Bible study should be every Christian’s lifelong pursuit. Because there’s so much material covering so many topics, names and events, I like to quote one of my favorite verses, Isaiah 28.10, to keep the right perspective. Take the time to read that verse slowly. Notice that Isaiah laboriously repeated each step: Precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, there a little.
I remember considering that verse while standing at the bottom of a tall brick building in New York City one day. I thought about how many single bricks had to be laid, and how each one had to be aligned perfectly to keep the building going straight up.
When God speaks to us through his word, it can be very exciting. Studying the Bible can also be a test of diligence, to be sure. It takes patience to get through some of the genealogies and historical references, but don’t give up. There are gems hidden in some of those passages if you remain alert. One of those that spoke to me over forty years ago that now comes to mind in this context is from Genesis (49.4 KJV): “Unstable as water, thou shalt not excel.” Be a stable person and hang in there! “He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” (Hebrews 11.6)
Make connections part of your Bible study
Back to our brick building metaphor. Notice that each brick is connected to several other bricks with mortar. Without that mortar, the stack of bricks would soon fall down. With it though, the entire wall becomes strong enough to withstand the strongest wind. God’s precepts similarly should be learned and applied in accord with all of his other precepts. I strongly recommend that you buy a good wide-margined Bible that leaves space for notes to make these connections part of your study. Use a couple of fine-point pens. One with black or blue ink for notes, and one with red ink to underline verses that you memorize. Your connections can include other Bible passages, lessons from teachers, and your own life experiences. Write small, be brief, and don’t be afraid to make corrections as you grow in the Lord.