As scientists have continued to search the Mariana Trench, which lies 26,000 feet under the Pacific Ocean’s surface, they’ve discovered a new species of fish never seen before—one which researchers describe as a mix between a puppy, an angel, and an eel. It’s mind-boggling and humbling to think that even after so much time and effort has been spent trying to understand this planet, there’s still so much that we don’t know about all that God has created.
Even more important, for thousands of years men and women of God have explored the depths of Scripture to know Him better. And because we know from John 1:1 that “the Word was with God, and the Word was God” who came in the flesh (Jesus), there’s no better means through which we can know more of God than through the Bible. And yet, we can’t understand God using our own wisdom and insight—we need the Holy Spirit to guide us. Paul made this clear as he instructed, “No one can know a person’s thoughts except that person’s own spirit, and no one can know God’s thoughts except God’s own Spirit” (1 Corinthians 2:11). It’s only through the Holy Spirit that we can begin to understand the deeper truths of God (1 Corinthians 2:10).
This is a crucial reminder for me as a pastor, but also for all believers, that an essential part of reading, understanding, and teaching Scripture is the work of the Spirit. Having grown up in a Christian home, I may sometimes feel that praying before doing any of these things is a ritual that has little purpose. Not so! Praying before diving into Scripture is so vital, for without the Spirit’s help we’ll simply scratch the surface of who God is and the amazing things He’s planned for us (1 Corinthians 2:9).
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Numbers 22:5-38
More:
Read 1 Corinthians 1:18-29 to learn more about the wisdom of God.
Next:
Do you pray before reading and studying Scripture? Why would it be helpful to do so?
Gary Shultz on February 22, 2016 at 5:51 am
Peter, God’s word and prayer are such a gift. God has provided once again and has made both His word and prayer personal and deep. As someone has said, as deep as we want to take it. I would venture that most people that stop at ODJ are students of this wonderful line of communication with God. A two way street of finding God’s heart, will, peace and wisdom. What a gift. What a God. Thank you Peter.
jim spillane on February 22, 2016 at 1:21 pm
Gary – I have a pastor who once told me that our Heavenly Father is more than willing to help us become as holy as we want to be. I find that interesting food for thought. Be blessed.
gagirllive on February 22, 2016 at 7:48 am
Great subject , Peter. For me, going into the deep with God involves an investment of time… and a lot of humility. Coming to Him with a teachable spirit and relying on the Holy Spirit to bring illumination is vital. I’m old-school and still prefer my physical Bible and other study tools over the tech stuff :). But one thing I have to be careful of is letting the familiar notes and highlights speak to me to the exclusion of hearing some new insight from the Spirit. Sometimes I do need to hear again what I already understand. He knows. I’m just so grateful that He speaks to me personally right where I am. I’m not seeking more information…it’s transformation that I want, and Spirit is the only One who can take the word and do that for me. Thanks for sharing this powerful truth, Peter!
godlove on February 22, 2016 at 7:56 am
“Praying before diving into Scripture is so vital” -thanks for this reminder Peter. In response to the “Next” question, I know I should but I must admit that I don’t always do… I really need to make it a habit.