In our hectic world, it is easy to get busy and distracted forgetting to stop and take time in the Scriptures.  Sure, we may make certain that we read our daily portion, but how often do we really sit and take a topic or passage and dig in deep?  I know that I wish I did it more often.  While it is not something that you can do every day, it is something we need to make a regular habit.  Whether we do it on Shabbat or as a monthly “date with the Messiah”, we need to make sure we are not contenting ourselves with the shallow soil but choosing to make the soil of our lives deep and fertile. 

This begins with an attitude of always wanting to continue learning.  If I am reading my Bible and come across a topic that interests me, I take notes and ask myself questions of what would I like to know more about on this topic.  This may sit in my notebook for a few weeks, but it helps give me a foundation to begin my study upon. 

Throughout all my studies, it is important to never have a “know it all” attitude.  That only leads to pride which will get you into trouble.  Proverbs 16:18 says “Pride goes before destruction, and arrogance before failure.”  It is easy to begin to be proud of what we have learned from Scripture; however, it is not about how much we know.  Rather, we should be seeking to have a deep and meaningful personal relationship with the Messiah Yeshua.  James 4:6b gives us a very strong warning of “God opposes the arrogant, but to the humble he gives grace.”  We do not want Yahweh Himself to oppose us, so even as we grow in knowledge and understanding, we need to keep a humble heart. 

As we study, it is important to learn good study habits.  There are five key areas to help us in our study: Context, Culture, Language, Good sources of information, and teachings or study courses. 

I first like to begin by reading the passage or topic I am studying in context of the Scripture it was written in.  Be careful not to cherry pick the verse you want and change the meaning by eliminating the context of the original writing.  If it is a specific topic, make sure to study the topic not just in one place in Scripture, but throughout the entire Bible.  It is way too easy to create a doctrine from one verse out of context. 

Secondly, understanding the culture is another important aspect.  Without the backdrop of the culture, it is easy to miss comprehending the common issues of the day as well as the idioms used in Scripture.  By understanding what was going on around the passage as the events were happening and being taught helps to deepen the meaning and context of your study.

Furthermore, language offers us many profound understandings.  Looking at the original meanings of words in the Hebrew gives us a much larger yet specific picture.  For example, in looking at Shabbat, we know that it is the seventh day of the week and a day of rest.  Yet, if we understand the Paleo Hebrew pictures making up the word Shabbat, we understand that it means “destroy the past and return to the covenant.”  By keeping Shabbat, we are destroying all of the pagan past we may have had and returning to the depth and richness of the covenant with Messiah.  You see that concept throughout Scripture which you can then tie back to the meaning of the word itself.  Learning at least the basic concepts of Hebrew can give a richness to our study that we often miss in the English only. 

Good sources of information is another important piece.  You can find someone who agrees with pretty much any concept if you look long enough on the internet; however, is it a valid source?  Making sure that you are using a reputable source of information which can be verified is important in your studies.  As one Torah Teacher always puts “believe nothing I say, verify everything”, we need to verify everything we read against Scripture; however, good sources can help us in our studies and open doors we may not have thought of.

Likewise, reading or listening to teachings on a topic or passage that we are studying can help us.  We might even be able to find a good study course to take.  Do not be afraid to seek out someone who can encourage you to continue to grow and share their expertise. 

As you study, it is important to take notes.  Our brains are an amazing work of God; however, there is no way that I can retain every piece of information I read or hear.  Taking notes helps me to write my thoughts out clearly.  It also allows me to note down sources of a concept or portion of understanding.  In addition, I can write down other questions I come upon during my study for further follow up.

During your study, it is important to bounce ideas and concepts off other believers for accountability.  If we isolate ourselves and allow only our personal studies to be our guide, we can allow ourselves to be misled.  Having the accountability of sharing what we are learning with others challenges us to make sure that we remain on the firm foundation of the Scriptures only. 

Finally, remember all the studying in the world can only be head knowledge if you do not include the practical application of what does this mean for my life?  How am I using this information to transform how I think?  How I act? And what I do?  Do my words and beliefs reflect my continued studies?  Or am I only accumulating dusty volumes of information? 

I pray that you continue to study making it a priority in your life and use that knowledge to grow your personal spiritual life and relationship with Messiah as well as use it to encourage and lift up fellow believers as you walk out what you have learned.