| In the spiritual
discipline of study, we engage ourselves, above all, with the
written and spoken Word of God. In Rom. 12:2 the apostle Paul
tells us that we are transformed through the renewal of the
mind, and that we cannot just simply copy the behavior of those
around us. The discipline of study is an important vehicle by
which our minds are renewed by those things that are important
to God. Study will help to release us from the bondage of fear
and anxieties, and replace that with the knowledge of God’s
grace, which will reach the depth of our hearts, minds and
souls.
Jesus said in John 8:32, "You will know the truth, and the
truth will make you free." Without the truth, we will not be
truly free. As we all know, this principle applies to every
area, whether we study biology, mathematics or science. But it
is especially true in reference to our spiritual walk. In this
discussion, we want to focus on our study of spiritual issues.
As we learn from each other, we will be able to identify
pitfalls, joys and challenges. The goal is to more fully
experience the liberation that study brings.
Key Scripture: Phil. 4:8
"Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable,
whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever
is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything
worthy of praise, think about these things."
What is your favorite time of the day? When do you feel most
energetic, alive and able to concentrate?
In your own words, describe what "study" means to you, and
what it does not mean.
In 1 Tim. 4:7 we read, "Don’t waste time arguing over foolish
ideas and silly myths and legends. Spend your time and energy in
the exercise of keeping spiritually fit." Studying the right
things is as important as studying altogether. How do you
determine what the right things for you to study are?
Outside the Bible, what book, teacher, lecture, etc. have had
the most profound impact on your spiritual life?
Have you ever had the experience that after careful,
analytical, serious study you changed your actions, opinion or
even life style? Please share an example with the group.
"He who studies
only men, will get the body of knowledge without the soul; and
he who studies only books, the soul without the body. He who, to
what he sees, adds observation, and to what he reads,
reflection, is in the right road to knowledge, provided that in
scrutinizing the hearts of others, he neglects not his own."
-Caleb Colton
Why does study produce joy?
Do you think our study affects those around us? How?
In the Old Testament, the Israelites were instructed to write
the laws on gates and doorposts and bind them to their wrists so
that "they shall be as frontlets between your eyes" (Deut.
11:18). The purpose of this instruction was to direct their
minds repeatedly and regularly towards God, and
His instructions on human relationships. Today, we no longer
take part in that practice. But how can we discipline ourselves
to regularly and repeatedly study God’s words to
make it easier for his laws to be written in our hearts? What
motivates you?
We live hectic, busy lives, and we are often pulled in many
different directions. How can we positively encourage one
another in the discipline of study? |
