#fromhisgrace

[forhisgrace]

Phillipians 4:6

[forhisgrace]

[forhisgrace]

[forhisgrace]

Comparison

(notes from a mini - sermon i heard yesterday!!)

Galatians 6:4 | 1 Samuel 17:38-40

• normal part of life

• comparison is a thief -> steals identity and purpose

• David called a runt by his father while Saul was described as ‘very handsome’. yet David didn’t compare himself because…

• …David knew his identity and his purpose !!!

• which comparison is a thief of!

• David knew his identity: he was A Part of Gods Kingdom -> gave him assurance

• my identity only in Jesus, not other things (e.g. talents or no. of friends)

• if you don’t have a purpose, you’ll only follow others…

• … pursue YOUR identity and YOUR purpose - we are all people different

• we all have a purpose - God makes no accidents/mistakes

• your identity ≠ your purpose (e.g. purpose may be to be a teacher but identity is always that you are a Part of Gods Kingdom)

• social comparison is double edged sword - not purely negative-> can allow for growth

• Saul’s armour didn’t fit David (1 Samuel 17:38-40) -> others’ situations don’t fit us !!

• comparison can be inspiration or contradiction (of Gods word/gifts/plan)

• don’t subtract God’s Gifts to you for what seems appealing (e.g. don’t wish for a flashy lifestyle when your lifestyle now makes you seem warmer/kinder to others)

• comparison can inspire improvement (e.g. to be more like a friend whose very kind)

• if you cannot control comparison, TRUST GODS PLAN (Jeremiah 29:11)

• …for God has planned your steps

[forhisgrace]

welcome to my account 🫶

hi i’m Grace !! i’m a Pentecostal Christian, and saved as of august of 2023. i love Jesus, cats, and literature (feel free to discuss the last one with me i need more reader friends)

i want to post mainly (basic) theology, as well as basic analysis of Bible verses and passages, and tips for other christians on here.

feel free to give constructive criticism regarding my posts. im quite new to this (though i was raised christian), and will probably make a lot of mistakes !

any images posted on here are most likely from pinterest.

[forhisgrace]

original pin

[forhisgrace]

Studying the Bible Effectively: A Beginner's Guide

Studying the Bible can seem daunting at first, but with the right approach and tools, it can allow so much spiritual growth!! Whether you're new to the faith or a seasoned believer, having a structured method can improve and ease your experience. Here's a straightforward guide to help you get started on your Bible study journey!

Choosing a Translation

One of the first decisions to make when studying the Bible is choosing a translation that suits your needs and preferences. There are several translations available, each with its own approach to translation. Here are the three categories they fall into.

1. Word for Word Translation: These translations, such as the King James Version (KJV) or English Standard Version (ESV), aim to follow the original texts as closely as possible, offering a literal rendering of the words and phrases. They are great for detailed study and analysis of the text.

2. Thought for Thought Translation: These translations prioritize clarity and readability, conveying the original meaning in modern language by updating language to be mor relevant to modern readers. They are ideal for easy comprehension, especially for beginners or those looking for a straightforward understanding.

3. Paraphrased Translation: These translations capture the essence or gist of the message rather than focusing on precise wording. They are often easier to understand and are suitable for new believers or younger children. However, they are most likely to stray from the original text and can sometimes be slightly inaccurate.

When I am reading to spend time with God (such as my daily reading) I use NLT, which is a thought for thought translation and therefore easier to understand. However, during bible study it is advisable to keep a word for word translation on hand (I use the KJV translation in the YouVersion bible app alongside a physical copy of the NLT).

Establishing a Study Routine

1. Prayer: Before sitting down to read, it's essential to prepare yourself spiritually and mentally. Begin your study session with a prayer, asking God to open your mind and heart to His word and guide you in your understanding.

2. Reading the Passage: Start by reading the passage without taking notes or annotating. Try to grasp the overall message and what God is communicating to you.

3. Annotation and Reflection: Read the passage again, this time making notes of any observations, questions, or insights that come to mind. Consider who is involved, what is happening, why, when, and how. Reflect on the message God is conveying through the text.

4. Consulting Study Tools: Dive deeper into the passage by using study tools such as Bible commentaries, online resources, or cross-referencing different translations. This helps gain a broader perspective and insight into the text. They often also include historical context and reasons for writing.

5. Application: Reflect on how the passage applies to your life. Identify one or two key messages and think about how you can incorporate them into your daily life. Is the scripture challenging you to change certain behaviours, draw closer to God, or strengthen your faith? Pray for guidance on how to apply these insights. Personally, I like to make an extra effort to apply these in the upcoming week.

Conclusion

Studying the Bible is not just about acquiring knowledge but also about cultivating a deeper relationship with God and living out His word in our lives. By choosing the right translation, establishing a study routine, and seeking guidance through prayer and study tools, you can embark on a fulfilling journey of spiritual growth and understanding. Remember, consistency and patience are key, so keep seeking God's wisdom as you delve into His word.

[forhisgrace]

heyy !!

i’d like to ask if Christians nowadays have to keep the Sabbath? i’ve always believed so but i’ve heard it’s Old Covenant? do beliefs about this differ across denominations?

thank you! 💗💗