By Tim Bryant, Board Chair
“I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” (Psalm 119:11, NLT)
We live in such an amazing time with so much information at our fingertips. From history to current news, from recipes to how-to videos on any subject, the “information age” is continually changing and growing around us. This, of course, is true for access to God’s Word as well. Like the knowledge available to us with a click of the mouse, there has never been a time when the Word of God was more accessible, and perhaps more needed. Ironically, the very technology that provides so much access to His Word comes with so many distractions that quieting our hearts and focusing on His Word is a real challenge.
Hiding His Word in our hearts doesn’t come naturally. It takes time, focus and thought. It requires us to find a quiet place to focus—thus, why so many call their daily time in the Word a “quiet time.” I’m thankful for the many hours of Bible Study that I was exposed to as a young Christian. It set the foundation for my faith and my overall understanding of the Word.
So, what can you do to help hide His Word in your heart? It does take personal discipline, but there are some things you can do to make it easier and, hopefully, a richer experience. Grab your Bible, a notebook and a pen and …
1. Use an inductive Bible study approach by asking these three questions and writing down the answers:
- Observe – What does this verse say? (Copy the verse.)
- Interpret – What does it mean? Restate the verse differently to bring clarity.
- Apply – What does it mean for my life? Write down how it applies to you.
2. If you don’t know where to start, you can read the Gospels or focus on the red letters of Jesus’ words, or simply study the promises of God throughout the Bible and write them down.
3. Visit Scripture Awakening online, where you will find multiple resources to help you plan and succeed at reading and hiding God’s Word in your heart. Their Mission is to provide resources to equip you to READ, STUDY and LIVE God’s Word, awakening you to its transformative power for your life, community and world.
Remember the wisdom of Solomon—Proverbs 4:20-22 (NLT):
“My child, pay attention to what I say. Listen carefully to my words. Don’t lose sight of them. Let them penetrate deep into your heart, for they bring life to those who find them and healing to their whole body.”
