Summer is Here

June, 2002

by: Lisa Hughes

Summer is here! And with summer comes a break in most Bible Studies, which can pose a challenge to your spiritual growth. Regular times in the Word are a necessity for growing in your walk with the Lord. Here are some ideas you can try over the summer to keep your time in the Word of God vital and ever deepening.

1. Try to read through the entire Bible before your next study begins in the fall.
2. Do a topical study of an area you are struggling with, an area you've wanted to study (but didn't have the time!). For example, study the “do not fret” and “do not be anxious” passages of the Bible if you are struggling with anxiety. Using a concordance, look up every passage in the Bible that talks about that topic and write it down. With each verse, note how it is used in the passage (context), who is not to be anxious, any application, what truths you learn about God. Then summarize what you have learned. Now apply what you have learned! Try memorizing the top ten verses that encourage you.
3. Read through the book of Proverbs every day for a month (31 chapters — 31 days in a month). In a notebook record what you learn about different types of people: the fool, the scoffer, the boisterous woman, the righteous. Then summarize what you learn about each person and what they do. You can also do this with topics like the tongue, discipline, or sluggardliness.
4. Read through a book of the Bible every day for 30 days. Each day record what you observe, what you learn about the book. Always look for the purpose of the book, the flow (how is it put together), what you learn about God's character, and any commands you are to obey.