“For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the Law of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach statutes and ordinances in Israel.”
Ezra 7:10 · KJV
The Bible encourages believers to study Scripture to understand God's will, overcome sin, and grow spiritually. God's Word is divinely inspired, and understanding it requires both diligent effort and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Bible study is the practice of reading, examining, and understanding the Bible thoughtfully and systematically. Its purpose is to learn God's teachings, understand the historical and spiritual meaning of Scripture, and apply its truths to our daily lives.
Before the written Word of God was available, God spoke to His people through leaders, prophets, and priests. After Moses' time, the first five books of the Bible, known as the Torah, were given to God's people. The priests diligently studied God's Law and taught it to the people.
Ezra is a wonderful example of devotion to God's Word. He set his heart to study God's Word, obey it, and teach it to others.
Today, we are a generation with great privilege. We have the Bible in our hands in many different translations, and most people can read it in their own language. Yet many people do not make time to study God's Word or have little interest in doing so.
The world teaches us that education is important and that knowledge helps us succeed in life and work. However, many believers neglect the most important source of wisdom, the Word of God.
The Bible warns about the danger of lacking spiritual knowledge. God said, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge."
The book of Proverbs explains some of the benefits of studying God's Word:
- Gaining wisdom and instruction.
- Understanding words of insight.
- Receiving instruction in wise and prudent behavior.
- Learning to do what is right, just, and fair.
- Gaining prudence, knowledge, and discretion.
- Growing in wisdom and understanding.
- Receiving guidance for life's challenges.
Let us take personal time to study God's Word. But let us not stop with studying alone. We must also practice and obey what God teaches us. When we hear, believe, and obey His Word, we will experience its transforming power and receive its many blessings.