I’ve been struggling lately to find an approach to Bible study that is simple yet pure, espousing not the philosophies of scholars but instead clear instructions on how to read God’s word for myself. I don’t need a fancy outline or a spreadsheet checklist. I don’t need a series with a catchy title. I just need guidance on how to approach this big, intimidating book resting on a shelf in my study. I need encouragement to lose my fear and to trust God to show me what He wants me to learn.
Sometimes it seems that the more I try to learn about Bible study the more confused I become. So many different theologies and philosophies and schools of thought. Which one is correct? Which one do I trust? I’ve longed believed the answer to that is easy. Believe only in what God Himself teaches me. But I still stump my toes when trying to discipline myself to read His word daily. It seems like it would be so much easier just to buy a trendy study guide from the closest Christian bookseller and fill in the blanks.
Recently, I stumbled upon a little book that addressed my concerns beautifully. Jen Hatmaker’s A Modern Girl’s Guide to Bible Study. If I had to sum up this book with a single word it would be this. Blessing. When I finished this little gem, I didn’t feel that Jen equipped me with a sure fire strategy for studying the Bible; I felt that she equipped me with a deep desire to grab that Bible off the shelf and taste it for myself! Jen’s words are funny, encouraging, and genuine. It is a wonderful read and will certainly lift anyone up who finds herself in a rut with her relationship with God.
My suggestion? Buy it. Borrow it. Download it. Whatever. Just read it. And go fall in love with Jesus all over again.
