“For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, and to do it and to teach his statutes and rules in Israel.” (Ezra 7:10) Like Ezra, there is a need for determination to study the Word of God.
Attitude: Studying the bible is a resolution or decision of the will, the inner person. It springs from the Fear of God or reverence for God of heaven and earth. The intention is obedience, not for enjoying good literature, or increase in knowledge, but to obey the Truth revealed. There are billions of books produced in the world. Only one book, when reading the ultimate author, the Holy Spirit is present is the Holy Bible. Hence, requesting Him to provide insight is appropriate and essential.
Action: To Listen and Learn the Word of God, there is a need for preparation. First, spiritual preparation of prayer, expectation, fine tuning to hear, and faith that God speaks today. Second, the purpose of reading the bible is to renew the mind. The mind is filled with ideas of the world, cultural values, trending opinions, and traditions, that are in opposition to the truth revealed in the Bible. Hence, such thoughts should be deleted as photos and files are deleted when memory is full in a smartphone. Fresh thoughts from the Bible must be filled, rather than saturate the mind, to have a renewed mind. Third, it is always good to have tools like pens, notepads, or journals to take notes. If possible, use study bibles, concordances, and commentaries.
Application: Truth transforms a person, only when it is applied and practiced. For example, Paul writes that our anger should come to an end at sunset. (Ephesians 4:26) This principle must be applied in daily life. Examine with whom we get frequently angry, why, and for how long. Then, avoid those anger triggers, even when angry it should disappear in a few hours. This application could extend to our family members by teaching. It could become preaching by demonstration to others in the sphere of influence.
Do I study, practice, and teach the Word of God?