SCRIPTURE The sixty-six books of the Bible were written over a period of 1500 years by more than forty people who came from all walks of life. The Bible covers the whole span of history, from the creation of the heavens and the earth to their re-creation into the new heavens and new earth. It is a book written by real people, about real people, containing actual events and reliable truth. The Old Testament writers wrote in Hebrew and some Aramaic. The New Testament was recorded in Koine (common) Greek. Why should I study the Bible? 1. The Bible is infallible. The entire Bible, in its original autographs, has no errors. Human writers authored the Bible under the Divine guidance and inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Matthew 5:17; Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them. 2. The Bible is inerrant and complete. The Bible is not only infallible in total, but is also inerrant in its parts. Nothing needs to be added or deleted; in fact there is an eternal penalty for attempting either. Revelation 22:18, 19 Matthew 5:18; I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. Matthew 24:35; Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away. 3. The Bible is effective. Hebrews 4:12; For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Listen to the words of Isaiah 55:10, 11; As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. 201 Page 8

9 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible 4. The Bible is authoritative and sufficient. Since the Bible is perfect and complete, then it is the last Word- the final authority for our faith and conduct. 2 Timothy 3:16b, 17; All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. 5. The Bible is the Word of God calling for faith and obedience. Isaiah 1:2 Hear, O heavens! Listen, O earth! For the LORD has spoken When God speaks everything and everyone listens, because He is the final authority. The word of God demands a response. John 8:30,31 Even as he spoke, many put their faith in him. To the Jews who had believed Him, Jesus said, If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. James 1:25 But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it- he will be blessed in what he does. We have adequately addressed the WHY and WHERE, so let us turn our attention to the HOW. 201 Page 9

10 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible SIX WAYS TO GET A GRASP ON YOUR BIBLE The Hand Illustration On this page trace an outline of your own hand! Study Acts 17:11 (middle finger) Memorize Psalm 119:2-11 (first finger) Read Rev. 1:3 (fourth finger) Meditate Psalm 1:2-3 (thumb) Hear Romans 10:17 (little finger) Apply the Word (palm) I. HOW TO HEAR GOD'S WORD Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ. Romans 10:17 Ways to Hear God's Word The Bible on tape Church services & studies Sermon tapes Radio/TV teachers PROBLEM: We forget 95 % of what we hear after 72 hours. 201 Page 10

11 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible 1. Be ready and eager to hear God. HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR HEARING (Jesus) "He who has ears to hear, let him hear!" Luke 8:8 How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! Psalm 119: Deal with attitudes that prevent hearing God (Luke 8:4-15) "Consider carefully how you listen..." Luke 8:18 - A Closed Mind: Is fear, pride or bitterness preventing me from hearing God? - A Superficial Mind: Am I really serious about wanting to hear God speak? - A Preoccupied Mind: Am I too busy and concerned with other things to concentrate on what God has to say? 3. Confess any sin in your life. "... Get rid of all moral filth and humbly accept the Word planted in you which can save you. James 1:21 4. Take notes on what you hear. We must pay more careful attention to what we've heard, so that we do not drift away! Heb. 2:1 5. Act on what you hear! Keep a Spiritual Notebook Do not merely listen to the Word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says!" James 1:22 But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it he will be blessed in what he does. James 1:25 Application: Circle one of the 5 ways you can improve your hearing. Do it within the next 72 hours. 201 Page 11

12 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible II. HOW TO READ GOD'S WORD Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near. Revelation 1:3 How often should I read God's Word? Daily "(The Scriptures) shall be his constant companion. He must read from it everyday of his life so that he will learn to respect the Lord his God by obeying all of his commands." Deut. 17:19 (LB) SUGGESTIONS Read the Bible systematically. Read a Bible without notes. Read it in different translations. For reading: Good News, Living Bible, New Living Translation, The Message Read it aloud quietly to yourself. Underline or color code key verses. Choose a reading plan and stick with it. DID YOU KNOW If you read approximately 15 minutes a day, you can read through the Bible once a year. You could read through the entire Bible in 72 hours if you listen to the Bible on tape. It is possible in 5 minutes each day to read the entire Bible in 3 years. BIBLE READING PLANS 1. You could read 3 chapters each day and 5 each Sunday and finish the Bible in a year. 2. You could read 3 chapters in the Old Testament and 3 in the New Testament and you will read the Old Testament through once and the New Testament 4 times in a year. 3. You could read through the New Testament in 30 days by reading approximately 9 chapters per day. 4. You could read an equal number of chapters starting in three places: Genesis, Job, and Matthew. 5. Consider reading between one and five chapters per day. This keeps you from feeling pressure to read speedily and helps you to allow the Word to penetrate your thoughts and life. 6. Consider reading the 1-year Bible. 7. Consider using a plan given on the next few pages. The goal is not to get through the scriptures but for the scriptures to get through us. -John Ortberg 201 Page 12

13 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible A BIBLE READING PLAN THROUGH THE NEW TESTAMENT IN 30 DAYS Through The New Testament In 30 Days q 1. Matthew 1-9 q 16. Acts q 2. Matthew q 17. Acts q 3. Matthew q 18. Romans 1-8 q 4. Matthew q 19. Romans 9-16 q 5. Mark 1-8 q Corinthians 1-9 q 6. Mark 9-16 q Corinthians q 7. Luke 1-6 q Corinthians 1-13 q 8. Luke 7-11 q 23. Galatians Ephesians q 9. Luke q 24. Philippians 2 Thessalonians q 10. Luke q Timothy Philemon q 11. John 1-7 q 26. Hebrews q 12. John 8-13 q 27. James 2 Peter q 13. John q John Jude q 14. Acts 1-7 q 29. Revelation 1-11 q 15. Acts 8-14 q 30. Revelation Page 13

14 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible Reading through the Bible in a Year JANUARY OLD TESTAMENT NEW TESTAMENT Genesis 1:1-3:24 1 Matthew 1: Genesis 4:1-6:8 2 Matthew 2: Genesis 6:9-8:22 3 Matthew 3: Genesis 9:1-11:26 4 Matthew 4: Job 1:1-3:26 5 Matthew 4:28-5:16 5 Job 4:1-7:21 6 Matthew 5: Job 8:1-10:22 7 Matthew 5:38-6:18 7 Job 11:1-14:22 8 Matthew 6: Job 15:1-17:16 9 Matthew 7: Job 18:1-19:29 10 Matthew 7:24-8:17 10 Job 10:1-21:34 11 Matthew 8:18-9:8 11 Job 22:1-24:25 12 Matthew 9: Job 25:1-28:28 13 Matthew 9:35-10:15 13 Job 29:1-31:40 14 Matthew 10:16-11:1 14 Job 32:1-34:37 15 Matthew 11: Job 35:1-37:24 16 Matthew 11:25-12:21 16 Job 38:1-39:30 17 Matthew 12: Job 40:1-42:17 18 Matthew 12: Genesis 11:27-14:24 19 Matthew 13: Genesis 15:1-17:27 20 Matthew 13: Genesis 18:1-19:38 21 Matthew 13: Genesis 20:1-22:24 22 Matthew 14: Genesis 23:1-24:27 23 Matthew 14:22-15:11 23 Genesis 24:28-25:18 24 Matthew 15: Genesis 25:19-27:29 25 Matthew 16: Genesis 27:30-29:35 26 Matthew 16:21-17:13 26 Genesis 30:1-31:18 27 Matthew 17: Genesis 31:19-32:32 28 Matthew 18: Genesis 33:1-35:29 29 Matthew 18:21-19:12 29 Genesis 36:1-37:36 30 Matthew 19: Genesis 38:1-40:23 31 Matthew 19:27-20:16 31 MARCH OLD TESTAMENT NEW TESTAMENT Leviticus 13: Mark 7:24-8:10 1 Leviticus 14: Mark 8: Leviticus 15:1-16:34 3 Mark 8:31-9:13 3 Leviticus 17:1-19:37 4 Mark 9: Leviticus 20:1-22:16 5 Mark 9:33-10:12 5 Leviticus 22:17-24:9 6 Mark 10: Leviticus 24:10-25:55 7 Mark 10: Leviticus 26:1-27:34 8 Mark 11: Numbers 1:1-2:34 9 Mark 11:27-12:17 9 Numbers 3:1-4:20 10 Mark 12: Numbers 4:21-5:31 11 Mark 12:28-13:13 11 Numbers 6:1-7:53 12 Mark 13: Numbers 7:54-9:23 13 Mark 14: Numbers 10:1-11:35 14 Mark 14: Numbers 12:1-14:25 15 Mark 14: Numbers 14:26-15:41 16 Mark 15: Numbers 16:1-17:13 17 Mark 15: Numbers 18:1-20:13 18 Mark 16: Numbers 20:14-22:1 19 John 1: Numbers 22:2-23:26 20 John 1: Numbers 23:27-26:18 21 John 2: Numbers 26:19-27:23 22 John 3: Numbers 28:1-29:40 23 John 3: Numbers 30:1-31:54 24 John 4: Numbers 32:1-33:49 25 John 4: Numbers 33:50-36:13 26 John 5: Deuteronomy 1:1-2:37 27 John 5:31-6:13 27 Deuteronomy 3:1-4:49 28 John 6: Deuteronomy 5:1-7:11 29 John 6: Deuteronomy 7:12-9:29 30 John 7: Deuteronomy 10:1-11:32 31 John 7: FEBRUARY OLD TESTAMENT NEW TESTAMENT Genesis 41:1-42:17 1 Matthew 20: Genesis 42:18-44:17 2 Matthew 21: Genesis 44:18-46:27 3 Matthew 21: Genesis 46:28-48:22 4 Matthew 22: Genesis 49:1-50:26 5 Matthew 22: Exodus 1:1-2:25 6 Matthew 23: Exodus 3:1-4:31 7 Matthew 23: Exodus 5:1-7:13 8 Matthew 24: Exodus 7:14-9:35 9 Matthew 24: Exodus 10:1-12:20 10 Matthew 25: Exodus 12:21-14:14 11 Matthew 25: Exodus 14:15-15:27 12 Matthew 26: Exodus 16:1-18:27 13 Matthew 26: Exodus 19:1-21:27 14 Matthew 26: Exodus 21:28-24:18 15 Matthew 27: Exodus 25:1-26:37 16 Matthew 27: Exodus 27:1-28:43 17 Matthew 27:57-28:20 17 Exodus 29:1-30:21 18 Mark 1: Exodus 30:22-33:6 19 Mark 1: Exodus 33:7-34:26 20 Mark 2: Exodus 34:27-36:7 21 Mark 2:23-3:19 21 Exodus 36:8-38:31 22 Mark 3:20-4:9 22 Exodus 39:1-40:38 23 Mark 4: Leviticus 1:1-4:21 24 Mark 4:35-5:20 24 Leviticus 4:22-6:30 25 Mark 5: Leviticus 7:1-8:36 26 Mark 6: Leviticus 9:1-10:20 27 Mark 6: Leviticus 11:1-12:8 28 Mark 7: APRIL OLD TESTAMENT NEW TESTAMENT Deuteronomy 12:1-14:21 1 John 7:53-8:20 1 Deuteronomy 14:22-16:17 2 John 8: Deuteronomy 16:18-19:21 3 John 8: Deuteronomy 20:1-22:5 4 John 9: Deuteronomy 22:6-24:22 5 John 9: Deuteronomy 25:1-27:26 6 John 10: Deuteronomy 28: John 10: Deuteronomy 29:1-31:13 8 John 11: Deuteronomy 31:14-32:47 9 John 11: Deuteronomy 32:48-34:12 10 John 11:54-12:19 10 Joshua 1:1-3:17 11 John 12:20-36a 11 Joshua 4:1-6:27 12 John 12:36b Joshua 7:1-8:35 13 John 13: Joshua 9:1-10:27 14 John 13:31-14:14 14 Joshua 10:28-12:24 15 John 14: Joshua 13:1-15:12 16 John 15: Joshua 15:13-17:18 17 John 16: Joshua 18:1-19:51 18 John 16: Joshua 20:1-22:20 19 John 17: Joshua 22:21-24:33 20 John 18: Judges 1:1-3:11 21 John 18: Judges 3:12-5:31 22 John 19: Judges 6:1-7:25 23 John 19: Judges 8:1-9:29 24 John 20: Judges 9:30-11:11 25 John 20:24-21:14 25 Judges 11:12-13:25 26 John 21: Judges 14:1-16:22 27 Luke 1: Judges 16:23-18:31 28 Luke 1: Judges 19:1-20:23 29 Luke 1: Judges 20:24-21:25 30 Luke 2: Page 14

15 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible MAY OLD TESTAMENT NEW TESTAMENT 1 Samuel 1:1-2:36 1 Luke 2: Samuel 3:1-5:12 2 Luke 3: Samuel 6:1-7:14 3 Luke 3:21-4: Samuel 7:15-10:8 4 Luke 4: Samuel 10:9-12:25 5 Luke 4:31-5: Samuel 13:1-14:35 6 Luke 5: Samuel 14:36-15:35 7 Luke 5:27-6:11 7 Ruth 1:1-2:23 8 Luke 6: Ruth 3:1-4:22, 1 Samuel 16: Luke 6:39-7: Samuel 17:1-18:5 10 Luke 7: Samuel 18:6-19:24 11 Luke 7: Samuel 20:1-21:15 12 Luke 8: Samuel 22:1-23:29 13 Luke 8: Samuel 24:1-25:44 14 Luke 8: Samuel 26:1-28:25 15 Luke 9: Samuel 29:1-31:13, I 16 Luke 9: Chronicles 10:1-14 I Chronicles 1:1-2:41 17 Luke 9: I Chronicles 2:42-5:10 18 Luke 9:57-10:16 18 I Chronicles 5:11-6:81 19 Luke 10: I Chronicles 7:1-9:9 20 Luke 10:38-11:13 20 I Chronicles 9:10-44, 11: Luke 11: I Chronicles 12:1-14:17 22 Luke 11: I Chronicles 15:1-16:43 23 Luke 12: I Chronicles 17:1-19:19 24 Luke 12: I Chronicles 20:1-23:1 25 Luke 12: Samuel 1:1-2:32 26 Luke 13: Samuel 3:1-5:10 27 Luke 13: Samuel 5:11-7:29 28 Luke 14: Samuel 8:1-11:13 29 Luke 14:25-15: Samuel 11:14-13:22 30 Luke 15: Samuel 13:23-15:12 31 Luke 16: JULY OLD TESTAMENT NEW TESTAMENT Psalms 82:1-86:17 1 Acts 9: Psalms 87:1-89:52 2 Acts 9: Psalms 90:1-93:55 3 Acts 10:1-23a 3 Psalms 94:1-98:9 4 Acts 10:23b-48 4 Psalms 99:1-102:28 5 Acts 11: Psalms 103:1-105:15 6 Acts 11:27-12:25 6 Psalms 105:16-106:48 7 Acts 13: Psalms 107:1-108:13 8 Acts 13: Psalms 109:1-113:9 9 Acts 13: Psalms 114:1-118:29 10 Acts 14: Psalms 119: Acts 15: Psalms 119: Acts 15:22-16:5 12 Psalms 120:1-127:5 13 Acts 16: Psalms 128:1-134:3 14 Acts 16: Psalms 135:1-138:8 15 Acts 17: Psalms 139:1-142:7 16 Acts 17: Psalms 143:1-146:10 17 Acts 18: Psalms 147:1-150:6 18 Acts 18:24-19: Kings 2:12-3:28 19 Acts 19: Kings 4:1-6:22 20 Acts 20: Kings 6:23-7:51 21 Acts 20: Kings 8: Acts 21: Kings 9:1-11:13 23 Acts 21: Kings 11:14-43, 2 Chronicles 24 Acts 21:37-22: :1-2:18 2 Chronicles 3:1-6:11 25 Acts 22:22-23: Chronicles 6:12-7:22 26 Acts 23: Chronicles 8:1-9:31 27 Acts 24: Proverbs 1:1-3:35 28 Acts 25: Proverbs 4:1-6:35 29 Acts 25:20-26:11 29 Proverbs 7:1-9:18 30 Acts 26: Proverbs 10:1-12:28 31 Acts 27: JUNE OLD TESTAMENT NEW TESTAMENT 2 Samuel 15:13-17:14 1 Luke 16:19-17: Samuel 17:15-19:8 2 Luke 17: Samuel 19:9-20:26 3 Luke 18: Samuel 21:1-22:51 4 Luke 18:31-19: Samuel 23:1-24:25 5 Luke 19: Kings 1:1-2:11 6 Luke 19: I Chronicles 23:2-25:31 7 Luke 20: I Chronicles 26:1-27:34 8 Luke 20:27-21:4 8 I Chronicles 28:1-29:30 9 Luke 21: Psalms 1:1-6:10 10 Luke 22: Psalms 7:1-10:18 11 Luke 22: Psalms 11:1-17:15 12 Luke 22:54-23:12 12 Psalms 18:1-19:14 13 Luke 23: Psalms 20:1-23:6 14 Luke 23: Psalms 24:1-28:9 15 Luke 24: Psalms 29:1-32:11 16 Luke 24: Psalms 33:1-35:28 17 Acts 1: Psalms 36:1-38:22 18 Acts 1:15-2:13 18 Psalms 39:1-41:13 19 Acts 2: Psalms 42:1-45:17 20 Acts 2:37-3:10 20 Psalms 46:1-49:20 21 Acts 3:11-4:4 21 Psalms 50:1-53:6 22 Acts 4: Psalms 54:1-57:11 23 Acts 4:32-5:16 23 Psalms 58:1-62:12 24 Acts 5: Psalms 63:1-67:7 25 Acts 6: Psalms 68:1-69:36 26 Acts 7: Psalms 70:1-72:20 27 Acts 7: Psalms 73:1-76:12 28 Acts 7:44-8:3 28 Psalms 77:1-78:53 29 Acts 8: Psalms 78:54-81:16 30 Acts 8:25-9:9 30 AUGUST OLD TESTAMENT NEW TESTAMENT Proverbs 13:1-15:33 1 Acts 27: Proverbs 16:1-18:24 2 Acts 28: Proverbs 19:1-21:31 3 Acts 28: Proverbs 22:1-24:9 4 Romans 1: Proverbs 24:10-26:28 5 Romans 1: Proverbs 27:1-29:27 6 Romans 2: Proverbs 30:1-31:31 7 Romans 2:17-3:8 7 Ecclesiastes 1:1-3:22 8 Romans 3: Ecclesiastes 4:1-7:29 9 Romans 4: Ecclesiastes 8:1-12:14 10 Romans 5: Song of Solomon 1:1-3:11 11 Romans 6: Song of Solomon 4:1-5:16 12 Romans 7: Song of Solomon 6:1-8:14 13 Romans 8: Kings 12:1-13:34 14 Romans 8: Kings 14:1-31, 2 Chronicles 15 Romans 9: :1-11:23 2 Chronicles 12:1-13:22, 1 Kings 16 Romans 10: :1-8 1 Kings 15:9-17:7 17 Romans 11: Kings 17:8-18:46 18 Romans 11: Kings 19:1-20:43 19 Romans 12: Kings 21:1-22:40 20 Romans 13: Chronicles 14:1-16:14 21 Romans 14:1-15: Kings 22:41-53, 2 Kings 1:1-22 Romans 15: :25 2 Kings 3:1-4:44 23 Romans 16: Kings 5:1-7: Corinthians 1: Kings 7:3-8:15, 2 Chronicles 25 1 Corinthians 1:26-2: :1-18:11 2 Chronicles 18:12-20: Corinthians 3: Chronicles 21:1-20, 2 Kings 27 1 Corinthians 4: :16-24, Obadiah Kings 8:25-10: Corinthians 5:1-6: Chronicles 22:1-12, 2 Kings 29 1 Corinthians 6:12-7: :18-12:16 2 Kings 12:17-13:25, 2 Chronicles 23: Corinthians 7: Page 15

16 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible 2 Chronicles 24:1-27, Joel 1: Corinthians 7: SEPTEMBER OLD TESTAMENT NEW TESTAMENT Joel 2:1-3: Corinthians 8: Chronicles 25:1-28, 2 Kings 2 1 Corinthians 9: :1-29 Jonah 1:1-4: Corinthians 10:1-11:1 3 Amos 1:1-3: Corinthians 11: Amos 4:1-6: Corinthians 12: Amos 7:1-9: Corinthians 13:1-14:19 6 Hosea 1:1-3:5 7 1 Corinthians 14: Hosea 4:1-6: Corinthians 15: Hosea 7:1-9: Corinthians 15: Hosea 10:1-11: Corinthians 16: Hosea 12:1-14: Corinthians 1: Kings 15:1-38, 2 Chronicles 12 2 Corinthians 1:15-2: :1-27:9 2 Kings 16:1-17: Corinthians 3:1-4: Chronicles 28:1-29: Corinthians 4:7-5: Chronicles 30:1-32: Corinthians 5:11-6: Chronicles 32:9-33, 2 Kings 16 2 Corinthians 6:11-7: : Kings 19:1-20: Corinthians 8: Micah 1:1-2: Corinthians 9: Micah 3:1-5: Corinthians 10: Micah 6:1-7: Corinthians 11: Isaiah 1:1-2: Corinthians 11:16-12:10 21 Isaiah 3:1-5: Corinthians 12:11-13:14 22 Isaiah 6:1-8:22 23 Galatians 1: Isaiah 9:1-10:34 24 Galatians 2: Isaiah 11:1-13:22 25 Galatians 3: Isaiah 14:1-16:14 26 Galatians 3:23-4:20 26 Isaiah 17:1-20:6 27 Galatians 4:21-5:12 27 Isaiah 21:1-23:18 28 Galatians 5:13-6:18 28 Isaiah 24:1-26:21 29 Ephesians 1: Isaiah 27:1-28:29 30 Ephesians 1:15-2:10 30 OCTOBER OLD TESTAMENT NEW TESTAMENT Isaiah 29:1-30:33 1 Ephesians 2:11-3:21 1 Isaiah 31:1-33:24 2 Ephesians 4: Isaiah 34:1-37:7 3 Ephesians 4:25-5:14 3 Isaiah 37:8-39:8 4 Ephesians 5:15-6:9 4 Isaiah 40:1-41:20 5 Ephesians 6: Isaiah 41:21-43:13 6 Philippians 1: Isaiah 43:14-45:7 7 Philippians 2: Isaiah 45:8-47:15 8 Philippians 3: Isaiah 48:1-49:26 9 Philippians 4: Isaiah 50:1-52:12 10 Colossians 1: Isaiah 52:13-55:13 11 Colossians 1:24-2:19 11 Isaiah 56:1-58:14 12 Colossians 2:20-3:17 12 Isaiah 59:1-60:22 13 Colossians 3:18-4:18 13 Isaiah 61:1-64: Thessalonians 1:1-2:12 14 Isaiah 65:1-66: Thessalonians 2:13-3:13 15 Nahum 1:1-3: Thessalonians 4: Kings 21:1-18, 2 Chronicles 17 1 Thessalonians 5: :1-20, Habakkuk 1:1-17 Habakkuk 2:1-3: Thessalonians 1:1-2: Kings 21:19-26, 2 Chronicles 19 2 Thessalonians 2:13-3: :21-35:15 2 Chronicles 35:16-27, 2 Kings 20 1 Timothy 1: :1-23:20 2 Kings 23:21-30, Zephaniah 1: Timothy 2:1-3: :15 Zephaniah 3:1-20, Jeremiah 1: Timothy 4: :8 Jeremiah 2:9-3: Timothy 5:1-6:2 23 Jeremiah 3:19-5: Timothy 6: Jeremiah 5:10-6: Timothy 1: Jeremiah 6:27-8: Timothy 2: Jeremiah 8:14-10: Timothy 3:1-4:8 27 Jeremiah 10:17-12: Timothy 4: Jeremiah 13:1-14:22 29 Titus 1:1-2:10 29 Jeremiah 15:1-17:4 30 Titus 2:11-3:15 30 Jeremiah 17:5-19:13 31 Philemon NOVEMBER OLD TESTAMENT NEW TESTAMENT Jeremiah 19:14-22:23 1 Hebrews 1:1-2:4 1 Jeremiah 22:24-24:10 2 Hebrews 2: Jeremiah 25:1-26:24 3 Hebrews 3:1-4:2 3 Jeremiah 27:1-29:23 4 Hebrews 4: Jeremiah 29:24-31:26 5 Hebrews 5:1-6:8 5 Jeremiah 31:27-32:44 6 Hebrews 6:9-7:10 6 Jeremiah 33:1-34:22 7 Hebrews 7: Jeremiah 35:1-37:10 8 Hebrews 8: Jeremiah 37:11-40:12 9 Hebrews 9: Jeremiah 40:13-43:13 10 Hebrews 9:23-10:18 10 Jeremiah 44:1-46:28 11 Hebrews 10: Jeremiah 47:1-48:47 12 Hebrews 11: Jeremiah 49: Hebrews 11: Jeremiah 50: Hebrews 12: Jeremiah 51: Hebrews 13: Jeremiah 51:59-52:34, 16 James 1: Lamentations 1:1-22 Lamentations 2:1-3:38 17 James 2: Lamentations 3:39-5:22 18 James 3: Chronicles 36:1-8, 2 Kings 19 James 4:1-5: :31-24:7, Daniel 1:1-2:24 Daniel 2:25-3:30 20 James 5: Daniel 4:1-5: Peter 1: Daniel 5:17-7: Peter 1:22-2:17 22 Daniel 7:15-9: Peter 2:18-3:12 23 Daniel 9:20-11: Peter 3:13-4:11 24 Daniel 11:36-12:13, 2 Chronicles 25 1 Peter 4:12-5: :9-21, 2 Kings 24:8-25:26 Ezekiel 1:1-3: Peter 1: Ezekiel 4:1-7: Peter 2: Ezekiel 8:1-11: Peter 3: Ezekiel 11:13-13: John 1:1-2:6 29 Ezekiel 14:1-16: John 2: DECEMBER OLD TESTAMENT NEW TESTAMENT Ezekiel 16:44-18: John 3: Ezekiel 19:1-20: John 4: Ezekiel 20:45-22: John 5: Ezekiel 23:1-24: John Ezekiel 24:15-27: John Ezekiel 27:12-28:26 6 Jude Ezekiel 29:1-30:26 7 Jude Ezekiel 31:1-32:32 8 Revelation 1: Ezekiel 33:1-34:31 9 Revelation 2: Ezekiel 35:1-37:14 10 Revelation 2:18-3:6 10 Ezekiel 37:15-39:29 11 Revelation 3: Ezekiel 40:1-41:20 12 Revelation 4: Ezekiel 41:21-44:14 13 Revelation 5: Ezekiel 44:15-46:24 14 Revelation 6: Ezekiel 47:1-48:35, 2 Kings 15 Revelation 7: :27-30, 2 Chronicles 36:22,23 Haggai 1:1-2;23, Zechariah 1:1-16 Revelation 8: :13 Zechariah 3:1-8:17 17 Revelation 9: Zechariah 8:18-11:17 18 Revelation 9:13-10:11 18 Zechariah 12:1-14:21, Esther 1:1-19 Revelation 11: Esther 2:1-4:17 20 Revelation 12:1-13:1a 20 Esther 5:1-9:16 21 Revelation 13:1b Esther 9:17-10:3, Ezra 1:1-2:70 22 Revelation 14: Ezra 3:1-5:17 23 Revelation 14:14-16:1 23 Ezra 6:1-8:14 24 Revelation 16: Ezra 8;15-10:44 25 Revelation 17: Nehemiah 1:1-4:23 26 Revelation 18: Nehemiah 5:1-7:73 27 Revelation 18:21-19:16 27 Nehemiah 8:1-9:31 28 Revelation 19:17-20:10 28 Nehemiah 9:32-11:36 29 Revelation 20:11-21: Page 16

17 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible Nehemiah 12:1-13:31 30 Revelation 21:9-22:5 30 Malachi 1:1-4:6 31 Revelation 22: Page 17

18 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible Reading at Your Own Pace OLD TESTAMENT BIBLE READING CHART Genesis Exodus Leviticus Numbers Deuteronomy Joshua Judges Ruth Samuel Samuel Kings Kings Chronicles Chronicles Ezra Nehemiah Esther Job Psalms Proverbs Ecclesiastes Song of Solomon Isaiah Jeremiah Lamentations Ezekiel Daniel Hosea Joel Amos Obadiah 1 Jonah Micah Nahum Habakkuk 1 2 3

19 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible Zephaniah Haggai 1 2 Zechariah Malachi NEW TESTAMENT BIBLE READING CHART Matthew Mark Luke John Acts Romans Corinthians Corinthians Galatians Ephesians Philippians Colossians Thessalonians Thessalonians Timothy Timothy Titus Philemon 1 Hebrews James Peter Peter John John 1 3 John 1 Jude 1 Revelation Application: Take a minute to select the Bible reading plan you want to use! Write it down here. 201 Page 19

20 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible III. HOW TO STUDY GOD'S WORD Why should I study? Psalm 19:7-11; The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes. The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever. The ordinances of the Lord are sure and altogether righteous. They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the comb. By them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward. From this Scripture, what value do you see in studying the Bible. Challenge: Take it home and study it! 1. In what ways did Jeremiah the prophet value scripture? Jeremiah 15: How did Jesus view man s need for the Scriptures? (Matthew 4:4) 3. Paul? In his charge to young Pastor Timothy? 2 Timothy 3: Peter? In 1 Peter 1:22 2:3 The difference between reading and studying the Bible is that you _use a pencil when you study. The 3 steps to Bible Study 1. Observation What does this say. 2. Interpretation What does this _mean. 3. Application How can I apply this to my life. The secret of effective Bible study is knowing how to ask the right questions.

21 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible Questions to ask: Who, What, When, Where, Why, How 1. Who wrote it? Who said it? Who are the major characters? Who are the people mentioned? To whom is the author speaking? About whom is he speaking? 2. What are the main events? What are the major ideas? What are the major teachings? What are these people like? What does he talk about the most? What is the purpose in saying that? 3. When was it written? When did the event take place? When will it happen? When did he say it? When did he do it? 4. Where was it done? Where was it said? Where will it happen? 5. Why was there a need for this to be written? Why was it mentioned? Why so much or so little space devoted to a particular event or teaching? 6. How is it done? How did it happen? How is this truth illustrated? How do I apply it to my life? 201 Page 21

22 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible Challenge: Take it home and study it! John 21:15-19 When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these? Yes, Lord, he said, you know that I love you. Jesus said, Feed my lambs. Again Jesus said, Simon son of John, do you truly love me? He answered, Yes, Lord, you know that I love you. Jesus said, Take care of my sheep. The third time he said to him, Simon, son of John, do you love me? Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, Do you love me? He said, Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you. Jesus said, Feed my sheep. I tell you the truth, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go. Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, Follow me! Compare John 18:25-27; As Simon Peter stood warming himself, he was asked, You are not one of his disciples are you? He denied it saying, I am not. One of the high priest s servants, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, challenged him, Didn t I see you with him in the olive grove? Again Peter denied it, and at that moment a rooster began to crow. Questions: 1. Who- A. Wrote it? B. Said it? C. Are the major characters? 2. What A. Are the main events? B. Are the major ideas? C. Are these people like? D. Does he talk about most? 3. When- A. Did he say it? B. Will it happen? 4. Where- A. Was it done? B. Was it said? 5. Why- A. Was there a need for this to be written? B. Was it mentioned? C. So much space devoted to a particular event or teaching? 6. How- A. Is it done? B. Did it happen? C. Do I apply it to my life? 201 Page 22

23 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible SUGGESTED RESOURCES FOR BIBLE STUDY Every student of the Word should have at least a good study bible, concordance, and dictionary/encyclopedia. Study Bibles: Suggestions Personal Study Bible: "The Life Application Bible" (Tyndale) Topical Study Bible: "Thompson Chain Reference Bible - NIV (Kirkbride) Background Study Bible: "The NIV Study Bible" (Zondervan) Doctrine Study Bible: "The Full Life Study Bible" (Zondervan) Bible Handbooks: Suggestions "Richard's Complete Handbook" (Word) "Haley's Bible Handbook" (Zondervan) "Eerdman's Bible Handbook" (Eerdmans) Other Important Study Tools: As many different translations as you can afford (These can be purchased in parallel editions) A complete concordance to match your translation A Bible on computer program such a Quickverse or PCBible The New Bible Dictionary (Eerdmans) The Baker Encyclopedia of the Bible (Baker) The New Bible Commentary (Eerdmans) The Moody Atlas of Bible Lands (Moody) The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah 201 Page 23

24 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible IV. HOW TO MEMORIZE GOD'S WORD Keep my commands and you will live; guard my teachings as the apple of your eye. Bind them on your fingers; write them on the tablet of your heart. Proverbs 7:2-3 BENEFITS OF MEMORIZING SCRIPTURE 1. It helps me resist temptation. "I have hidden your Word in my heart that I might not sin against you." Psalm 119:11 2. It helps me make wise decisions. "Your Word is a lamp to guide me and a light for my path. Psalm 119: It strengthens me when I'm under stress. Remember your word to your servant, for you have given me hope. Psalm 119:49 4. It comforts me when I'm sad. When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart s delight, for I bear your name, O LORD God Almighty. Jeremiah 15:16 5. It helps me witness to unbelievers. "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have." 1 Peter 3:15 During your Quiet Time While Exercising At bedtime (Ps 63:6) While waiting (spare moments) WHEN TO MEMORIZE A VERSE Traffic Light Fact- The average person spends _2 weeks over his or her lifetime waiting for a traffic light to change HOW TO MEMORIZE A VERSE 1. Pick a verse that speaks to you. 2. Say the reference before and after the verse. 3. Read the verse aloud many times. Record it! 4. Break the verse into natural phrases. 5. Emphasize key words when quoting the verse. 6. Write down the verse and erase a word one at a time. 7. Write out the verse on a flash card. 201 Page 24

25 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible 8. Carry some cards with you at all times for review. 9. Display your verses in prominent places. 10. Always memorize the verse word perfect. 11. Put the verse to music. Write a song! 12. Get a partner so you can check each other. 13. Write down the 1 st letter of each word and fill in the blanks. Application: Circle the ideas you plan to use! Suggested beginning rate: 2 new verses a week. THREE KEYS TO MEMORIZING: Review, review, review. We remember what is important to us. The law from your mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of silver and gold. Psalm 119: Page 25

26 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible SCRIPTURE MEMORY COURSE The following verses suggest a "balance" in Scripture Memory. The verses selected are key verses in understanding the foundations of the Christian Life and Christian Growth. Do not feel tied-down to this suggested list. This is only a tool to lead you in an understanding of the importance of memorizing "key" verses. Live the New Life: Christ the Center II Cor. 5:17; Gal. 2:20 Obedience to Christ Rom. 12:1; John 14:21 The Word II Tim. 3:16; Josh. 1:8 Prayer John 15:7; Phil. 4:6-7 Fellowship Matt. 18:20; Heb. 10:24 Witnessing Matt. 4:19; Rom. 1:16 Proclaim Christ: All Have Sinned Rom. 3:23; Isa. 53:6 Sin's Penalty Rom. 6:23; Heb. 9:27 Christ Paid the Penalty Rom. 5:8; I Peter 3:18 Salvation Not by Works Eph. 2:8-9; Titus 3:5 Must Receive Christ John 1:12; Rev. 3:20 Assurance of Salvation I John 5:13; John 5:24 Rely on God's Resources: His Spirit I Cor. 3:16; I Cor. 2:12 His Strength Isa. 41:10; Phil. 4:13 His Faithfulness Lam. 3:22; Num. 23:19 His Peace Isa. 26:3; I Peter 5:7 His Provision Rom. 8:32; Phil 4:19 His Help in Temptation Heb. 2:18; Ps. 119:9, 11 Be Christ's Disciple: Put Christ First Matt. 6:33; Luke 9:23 Separate from the World I Jn. 2:15-16; Rom. 12:2 Be Steadfast I Cor. 15:58; Heb. 12:3 Serve Others Mark 10:45; II Cor. 4:5 Give Generously Prv. 3:9-10; II Cor. 9:6-7 Develop World Vision Acts 1:8; Matt. 28:19-20 Grow in Christ likeness: Love John 13:34-35; I John. 3:18 Humility Phil. 2:3-4; I Peter 5:5-6 Purity Eph. 5:3; I Peter 2:11 Honesty Lev. 19:11; Acts 24:16 Faith Heb. 11:6; Rom. 4:20-21 Good Works Gal. 6:9-10; Matt. 5: Page 26

27 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible V. HOW TO MEDITATE ON GOD'S WORD But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither. Whatever he does prospers. Psalm 1:2-3 Meditation is _focused thinking about a Bible verse in order to discover how I can apply its truth to my own life. WHY MEDITATE ON SCRIPTURE? 1. It is the key to becoming like Christ. "... Be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Rom. 12:2 "As we... contemplate the Lord's glory, we are being transformed into His likeness..." 1 Cor. 3:18 2. It is the key to answered prayer. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you. John 15:7 3. It is the key to successful living. "... Meditate on (the Word) day and night, so you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful." Joshua 1:8 SIX WAYS TO MEDITATE ON A VERSE 1. Picture it! Visualize the scene in your mind. 2. Pronounce it! Say the verse aloud, each time emphasizing a different word. 3. Paraphrase it! Rewrite the verse in your own words. 4. Personalize it! Replace the pronouns or people in the verse with your own name. 5. Pray it! Turn the verse into a prayer and say it back to God. 6. Probe it! Ask the following nine questions: S.P.A.C.E.P.E.T.S. Questions Is there any... SIN TO CONFESS? PROMISE TO CLAIM? ATTITUDE TO CHANGE? COMMAND TO KEEP? EXAMPLE TO FOLLOW? PRAYER TO PRAY? ERROR TO AVOID? TRUTH TO BELIEVE? SOMETHING TO THANK GOD FOR? 201 Page 27

28 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible VI. HOW TO APPLY GOD'S WORD "Do not fool yourselves by just listening to the Word. Instead, put it into practice." James 1:22 "... Whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. Matt. 5:19 HOW TO APPLY SCRIPTURE 1st ask: What did it mean to the original hearers? 2nd ask: What is the underlying timeless principle? 3rd ask: Where or how could I practice that principle? 201 Page 28

29 How to Get a Grasp on Your Bible 201 Page 29

30 THE HABIT OF A DAILY TIME WITH GOD The Lord is with you when you are with him. If you seek him, he will be found by you, but if you forsake him, he will forsake you. 2 Chronicles 15:2

31 The Habit of a Daily Time With God HOW TO HAVE A QUIET TIME DEFINITION: "A quiet time is a daily time I set aside to be alone with God to get to know Him through the Bible and prayer." I. THE IMPORTANCE OF A DAILY QUIET TIME Your time alone with God should be the top priority in your schedule for five reasons: 1. We were created to have fellowship with God. Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me." Rev. 3:20 2. Jesus died to make a relationship to God possible. God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord is faithful. 1 Corinthians 1:9 3. Personal time alone with God was Jesus source of strength Mark 1:35, Luke 22:39, Luke 5:16 "Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed." 4. Every person who has been effective in service for God developed this habit. Abraham, Moses, David, Daniel, Paul, etc. 5. You cannot be a _healthy Christian without it! Jesus answered, "It is written: Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God. Matt. 4:4 "I have not departed from the commands of his lips; I have treasured the words of his mouth more than my daily bread. Job 23:12 II. THE PURPOSE OF A DAILY QUIET TIME 1. TO GIVE devotion TO GOD. "Give to the Lord the glory due to his name. Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness." Ps. 29:2 "In everything that he undertook in the service of God s temple and in obedience to the law and the commands, he sought his God and worked wholeheartedly. And so he prospered." 2 Chronicles 31:21 God deserves our devotion! (Rev. 4:11) God desires our devotion! (John 4:23) 201 Page 31

32 The Habit of a Daily Time With God 2. TO GET _direction FROM GOD. "Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths; Ps. 25:4 Two Things To Do In A Quiet Time Consider your way: "Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. Do not swerve to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil." Pr. 4:26 In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:6 Commit your day: "Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this: He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun." Psalm 37:5 3. TO GAIN delight IN GOD. "Delight yourself in the Lord; and he will give you the desires of your heart." Ps. 37:4 "You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Psalm 16:11 FACT: The better I get to know Christ, the more I love him. The objective of your Quiet Time is not to study about Christ, but to actually spend time with him! 4. TO GROW daily LIKE GOD. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. 2 Peter 1:4 When they saw the courage of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they were astonished and they took note that these men had been with Jesus. Acts 4: Page 32

33 The Habit of a Daily Time With God 1. SELECT A SPECIFIC TIME. How to begin a daily quiet time The best time to have a quiet time is when I am at my best! Reasons for considering an early morning quiet time: The example of Bible characters. (Abraham, Jacob, Moses, Hannah, Job, Hezekiah, David, Daniel, Jesus, etc.) It seems logical to begin the day with it. "The best time to tune your instrument is before you play the concert, not after!" It demonstrates that meeting with God is your first priority. You give Him the first part of your day. You are likely to be more rested, your mind is less cluttered, and it's often the quietest time! Whatever time you set, be consistent. HOW LONG SHOULD A QUIET TIME BE: 3 Guidelines -Start with 15 minutes and let it grow. -Don't watch the clock! -Emphasize quality, not quantity! 2. CHOOSE A SPECIAL PLACE. "Jesus went out as usual to the Mount of Olives, and his disciples followed him to pray." Luke 22:39 The Important Factor: "Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went to a solitary place, where he prayed." Mark 1:35 3. GATHER THE RESOURCES YOU'LL NEED. 1. A Bible - with readable print. 2. A Notebook - to write down what the Lord speaks to you about, and to keep your prayer list. 3. A Songbook - if you want to sing. 201 Page 33

34 The Habit of a Daily Time With God 4. BEGIN WITH THE RIGHT ATTITUDES Reverence "Be still, and know that I am God." Ps. 46:10 Expectancy "Open my eyes to see wonderful things in your Word." Ps. 119:18(LB) But seek first His kingdom and his righteousness, and these things will be given you as well. Matt 6:33 5. FOLLOW A SIMPLE PLAN "FIFTEEN MINUTES WITH GOD" (A Plan To Get You Started) 1. RELAX. (1 Minute) Be still and quiet! Slow down! Prepare your heart. Take a few deep breaths and wait on God. 2. READ. (4 Minutes) See the section on "How To Read God's Word". Begin reading where you left off the day before. Read until you feel God has told you something. Then stop and think about it. 3. REFLECT. (4 Minutes) See the section on "How To Meditate on God's Word". You may use the S.P.A.C.E.P.E.T.S. or any of the 6 methods of meditation. Think about what the passage means to your life. Write down your thoughts. Part of reflecting is memorizing verses that speak to you in a special way. See the section on :"How To Memorize God's Word". 4. RECORD. (2 Minutes) See the section on "How To Apply God's Word". Write out a personal application statement that is practical, passable, and measurable. "Thoughts disentangle themselves when they pass through the lips and the fingertips." 5. REQUEST. (4 Minutes) See the section on "The Habit of Prayer". Conclude our Quiet Time by talking to God about what He has shown you and making your requests from our prayer list. 201 Page 34

35 The Habit of a Daily Time With God III. HOW TO OVERCOME THE PROBLEMS WITH YOUR QUIET TIME 1. THE PROBLEM OF DISCIPLINE Your first problem in establishing a quiet time will face you the moment you wake each morning: Am I going to get out of bed? ("The Battle of the Blankets") Suggestions 1. Go to bed ON TIME. 2. Get up IMMEDIATELY. 3. Be aware of quiet time ROBBERS. 4. Fall asleep thinking SPIRITUAL THOUGHTS. 2. THE PROBLEM OF DISTRACTIONS Satan will try to use anything to get your mind to wander during a quiet time. Suggestions Get out of _BED. Read and pray ALOUD. Get thoroughly AWAKE. _WALK during your prayer time. Keep a NOTEPAD NEARBY. 3. THE PROBLEM OF DRYNESS Sometimes you will feel like you're not getting anything out of your quiet time. ( The Battle of the Blahs") Never judge your quiet time by your FEELINGS. Possible Causes of Spiritual Dryness 1. Your physical condition. 2. Disobedience to God. 3. Rushing your quiet time. 4. Getting in a rut. 5. Not sharing insights with others. 201 Page 35