GO
I want to tell you how I start my day. In the summer, I grab a latte, and in the cooler weather, a coffee, and read the First 5 app followed by a dose of scripture writing as well.
I'm doing a topical study on the Hebrew word "chesed," which means loyal, unfailing love and is often translated "kindness," or "mercy." There is not a good word in the English language to adequately describe chesed. (You could do a study on any word that interests you such as forgiveness, grace or prayer.)
I've discovered it is awesome to write out one scripture per day. Often we rush right by when studying the bible. We don't meditate on a word. We don't look up the context. We just read to mark off a checkbox on a page and feel good we've been in the Word.
And that is a totally fine practice. At least you are getting some of the Word.
My routine includes writing the scripture, often in both the NKJV and the NLT translations. Then I look up the context. Finally, I read at least one commentary on the passage to see if I understand what has been said.
The rest of the day, I dwell on it! It's a great way to start the day off right - feasting on the Word.
[stop]
I do need to mention you need to set aside 20-30 minutes for this practice. I know it is a big commitment, but what do you have to do that is more important?
I'm linking this post up to the following communities:
FiveMinuteFriday
Grace&Truth
#TuneInThursday
I've got the You version bible app on my phone and iPad but never heard of the first 5 app!! Thank You! I actually leading a small group this autumn with a study written by Lysa Terkeurst of Proverbs 31 Ministry. It's pretty good so far!
ReplyDeleteI LOVE writing out Scripture. It's how i was raised and it's a good way to actually get it into our hearts as well as our heads, plus it he,ps me memorize although I'm not all that good at it all the time, most of the scripture I've got memorized, i memorized as a little girl!!
I love quick devotionals but it's really important to just read right from the Word of God itself too, i tend to do devos in the morning before work, with a. Little journalin gif time and then the actual Bible reading after work before dinner as a way to unwind from the teaching job.
This was a really good post
The best way to start the day. I'm going to take your encouragement to write down a verse a day from my readings. Thanks for the info on the word from Hebrews. Our current sermon series is on the book of Hebrews.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great idea for study. I like the idea of writing scripture. I need to try that with my morning time in the word.
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