A relationship with God is the most fulfilling and life-giving journey a person can embark on, and one of the most effective ways to deepen that relationship is through studying His Word. At the Mary Banks Global Training Center, we emphasize the importance of Bible study as a means of connecting with God, understanding His character, and aligning our lives with His will.
In this article, we’ll explore five practical ways to deepen your relationship with God through purposeful study, helping you experience the richness of His presence and the power of His truth.
1. Approach Study with a Heart of Prayer
Studying God’s Word is not just an intellectual exercise—it’s an encounter with the divine. Before you begin, pray for guidance and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the truth of His Word to you. Psalm 119:18 says, “Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.”
Pray for a heart that is teachable and open, asking God to soften any resistance within you and prepare you to receive His message. The simple act of inviting God into your study time changes your perspective, making it an intimate exchange rather than a mere routine.
2. Engage in Reflective Study by Meditating on the Word
Reading the Bible is essential, but taking the time to meditate on it allows God’s Word to settle deeply in your heart. Joshua 1:8 encourages us to meditate on the Word day and night, saying, “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein.”
Choose a passage or verse, read it slowly, and reflect on each word, phrase, and thought. Consider how it applies to your life, what God may be saying to you personally, and how it can change your outlook. This deeper reflection brings the scriptures to life, allowing God’s truth to resonate in your spirit and transforming your understanding.
3. Use a Study Method to Unlock Deeper Understanding
Having a structured approach to Bible study can help you dig deeper and uncover insights you might otherwise overlook. The SOAP method, for example, is a simple yet effective way to organize your study:
- Scripture: Write down the verse or passage you are studying.
- Observation: Note any key themes, words, or messages that stand out.
- Application: Reflect on how this passage applies to your life and how God wants you to act on it.
- Prayer: Conclude by praying about what you’ve learned, asking God to help you apply it.
Using a study method provides structure, helping you retain what you’ve read and apply it to your life. This process of observation, reflection, and prayer strengthens your relationship with God as you intentionally seek His guidance through His Word.
4. Seek Deeper Insight with Word Studies and Cross-References
To understand the Bible’s full message, it can be helpful to study specific words and explore cross-references. Using a concordance to look up key terms or studying the original Hebrew or Greek meanings can add depth to your understanding.
For example, examining the different Greek words for “love” (agape, phileo, and eros) reveals different facets of God’s love and how we are called to love others. Similarly, using cross-references to find related passages can reveal how themes and teachings are woven throughout the Bible. This deeper study not only enhances your knowledge but also brings you closer to God as you see the consistency and beauty of His Word.
5. Apply What You Learn and Live Out the Word
James 1:22 encourages us to “be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only.” The ultimate goal of Bible study is transformation—allowing God’s truth to change how we live, think, and interact with others. As you study, look for ways to apply what you’ve learned to your daily life. Whether it’s showing more patience, extending forgiveness, or deepening your prayer life, put your knowledge into action.
When we live out what we learn, our relationship with God grows stronger. We see His Word coming to life in our actions, experience the joy of obedience, and witness the positive impact it has on ourselves and those around us.
Conclusion: An Ongoing Journey of Discovery
Deepening your relationship with God through study is a lifelong journey. As you dedicate time to prayerful study, meditation, structured methods, deeper insights, and application, you will discover the profound beauty of God’s Word and experience a closer, more meaningful relationship with Him.
At the Mary Banks Global Training Center, we are here to support you on this journey, providing resources, guidance, and encouragement as you seek to grow in your faith. Remember, every time you open the Bible, you are taking a step closer to God, discovering more of His heart, His will, and His purpose for your life. Embrace this journey with joy and expectancy, knowing that God delights in revealing Himself to those who seek Him.
