Session 5

The benefits that come from reading the Bible

From Psalms: A 28-Day Devotional

The Bible can be an overwhelming book of books. Sixty-six books, written over thousands of years, all put together in one. Within its pages, you’ll find letters, stories, proverbs, poetry, genealogies, and prophecy.

To some, the Bible is just stories of people who died long ago. But it can be so much more than that—if we let it be.

When we see the Bible as God’s Word, as God speaking to us and revealing His wisdom and truth, it changes the way we read. Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”

Approaching the Bible as “living and active” changes the game. The psalmist asks, “How can a young person stay on the path of purity...” (Psalm 119:9)? But, really this question could be anything: How do I keep my marriage pure? How do I love a difficult friend? How do I minister to those around me? The answer is the same, “By living according to your word” (Psalm 119:9).

Reading and memorizing Scripture changes us. It fills our hearts with wisdom, showing us how to respond to any situation (Psalm 119:11). It teaches us who we are as God’s children, so we can combat sin and temptation (Psalm 119:13). And as God’s Word shapes us and changes us, our relationship with Him deepens.

Spending time in the Bible allows us to hear from God Himself — an experience that fills us with more joy and awe than just reading a book ever could (Psalm 119:14-16).

God’s Word is powerful. It is wisdom and truth, living and active, a place to go for comfort and joy. Spending time in the Bible is one way God speaks to us, and we get to experience His life-changing joy and power in our lives.  

Reflect:

• How much time to do you spend reading the Bible vs. reflecting on what you learned? 
• What’s one question you’re asking or problem you’re facing? How does the Bible speak to that issue? 
• When was the last time you really delighted in your Bible reading time? Maybe it’s time to mix things up. Try a new study or pick a new time of day to meet with God.