From the archives of Sunflower Faith-Originally posted on February 22, 2008
This was a 7 part series on “Bible 101″ that I had originally written when my blog was hosted on blogspot.com. In the process of moving it over here, with prayers that this could be a blessing and encouragement to those who feel daunted about reading their bible and in light of reading “Becoming More than a Bible Study Girl”, I wanted to re-introduce these posts to you, Gentle Readers.
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The Bible- There is no way around it. If you are going to study the bible, what better source, than the direct source. No books about the bible is going to be just as effective as going to the bible itself. Keep in mind, the biggest reason is, books about the bible are written by men, who can be imperfect, so always consult the bible first and foremost and use anything and everything else as…well…a guide, not the absolute truth.
John 5:39 Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. (KJV)
2 Timothy 3:16,1716. All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17. That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. (KJV)
Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (KJV)
2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (KJV)
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Pens and Markers -This is a interesting topic. Some people don’t like marking in the bible; Some do. This is really up to you with what YOU feel more comfortable doing.For those who do want to mark in your bible with a pen,Soulde Saenz has a great blog article called,”What to Use for Writing in Your Bible,“. I highly recommend you reading this article as he talks about pens that will be effective in writing in your bible, no matter how thick or thin the paper is and what pen won’t bleed through to the other side of your bible.As for markers…I always go with either dry highlighters that you can find with ease at your local Christian bookstore or even order online from the christian online bookstores.Even Amazon carries them! They are highly recommend for their ease, they don’t bleed through, they don’t smear and they are bible-friendly. Another great way to mark your bible are colored pencils….Make sure no matter what you use…You keep it in a place WITH your bible.
Need a guide to highlighting/marking your bible? There are several great resources that are a great help; Some which I recommend are the following:
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How to Mark Your Bible by Keeping the Home (I HIGHLY recommend this site)
To make it even easier, based on “How to Mark Your Bible” by Keeping the Home, what I did was create a printable “key” to paste (I use rubber cement since it comes off if needed) in my bible.
- Prayer- Always always start with prayer! It does help because it gives you the opportunity to talk to God and to ask Him to help you understand what you are about to read and if there is anything, HE, feels, you need to glean from your studies.
- Notebook- This can be anything…your computer, your blog, your dayplanner, a simple notebook…There is no end to how you keep your notes.
If you do use a ringed dayplanner, here’s one that can be used for either a 5.5 x 8.5 planner, either 3 ring, 6 ring or 7 ring.
Great Sources for Using the Bible: Tools must have
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Bible Study Techniques and Tips by Rachel Lower
God Bless You, Gentle Reader as you read God’s word!
*Coming next week on Bible 101-”Books to Aid in Your Study”*
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