Week 1 Introduction – How Do We Apply That Meaning (Feb 23)
STUDY
Read: James 1:19-25 (NLT)
This is the most important part of Bible study. You can spend a lot of time reading and studying, even memorizing, but if it does not change you, it is a waste of time. It’s just meaningless. So here is a summary of what we have covered this week. When we study the Bible, here are the steps to keep in mind:
- Consider the Context
- Try to get at the Original Meaning
- Apply the Meaning (Do what it says. Let it change you.)
When applying the meaning, don’t forget about step two. It is often here where we try to make the Bible say what we want it to. Listen to the original message. Obey it. Let it change you.
IMMERSE
Debbie Buhrow contributed this verse: Ecclesiastes 12:13-14, “Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.” (NIV)
Debbie commented about this verse, “I like it because there’s not a lot of gray area here, what we are to do is very clear. Solomon, who lived in excess in every way and enjoyed what the world had to offer, came to the conclusion that life is meaningless without God.”
1) What areas or activities in your life are meaningless? How much time do they take up?
2) Pray: Ask God how you can live a more meaningful life. What should you do less often, or not at all? What should you do more of, or start doing?
3) Refer to your Prayer Journal.