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At Milepost Four
If you have completed Books 1, 2 and 3 of Studies In Christian Living, you already know the profit of personal Bible study…what it means to search the Scriptures and come up with answers. You have probably noticed how the Word you have quarried out for yourself has affected your attitudes and actions day by day.
But even though you believe in systematic Bible study, it's likely you will sense opposition as you continue it. And there's a reason. The enemy of every Christian, Satan himself, knows the power of God's Word in your life and he will try at every turn to keep you from it. He will suggest such excuses as, "You're too busy"…"You can't concentrate now—do this little thing first, then get to Bible study." He will engineer interruptions, temptations and even criticism by others to hinder you from giving your attention to the Word of God.
Just recognizing that Satan is the source of such hindrances is helpful. It re-emphasizes the importance of Bible study, and can spur your determination to gain victory.
How to win? Here are some suggestions:
First, accept by faith the victory that Christ has already won over Satan and all his works. "But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ" (I Corinthians 15:57).
Second, seek the Lord's wisdom and strength.
Third, use personal discipline. No spiritual exercise becomes automatic. Just as you have to make an effort to keep up your daily time with the Lord, so you must plan and zealously guard your study time. It's good to set a definite goal for a certain amount of study to be completed each week, and be diligent in reaching that goal. "The desire accomplished is sweet to the soul…" states Proverbs 13:19, and a certain satisfaction is yours when you reach a given objective as planned.
Fourth, arrange with a friend to check each other weekly on completed goals in Bible study…and perhaps share something you received from it.
This fourth book concerns what you as a Christian should aspire to be in Christ. It deals with the basis of Christian character—the life of Christ in us; virtues expected in the Christian's life; and how to discover God's will. Its five chapters are…