Replacing Neglect in Bible Study with Bible Study and Meditation

Put Off-Neglect in Bible Study

2 Timothy 3:14-17

14.  But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you you have learned them,

15.  and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which in Christ Jesus.

16.  All Scriptures is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,

17.  that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Put on-Bible Study and Meditation

Psalm 1:2  

But his delight is in the law of the Lord,

And in His law he meditates day and night.

You can't just have a Bible sitting on a coffee table collecting dust.  I will admit that I have done that.  The problem with doing that was I couldn't grow as a Christian.  I had a very stagnant relationship with God.  I drew apart from Him.  He did not leave me; he stayed by me, pleading to me to come back.  And I did.  I am praying that I will not stray again.\\Studying the Bible has helped me revive my heart, to listen to God, to get a deeper understanding of God's word.

When I do a study, I need to have a journal with me.  I could have went through all these Put Offs and read the Bible verses that went along with them and then went on to the next lesson.  If I didn't meditate by writing in my journal, I would have forgotten what I had read within a day or two.

This pray is from https://www.crosswalk.com/faith/prayer/a-meditation-prayer.html

A Beautiful Meditation Prayer

Lord, quiet my heart and still my soul as I wait on you during these moments alone. I recognize you as a holy and majestic God—one who deserves great praise and glory. All of creation testifies to your awesome and unique works. There is no one like you, no other god worthy of honor. 

I want to focus on You, Lord, and to shut out all the distractions of the world. For these next few moments, it’s just you and me, God. You are Spirit, but you are a God who knows us so intimately. I like to imagine you literally sitting here beside me, because of your promise that you are Emmanuel—always “with us.”
As I think about the truths in your Word, may the meditation of my heart be sweet and honoring to you. I am not trying to clear out my mind. I simply want you to empty me of self and fill me with your Holy Spirit.

I long for your presence, Lord. Narrow my thoughts to include only those things that are honorable, truthful, beautiful, pure, and praiseworthy. I ask for your wisdom to apply these truths to my life morning, noon, and night—literally all through the day. For you are worthy to be praised all the time.

I remember your great faithfulness in the past and am so grateful that you shower fresh mercy and grace on me each morning. I rehearse your goodness through answered prayer and personal reminders to me daily of your love for me. Even when I feel alone or distant from you, you draw me back into your presence when I purposely slow down and draw close to you.
I treasure your Word and want to chew on the truths you reveal to me today. As I pull apart each piece and reflect on every principle and word of instruction, I’m asking you to guide me and teach me what you want me to know.

Is there a promise here for me to remember? Is there an action I need to take or a sin to forsake? Is there more for me to understand about your character? Help me personalize your message to my heart today. Your Word is powerful. I celebrate the strength and wisdom you will give me as I learn to honor and glorify you more.

I need you and love you, Lord. And I ask you to speak through your Word and in these quiet moments together. Whisper or shout into my spirit, whichever you want, and whatever I need the most. But most of all, just receive my praise as I focus my thoughts only on you. I’m listening and anticipating as I read and meditate on your beautiful Word.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.