Personal Bible Study - The Path to Intimacy
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” John 1:1 (NAS)
When I was as child, my Mother taught me to have a daily devotional time with the Lord; but she also encouraged me to seek God through personal Bible study – a more in-depth and longer period of time with God in His word. My personal and group Bible study activities have proven to be the building blocks that shaped the foundation of my spiritual life –intimacy with Jesus Christ – and the driving passion in my ministry. As a result, I have learned more about God and experienced His love in my own life; and He has fanned the flame of passion in my heart for women to experience the same blessing of personal Bible study.
I have participated in many different types of Bible studies. Without fail, I always begin my own pursuit to know God and what He is communicating to me, digging for gold – that additional personal meaning – and ways to share that treasure with the women in my small group so that they really understand the material we are studying.
From beginning to end, the Bible is God’s story of relationship – His desire and pursuit to have an intimate relationship with man. As in any relationship, the key to knowing God intimately is to spend time with Him, learning His thoughts and His ways. That cannot happen without consistent, quality time in His Word. Personal and group Bible study creates that opportunity.
God created us and knows us intimately. Psalms 139:13 says, “For You formed my inward parts; You wove me in my mother’s womb.” Jeremiah 12:3 says, “But You know me, O LORD; You see me; and You examine my heart’s attitude toward You …”
And God invites us to know Him intimately as well. James 4:8 says, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you …” Jeremiah 29:13 says, “You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.”
God has wired women with the specific need to have fulfilling relationships. Naturally we look for that need to be satisfied in people. Although relationships with one another are one of God’s wonderful gifts to us, He wants to satisfy us fully in Himself. As we immerse ourselves in God’s Word through Bible study, we learn more and experience His great love for us. The overflow of His love spills out – allowing us to have truly meaningful relationships with others.
Developing an intimate relationship with God through personal Bible study has changed my life. I have learned that a relationship with God is fully satisfying – even a part from all the good things He offers – including ministry opportunities and friendships with other women who love Him too. And, when God allows all of them to be experienced together, it’s a real joy.
Philippians 3:10a “[For my determined purpose is] that I may know Him [that I may progressively become more deeply and intimately acquainted with Him, perceiving and recognizing and understanding the wonders of His Person more strongly and more clearly] …” (AMP)