Christian believers speak of the advantages of spending time reading the word of God. Once the practice of Bible study and reading has started and is continued, individuals reap deep benefits and blessings. Though some of the benefits are general, each individual also can testify to highly personalized experiences that another person would never have.
Spirit Nourishing Benefits of God’s Word
Here are ten spirit nourishing benefits of Bible reading. The Bible:
1. Gives strength and guidance for life’s journey: God’s word is a primary source for giving a sense of direction when overwhelmed by our circumstances. Psalm 46:1-3; “God is our refuge and strength. A very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried unto the midst of the sea…”
2. Provides us with wisdom when we are at a loss: We dare not trust our own feelings. When Joseph remembered God’s words as Potiphar’s wife tried to seduce him, he decided he couldn’t sin against God by giving in. Genesis 39: 9; “How can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?”
3. Reminds us to live truthful, honest lives: Nothing is more nourishing to the soul than being at peace with yourself and living a transparent life. Hebrews 4:12; “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joint and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
4. Builds faith and increases trust in God: Searching the word of God and spending time in the Bible helps us to build up our belief as we see Him act in the lives of men and women. Rom. 10:17; “Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.”
5. Gives freedom: Reading the Bible gives us the understanding that God forgives our sins and relieves us of their weight. John 8:31–32; “…If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.”
6. Provides warning: Our soul needs strict words and warning as much as it needs soothing. We become more rounded individuals when we are answerable to a Higher Power. Psalm 19:11 “Moreover, by them, Your servant is warned; in keeping them there is great reward.”
7. Allows us to see clearly: God’s Word gives clarity to issues, dispelling uncertainty as His will and ways become obvious to us. In a world of uncertainty, the Bible provides vision. Psalm 119:105 “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.”
8. Makes us feel loved: It is in God’s Word that we come face to face with true love, a love that accepts us as we are; without judgment. This should make us joyful. Jeremiah 15:16 “Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and Thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of my heart.”
9. Provides security: God distinctly tells us that when everything else may be falling apart, His children can remain unfazed, secure in the knowledge that He’s ‘got this.’ Matthew 24:35 “Heaven and Earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.”
10. Shows how to be faithful in our lifestyle: In today’s world, lack of commitment and halfhearted efforts are evident everywhere. Reading the Bible gives us illustrations of faithfulness to people and tasks, which we can copy. Joshua 1:8. “…observe to do according to all that is written therein; for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.”
The Bible is versatile and speaks to every aspect of our life; therefore, the benefits of reading this Holy Book are numerous and far-reaching, inspiring you in both body and spirit.