The Bible is not an easy read. Yet so many Christians approach the Bible as if they ought to be experts at what it contains. They believe that just by nature of being a Christian, Bible study should come naturally to them. I believed this lie for the longest time. I’m not sure I would have ever vocalized it as such, but my experience proved it. Instead of being a source of joy and delight, opening God’s Word was an activity filled with guilt and failure. It paralyzed me and left me feeling less-than for not having the amazing “quiet times” everyone else around me seemed to be having.
If you find yourself scratching your head when it comes time for Bible study, know that you are NOT alone. In fact, you are probably in the majority. But just because you’re in that boat doesn’t mean you have to stay there. The Bible is the primary way we can know God and the purpose He has for our lives. It is God’s revelation to us, His very words which tell us who He is and who we are because of Christ. It is a gift of grace, a treat to be enjoyed and savored. The Bible is filled with the spiritual nourishment our souls crave.
Here are 8 actions to take when you have no idea what you are reading:
1. PRAY.
2. ZOOM OUT AND GET THE BIG PICTURE.
3. BE SURE YOU ARE ASKING THE RIGHT QUESTIONS.
4. PHONE A FRIEND.
5. READ A COMMENTARY AND LISTEN TO A SERMON ON THE PASSAGE.
https://katieorr.me/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/christian-women-bible-study.jpg8941500Katiehttps://katieorr.me/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/bible-study-for-women-6-1.pngKatie2019-04-18 14:59:522019-04-18 14:59:54For when you try to study the Bible but have no idea what you are reading.
Women’s history month is upon us, and we all have cause to celebrate the female voices of the past who have paved the way for women to enjoy a fuller, educated life with which to serve our God. Yet many of us who have grown up in the church have received mixed messages when it comes to what the Bible has to say about women. Even those who have little-to-no church experience have likely heard some sort of (so-called) biblical perspective on the role and value of women. However, many of these “facts” have been distorted, misunderstood, and even misused by men and women alike.
Here are three common misinterpretations, misconceptions, and misteachings when it comes to the Bible and women:
The Bible teaches that men are more valuable than women.
The Bible teaches that women should not seek to have a voice.
The Bible teaches that women should not teach or lead.
Before we dive into what the Bible does not say about women, I think we need to start this conversation with a few important foundations about God and His Word.
There is no “Old Testament God” and “New Testament God.” Both accounts (as well as all teachings of Jesus) are of the same God. There are no contradictions. God is the all-knowing, all-merciful, all-righteous, all-gracious, all-holy, all-mighty, all-loving God. He is immutable—He does not change. Everything we know to be true of God in the Old Testament is still true of Him in the New, and vice versa. Our knowledge of the New Testament shapes the way we read the Old, and so it goes the other way around.
Most of the issues people have with the Bible’s “teachings” on women can be understood and explained through greater knowledge of the history, context, and purpose of the writing. God worked (and still does work) through the culture, geography, and customs of the time. Some of the “oddball,” troubling traditions we see in the Bible are primarily of cultural, not spiritual, influence. Additionally, a lack of the reader’s familiarity with the original languages (Greek and Hebrew) as well as many interpretive nuances of each lead to difficulties in capturing the true meaning of the original text(ex: Deuteronomy 22:28-29). Alongside all of these issues is the fact that many of the “problems” people have with the treatment of women are treatments which are also applied to men (ie. Leviticus 15, see point #2 here).
This post assumes that you believe that the Bible is the inerrant, inspired Word of God. It is His revelation to us. It is primarily a theological book, intended to reveal who God is and what His plan is for mankind. It is not a history, science, economics, or morality book. It has those elements within it, but its purpose is not to provide a detailed dissertation on those topics. We must start from the foundational viewpoint that the Bible is sufficient and authoritative, and when we do not understand all the pieces of the biblical puzzle, we need to remember the goodness of God and perfection of His Word and keep seeking to understand.
All this to say, we don’t get to read the Bible with a Sharpie, blacking out the passages we don’t like. When we encounter difficult passages, we need to change our default position. Instead of letting hard verses cast doubt on God’s character, we need to first question our own knowledge and understanding of His Word. With this posture as our common ground, let’s move on to the three earlier stated misconceptions about what the Bible says about women.
https://katieorr.me/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/bible-women-1.jpg8001200Katiehttps://katieorr.me/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/bible-study-for-women-6-1.pngKatie2019-03-13 10:43:232019-04-01 11:45:50What the Bible Does NOT Teach about Women
In a world moving full-steam ahead and no idea of knowing what is looming around the bend, it is easy to give into the feeling of uncertainty. Worry and anxiety often rule our thoughts, leaving us feeling out of control. These are the times we must remember God’s Word and the promises it holds.
God is bigger than any barrier we run into.
God is stronger than any mountain we might face.
God is always nearer than we realize, and loves us more than we can ever imagine.
When we give into worry, the last thing we need is a quick-fix or more information. What we need is a reminder of who God is, and how much He cares for us. We need to get our eyes off of ourselves, and on to Him.
Psalm 46:1–3
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah (ESV)
Luke 12:22–24
And he said to his disciples, “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat, nor about your body, what you will put on. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothing. Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds! (ESV)
Psalm 147:8–11
He covers the heavens with clouds; he prepares rain for the earth; he makes grass grow on the hills. He gives to the beasts their food, and to the young ravens that cry. His delight is not in the strength of the horse, nor his pleasure in the legs of a man, but the LORD takes pleasure in those who fear him, in those who hope in his steadfast love. (ESV)
Matthew 10:29–31
Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. (ESV)
Psalm 50:1–2
The Mighty One, God the LORD, speaks and summons the earth from the rising of the sun to its setting. Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God shines forth. (ESV)
Luke 12:25–28
And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? If then you are not able to do as small a thing as that, why are you anxious about the rest? Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass, which is alive in the field today, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! (ESV)
James 1:5–6
If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him. But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the wind. (ESV)
Luke 12:29–31
And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried. For all the nations of the world seek after these things, and your Father knows that you need them. Instead, seek his kingdom, and these things will be added to you. (ESV)
Want to dive deeper into additional verses on how to deal with worry?
Are you a worrier? Does not knowing what other people are thinking, what curve balls are around the corner … or simply what’s for dinner send you into a panic? This 8-day reading plan is for you. Through 5-10 minutes a day, this reading plan—Bible verses for the Control Freak—will lead you to set your mind on who God is and the actions you need to take to trust in Him and find rest for your weary soul. NOW FREE THROUGH 3/18/2019 using the coupon link above.
When I starting seeing that the Word of God is something to enjoy instead of something to do—something to achieve—that was another place in my life that really propelled me forward spiritually.
Why is it important to study the Bible? In this video, I explain how Bible study affects every part of our life, but most importantly, our view of God.
Watch the video and catch the full transcripts over at LifeWay Voices.
https://katieorr.me/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/bible-study-video.jpg8001200Katiehttps://katieorr.me/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/bible-study-for-women-6-1.pngKatie2019-01-03 17:28:392019-04-01 11:45:50The End Goal of Bible Study
I’m a head-first-diver. When I decide I want to do something, I set my mind to it … and go. Sometimes this approach works, sometimes it doesn’t. There are some cases that you just need to dive in and see where things take you. There are others that a bit of planning and foresight will go a long way. Bible study is one of the latter.
It’s important to recognize that Bible study is a journey and every time we open our Bibles, we lay another layer down for the step ahead. And since it is a journey it is oh-so-helpful to understand where we are and where we are going.
Step 1. Place yourself on the Bible Study Boulevard
Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation—if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.
1 Peter 2:2–3 ESV
We all start out on the left—a Bible Study Beginner. Peter tells us to be like babes who long for the milk that will enable us to grow up. Our spiritual life is just like our physical life. In order to grow, we must take in nourishment. The rate of our spiritual growth is in direct correlation to the amount of “milk” we take in.
No Bible, no growth. A little bit of Bible, a little bit of growth.
Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth.
2 Timothy 2:15 ESV
Here we have the end goal when it comes to our ability to study the Bible: an accurate handler of the Bible. This means that we ought to be able to open the Bible, read it, study it, figure out what it means (interpret), and walk forward in worship of the God who wrote it (apply it). There is a biblical expectation that all who come to Christ also become accurate handlers. All Christians eventually should be able to eat the meat.
For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child.
Hebrews 5:12–13 ESV
This is not meant to be a guilt trip, but a reality check—so that we can correctly place ourselves on the Bible Study Boulevard. Once we know where we are, then we can choose the right next step.
ASSIGNMENT: Take a moment in honest evaluation of where you are at on the Bible Study Boulevard. Pick a “hex” above, and take a mental note.
Step 2: Know where to put your primary focus
Build the Habit —> Gain Understanding —> Worship God
Build the Habit
When we are first starting out in our Bible study journey, we need to focus on building the habit. Start small and doable. Get the quick win and build on that success. Place your energies on showing up. This doesn’t mean that you won’t gain any understanding—you will—but you need to first put your best effort toward getting into a rhythm of regularly opening your Bible.
Gain Understanding
Once spending time in the Bible has begun to become routine, you are ready to move on and take the next baby step toward understanding the Bible. Now you can start using those brain cells to focus more about what you are reading. You can flex those Bible study muscles and begin learning how to accurately handle the words in the Bible.
Worship God
All along the way, you are worshiping God. You don’t have to wait until you know everything about the Bible and perfectly live it out before you can worship God with your life. (Spoiler alert) You never will! The depths of the Bible can be mined for a lifetime. And not one of us will ever be able to obey it perfectly. (Good news is, Jesus did on our behalf!) However, every intentional step you take along the way is one that says, “God, I want you more than ________.” And as you gain understanding, you get to see God more and more clearly. As you get a better and brighter view of who God is and what His best plan is for your life, you will naturally want to respond in obedient worship.
ASSIGNMENT: With where you are in mind, decide if you need to focus primarily on HABIT or UNDERSTANDING. Now we can move on to choosing the right next Bible study baby step for you.
Step 3. Pick the right approach for you
This is where things get exciting!! Now that you know where you need to focus, you can put together a plan. I’ve laid out all the products I have available so you can see where they are on the boulevard. Each is designed to help prepare and propel you forward to the next Bible study baby step.
Choose by skill level
Completely out of the habit? Never read more than a few verses at a time? —> Pick a reading plan.
Completed at least a few weeks in a row of Bible reading? Studied the Bible before but it’s been a while? —> Start with a reading plan, then add FLEX 3 as you feel ready to take the next step.
In a great routine of Bible reading and ready for a challenge? —> Start off with FLEX 3 and move on to FLEX 6 once you get the hang of things.
Tried out a few Bible study tools and ready for more? —> Start with FLEX 9 or even the FOCUSed15 method.
These decision-making suggestions are based primarily on skill. But you can also make your choice by the time you have available that day.
Choose by time available
Only have a moment available today? —> Read a few verses. Then thank God for what you read.
Have a few minutes to spare? —> Study a few verses (2-4) with the FLEX 3 layers.
Have several minutes? —> Study several verses (5-7) using FLEX 6.
Have 10 minutes today? —> FLEX 9 on 9 verses or so.
Have 15 minutes or more? —> Go through the FOCUSed15 study steps on a few verses (3-5).
Of course, there are loads of other reading plans out there and Bible study tools besides these. Go out there and try out as many as you can. We all learn differently, so there is no one-size-fits-all approach to Bible study. All of my products are build to help you toward the goal of being able to rightly divide the Bible on your own. However, there are some really, really awesome Bible studies out there that are geared primarily toward understanding. I’ve completed dozens of them and grew tremendously from them. You may not learn how to study your Bible, but you will gain LOADS of understanding on the topic or the book it teaches on. There is a place for both!
ASSIGNMENT: Chose an approach and prepare for your next step. Here are a few resources you might find helpful.
Now all this is cool info, but it all means nothing if we don’t move forward! To recap, here is what we’ve covered:
Place yourself on the Bible Study Boulevard.
Know where to put your primary focus. (Habit? Understanding?)
Pick the right approach for you and prepare for your next step.
Now, it’s time to dive in. Start now. Determine your next baby-step and take it!
I’m super-duper-excited about a new product I’ve created with all of this in mind. The Proverbs Bible Study Pack allows for all of the above beginner steps. So whether you are brand new to Bible study, or have a bit of experience under your belt, you can utilize this pack.
https://katieorr.me/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/bible-study-baby-steps.jpg7311200Katiehttps://katieorr.me/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/bible-study-for-women-6-1.pngKatie2018-12-31 16:23:282019-04-01 11:45:50How to baby-step your Bible study
Do the words “Bible study” send you into a cold sweat? It used to do so to me! Many find studying the Bible intimidating and hard—often accompanied by a constant feeling that she is just not doing it right.
On top of these, there is a notion out there that if we are a Christian, then we ought to be able to pick up the Bible, easily understand what it says, then put it into practice immediately. I vividly remember the first time I opened my Bible with sincerity—I just knew it was going to be the turning point in my relationship with God. However when I opened it up and started reading … I was confused. I had no idea what the words on the page meant, nor how I should move forward because of them!
If you want to be able to understand the Bible on your own, you’re not alone. Nor are you stranded! Below are a few tips to help get you started.
Beginner Bible Study Tip #1
Start with the right mindset
I’ve made many Bible study attempts—and fumbled more than a few. Each attempt was super-frustrating. Here are a few pieces of advice I wish I’d had before I started out.
Don’t feel like you have to study every single verse. Focus on quality over quantity. Bible study is not a race or a performance.
Don’t be afraid to test the waters. There are LOADS of different study methods out there. Some you will love, some you may not. We all learn differently, so if the first thing you try out just doesn’t do it for you, keep trying until you find one that fits. As you try out different methods, look for the four pillars of Bible study you want to make sure you include over time.
Read: Simply read or write out the verses to get a big picture overview.
Observe: The goal here is to start seeing the truths contained in each verse.
Interpret: This is where we gather what we’ve observed in order to figure out what it means. (A good study Bible is of great help for this step.)
Apply: Once we know what the verses mean, we get to respond to what we’ve learned.
Don’t forget why you are studying. It’s not to impress other people. It’s not to gain approval from God. We study our Bible in order to meet with God and know Him better. He’s not concerned about the color of your pen or how many verses you studied. The act of setting aside time to spend with Him is what matters—even if you walk away from the Bible scratching your head. Over time, you will learn more about Him as you keep showing up and enjoy the time you have with God.
Beginner Bible Study Tip #2
Focus on building the habit
Habit —> Understanding —> Worship
Studying the Bible regularly starts with getting into a regular routine. You can have all the Bible study tools available to you, but if you aren’t in the habit of sitting down to study, those tools won’t be of much help. You cannot gain understanding without a regular routine of opening your Bible.
Here are a few thoughts to consider as you embark on creating a rhythm of regular time in the Bible. (The tips here are the same for building the habit of regular Bible reading which I gave in an earlier post, so this is an abbreviated version.)
Take it a day at a time. Don’t worry about finding the “perfect” time, simply look at your schedule for tomorrow and pick out the best 10 minute slot. Then do the same until you find a routine.
Keep going. Don’t give in to the paralysis of perfectionism. Resist the thought that 10 minutes of study isn’t enough. Something is always better than nothing.
Invite a friend to study with you. If you are not sure who to invite, consider an online Bible study group. (We’re studying Proverbs in January. Join us!)
Beginner Bible Study Tip #3
Start small; take baby steps
Trying to tackle a large book of the Bible is probably not the best option for most when starting out. Instead, consider setting a small Bible study goal. Something you can complete in a week or month time frame—in just a few minutes a day—is a great place to start. This will give you the easy win—especially if you are not already in a regular habit of Bible reading.
Here are a few beginner-level suggestions:
Make a list of some of your favorite verses, and study them one at a time.
Choose one of Paul’s letters (Galatians, Ephesians, etc.) and study one chapter, just a few verses a day.
A mixture of big picture Bible reading and then zooming in to study for a few minutes is a great approach. For example, in my Proverbs Study pack, I recommend reading one chapter a day, which should take you about 5 minutes. Once you are done reading the entire chapter, then you can zoom in to apply some study tools to just 3 of the verses you just read.
FLEX 3-6-9: Beginner Bible Study
I’ve worked with thousands of women to help them learn how to study the Bible in as little as 15 minutes a day through my FOCUSed15 Bible studies. When I put them together, I wanted to bridge the gap between devotionals and the long workbook studies. A hole has been filled with the FOCUSed15 studies, but there is still a big jump for someone with little-to-no Bible study background.
So, I went back to the drawing board and created a method of Bible study specifically geared toward newbies. I call it FLEX 3-6-9. It’s a flexible tool that will help you learn how to flex your Bible study muscles. You’ll start out small—3 verses, 3 questions, 3 minutes—then once you are good at that, you can move up to 6 verses, 6 questions, for 6 minutes. Eventually, you’ll learn how to study 9 verses at a time, asking 9 questions, and study for 9 minutes.
You can do this!
Features of FLEX 3-6-9
Easy Start – At just 3 minutes of Bible study a day, this is a great place to start.
Incremental Steps – Through small baby steps you’ll learn how to open the Bible, ask the right questions, and begin to understand what it means.
Flexible Time – Depending on how much time you have in your day, you can study more or less.
Transferrable Method – From Genesis to Revelation, this method can be used to study every type of book of the Bible.
Strengthens Skills – You’ll learn how to study the Bible on your own.
For now, this brand new tool is available through the Proverbs Study Pack which includes everything you need to get started!
https://katieorr.me/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/beginner-bible-study.jpg8001200Katiehttps://katieorr.me/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/bible-study-for-women-6-1.pngKatie2018-12-23 16:30:242019-04-01 11:45:50Beginner Bible Study
‘Tis the season for extra activities, endless shopping lists, and out-of-control eating because we’re all so stressed from the formerly mentioned activities. Come December 26th, we’ll be more than ready to get back to our normal routine and excited for the new year ahead. High on the priority list for most Christ-followers is to read the Bible more. Many will start reading through the Bible with great enthusiasm, but fizzle out before the next page in the calendar is turned.
I’ve been there. My guess is that you have been as well. Why do so many of us struggle to simply read the Bible consistently? I believe it has much to do with our motivations. It is important to pay attention to the desires of the heart, especially when we are setting out on a spiritual endeavor.
Here are three reasons why you shouldn’t put “read my Bible more” on your resolutions list this year
I read my Bible to make God happy with me.
I read my Bible to impress other people.
I read my Bible to because it is what good Christians do.
If you are currently reading the Bible for any of the above reasons, don’t stop! Keep going. But as you do, begin praying and working toward a healthier perspective.
Here are three healthy reasons why you should read the Bible
I read my Bible to build the habit.
I read my Bible to gain a better understanding of God and His plan for my life.
I read my Bible to worship God through responding to what I learn.
https://katieorr.me/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/why-read-your-bible.jpg8001200Katiehttps://katieorr.me/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/bible-study-for-women-6-1.pngKatie2018-12-13 10:36:412019-04-01 11:45:50Why you shouldn't read your Bible (Wait...what?!)
There are seasons that are hard. I just don’t feel right. Discouragement comes easy. The dark cloud looms and lingers.
I begin searching for what’s missing. Maybe if I start running, or eat better I will feel better about myself? Or, am I lonely and just need to find a new friend? Get more sleep? A better schedule? Time alone? A date night?
I’ll try a few things, and when the newness wears off I turn to what energize me. Teaching the Word, blogging, time with good friends, time alone to plan. While they do help recharge me, they will never be enough.
9 Bible verses for discouragement
Only God’s word brings me life.
My soul clings to the dust; give me life according to your word! Psalm 119:25
Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways. Psalm 119:37
In uncertainty, His word alone is my good counsel.
Your testimonies are my delight; they are my counselors. Psalm 119:24
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Psalm 119:105
When my soul cries out, His promises alone bring comfort.
This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life. Psalm 119:50
Great peace have those who love your law; nothing can make them stumble. Psalm 119:165
Though there are moments of overwhelming sorrow, His word under-girds with strength.
My soul melts away for sorrow; strengthen me according to your word! Psalm 119:28
His mercy and grace is what I truly need. Not a smaller jeans size, or a better organized house. Not a new friendship or time to myself. He is my missing piece.
Let your mercy come to me, that I may live; for your law is my delight. Psalm 119:77
Turn to me and be gracious to me, as is your way with those who love your name. Psalm 119:132
Which verses do you cling to when the dark cloud looms?
Advent is right around the corner and this is a great time for us to set our minds on Jesus, you know, the reason for the season! I’ve collected many advent plans and studies along the years. Here’s a list of studies I’ve done—or have wanted to do!
Advent Bible studies for women
Love Comes NearFull Disclosure: At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase. Thanks for your support!
25-day Bible study from Jenni Keller
Includes a bonus Family Advent Experience
Learn more about Love Comes NearFull Disclosure: At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase. Thanks for your support!
He IsFull Disclosure: At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase. Thanks for your support!
An Advent Bible study from Becky Kiser
20 Bible Study days on the attributes of God written by 20 guest writers (including me!)
Includes a 5 Advent Candle Bible Study and Instruction days
Learn more about He IsFull Disclosure: At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase. Thanks for your support!
Then Came JesusFull Disclosure: At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase. Thanks for your support!
A 4-week Bible study by Lara Williams
Each week organized into a 5-day study plan
Suggested Scripture memory passages for each week
Each day includes an optional “Family Idea”
Learn more about Then Came JesusFull Disclosure: At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase. Thanks for your support!
A 24 day plan through the Jesus Storybook BibleFull Disclosure: At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase. Thanks for your support! (our fav!!)
Includes Bible verses to read alongside theJesus Storybook BibleFull Disclosure: At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase. Thanks for your support!
Simply grab your copy of Jesus Storybook BibleFull Disclosure: At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase. Thanks for your support! and download her free reading plan!
The Littlest Watchman – Advent CalendarFull Disclosure: At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase. Thanks for your support!
Includes an Advent Calendar and Devotional BookletFull Disclosure: At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase. Thanks for your support!
Gives suggestions on how to make your own “Jesse tree”
Order your copy hereFull Disclosure: At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase. Thanks for your support!
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I’ve long said that we need to stop “trying harder” and focus our efforts on “believing better.” For years, I tried and tried and tried to be good—sure I was going to get it right this time. Yet when I failed (and I always did), I was surprised and disappointed in myself. I looked around, and it seemed like everyone else had it all figured out … they must know something I don’t. Or maybe they are simply working harder at being good. I need to try harder. Then I’ll quit messing up so much.
Finally, I heard about grace and I stopped trying so hard to be good, and I began to rest in His goodness. And the more time I spent with Him, the more I desired more. I started actually reading Bible verses about God and realized that my view of God was way off from what His Word tells us.
“It is impossible to keep our moral practices sound and our inward attitudes right while our idea of God is erroneous or inadequate” — A.W. Tozer, The Knowledge of the HolyFull Disclosure: At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase. Thanks for your support!
I believe the greatest measure of spiritual growth is not how good we’ve become. The most accurate marker of our maturity in Christ is the way we see our God. If our view of Him is small, so will be our faith. When our mind’s eye sees God as small and indifferent, our heart’s cry for Him will be the same.
“What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us” — A.W. Tozer, The Knowledge of the HolyFull Disclosure: At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase. Thanks for your support!
Yes! Yes! Yes!
These quotes are from a gem of a book—a small yet deep survey of who God isFull Disclosure: At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase. Thanks for your support!. This is one of those books that would be fruitful to read yearly. There is so much that we can learn from this classic.
Here are 10 of my favs from A.W. Tozer’s The Knowledge of the HolyFull Disclosure: At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click this link and make a purchase. Thanks for your support!.
Knowledge of the Holy
“When the Scripture states that man was made in the image of God, we dare not add to that statement an idea from our own head and make it mean ‘in the exact image.’ To do so is to make man a replica of God, and that is to lose the unicity of God and end with no God at all. It is to break down the wall, infinitely high, that separates That-which-is-God from that-which-is-not-God” (p. 7).
“We can never know who or what we are till we know at least something of what God is. For this reason the self-existence of God is not a wisp of dry doctrine, academic and remote; it is in fact as near as our breath and as practical as the latest surgical technique” (p. 28).
“Need is a creature-word and cannot be spoken of the Creator” (p. 32).
“There is no reason for us to try to discover what has not been revealed. It is enough to know that God is God” (p. 46).
“How completely satisfying to turn from our limitations to a God who has none” (p. 47).
“The immutability of God appears in its most perfect beauty when viewed against the mutability of men. In God no change is possible; in men change is impossible to escape” (p. 50).
“God knows instantly and effortlessly all matter and all matters, all mind and every mind, all spirit and all spirits, all being and every being, all creaturehood and all creatures, every plurality and all pluralities, all law and every law, all relations, all causes, all thoughts, all mysteries, all enigmas, all feeling, all desires, every unuttered secret, all thrones and dominions, all personalities, all things visible and invisible in heaven and in earth, motion, space, time, life, death, good, evil, heaven, and hell” (p.56).
“All God’s acts are done in perfect wisdom, first for His own glory, and then for the highest good of the greatest number for the longest time” (p.60)
“God’s holiness is not simply the best we know infinitely bettered. We know nothing like the divine holiness. It stands apart, unique, unapproachable, incomprehensible and unattainable. The natural man is blind to it. He may fear God’s power and admire His wisdom, but His holiness he cannot even imagine” (p. 104).
“God is said to be absolutely free because no one and no thing can hinder Him or compel Him or stop Him. He is able to do as He pleases always, everywhere, forever” (p. 109)
Want to study more about God? I’ve put together a reading plan with Bible verses about God. This reading plan bookmark includes 12 different truths about God put into an easy-to-use reading plan bookmark. Perfect to help you BELIEVE BETTER!
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