When I read the Bible I just do not understand what is going on.  I have a hard time seeing how the Bible is relevant for my family in today's society. These are sentences I hear too often. Unfortunately, we live in a time when many do not read and study (i.e., seek to learn) from God’s inspired word. How important is Bible study to you? Is being affluent in knowledge of the scriptures toward the top of your priorities? The Ephesian brethren we told not to be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. (Ephesians 5:17) In 2 Timothy 2:15 Timothy was instructed to be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the truth. We should work just as hard as the first century Christians did to find and know God's will for mankind.

The Bible should not be read as a novel or a fictitious short story for mere entertainment. We live in a world that is entertainment driven. From 24 hour television, concerts, sports events, to "worship services" that are purely entertainment, Americans expect to be entertained in almost everything. The Bible is an instruction booklet on how to get our souls to heaven. It should be read and studied in a serious manner.

Study a few verses or a chapter at a time and take notes. One of the greatest aids in my personal study has been to study in "small chunks." Write down points you believe are relevant and other items of importance concerning the text. These could aid you in your study at a later time.

Don't be overwhelmed by the size of the Bible. Some open the front cover - begin at Genesis - read a chapter or two - and rationalize, there's too much here - I'll never know it all. Bible study involves time and a steadfast commitment. The more time that is invested the more knowledge will be gained. Bible study is a life long process.

Don't be fooled by the popular thinking that to understand the Bible one has to go to "Bible school." The Bereans in Acts 17:11 never attended a seminary or "bible school." They were able to reach an understanding of Scripture. Luke says, they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so. There is little doubt they profited greatly from their knowledge of God’s will!

The Bible is relevant for all generations of mankind. How?

The Bible contains information on how to be saved. What better argument for relevance than this? As long as mankind exists, there will be someone who will need to be saved. God's plan of salvation is found ONLY in the Bible! Jesus said, No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws Him; and I will raise him up at the last day. It is written in the prophets 'And they shall all be taught by God.' Therefore everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to Me. (Jhn. 6:44-45) Later in John 8:32 Jesus said, You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free. That truth is found in the Bible - see John 17:17.

The Bible will help one become a better Christian. As stated earlier, the Bible is the set of instructions on getting one's soul to heaven. We must put away the things of the world and follow after Jesus’ example. On every page, we can learn something that can improve our life (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

The Bible will help the Christian bring others to Christ. When we study Scripture we cultivate an awareness of the danger of a soul becoming lost to the fires of hell. This consciousness should motivate the Bible student to tell others about the salvation found in Jesus Christ. Peter spoke of our responsibility on this in 1 Peter. 3:15...sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear. Are you living up to this standard?

The Bible will help one become prepared to stand before God on judgment. Hebrews 9:27 says, it is appointed for men to die once, but after this, the judgment. There will be a day of reckoning for mankind. All men will stand before God and give an account of their actions on earth. (2 Corinthians 5:9-10) If one applies what he learns he can be prepared for this great day. Titus. 2:11-12 says, the grace of God has appeared to all men, teaching us that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age. This is very relevant to today's society and all future societies as well. Let us heed what we read!

The study of God's word is of tremendous importance. Don't let Satan fool you by drawing you away from its contents!