Understanding God’s word changes us and is important! Are you struggling to understand God’s word? No matter who you are, we all benefit from others helping us understand God’s word. It may be a teacher, a study, or the work of the Holy Spirit that gives us insight into God’s word.
I remember doing a two-year Bible study on Kings and Prophets that was life changing. Although I had read through the Old Testament several times, this study broke God’s word down in such away it was easy to understand. Because it was easy to understand I was better able to apply what I was learning. I also remember a study I did through a book of the Bible where the pastor made God’s word easy to understand and applicable to my own life. God can work in many ways to help us on our spiritual journey.
Levites Help God’s People Understand His Word
Ezra read the book of the Law (God’s Word) to the people, but later the Levites broke the people into smaller groups to explain God’s word to them. Nehemiah 8:8 They read from the Book of the Law of God and clearly explained the meaning of what was being read, helping the people understand each passage. [1]
God’s word does not change us just because we can read it. We need to understand what we are reading. God’s word can’t release its life transforming power until it is understood.
Understanding Precedes Transformation
Romans 12:2Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. [2]
It is important to note that God transforms you by changing the way you think. This transformed mind happens as you understand God’s truth. God’s word changes us as we meditate and pray for understanding. In addition, a new mind comes when we gather with other believers in Jesus to study the Word together. We cannot change our own minds, but we can be open to the Lord changing it through the power of His word. As the Lord transforms us, we become more aware of what His will is for our lives and have a desire to follow that path.
Ask the Lord for Understanding
Lord, thank you for this time You’ve given me to open Your Word and discover who You are. Thank You that you don’t leave us in the dark about who You are and what You are doing in the world, but that You have revealed Yourself and Your will through the Bible, Your sacred words to us. Lord, I need wisdom as I read Your Word. You promise us in James 1:5 that we only have to ask for wisdom to receive it. Lord, please give me your wisdom now as I approach your word. Help me discern the truth of this text. Help me not rely on my own understanding. Thank You, God, for the clarity, encouragement and hope Your Word brings. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.[3]
Understanding God’s Word changes us, to hear more:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/rebuilding-unfinished-hope-spiritual-renewal
[1,2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.
[3] https://www.godtube.com/devotionals/your-daily-prayer/a-prayer-to-pray-before-studying-god-s-word-your-daily-prayer-august-3-2017.html