Communication is probably one of the most important aspects of growing in a relationship. A husband and wife, child and parent or employer and employee will grow in their relationship if communication is kept open.
When there is no communication, a relationship could enter a stagnant state or even shrivel away. Every believer is called to grow in the area of spiritual devotional because this is our way of communicating with our God.
There are various ways that God speaks to us, but the most common way is through His Word, so to grow in Bible reading and Bible study will help us listen to God better as we talk to Him through prayer.
There is no substitute for partnering with God's Spirit to bring life to His Word. It is only through the Holy Spirit that we find inspiration and revelation through the Bible, but we can also do our own small part to improve our Bible study. Here are five simple practices that will help improve our Bible study.
Isolate yourself. Matthew 14:23 shows us how Jesus would spend time with the Father: "And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray." Isolation takes out all hindrance and helps us focus on God's leading voice.
Meditate on the Word. Joshua 1:8 says, "This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it."
Meditation calls for us to be still and listen to God's voice as we reflect upon His Word and learn how we can apply it in our daily life.
Memorize Scripture. You won't always have a Bible with you, but that doesn't mean you cannot have access to God's Word. For instance, while driving my car, I often say aloud the verses I have memorized to remind myself of God's goodness (and to deal with my temper caused by the traffic.)
Write your revelations in a journal. There is a certain miracle behind a pen and paper that helps us digest ideas better. Writing down your revelations also gives you something to return to whenever you have the time to review the words, instructions, commands and promises that God has given you specifically.
Invest in your devotionals. If it's really worth it, you'll put your money into it. I'm a runner, and I like investing in gadgets that help me run better. But before I am a runner, I am a student of God's Word, so I invest a lot of money in commentaries, concordances, books and tools that help me study God's word better. Matthew 6:21 tells us, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
