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Post by Guest on Dec 9, 2013 1:45:20 GMT -5
Mike, what do you say to the believer that is saved but doesn't read their bible? They go to church, and then pray as they find fit. They want to read their bible and pray more... Of course they feel convicted that they don't do this.
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Post by Mike Miller on Dec 11, 2013 17:54:45 GMT -5
First, I would encourage that person to come up with a plan. So many people fail at reading their Bibles because they don't approach it in any orderly fashion. They pick it up occasionally and just open to some random page, and the next day they don't know what to do. Therefore, they do nothing. Not only are there many reading plans online (and downloadable to smartphones), but coming up with a plan is not that difficult. I might tell a person, "Read the Gospel of Luke or the book of Philippians. Start with reading a minimum of a section (not a full chapter--just go from subheading to subheading) a day. This won't take long, and you can read more if you want to." This will help them develop a habit without being overwhelmed thinking they have to read large quantities at every setting.
I would also encourage the person to have a partner. Maybe you can offer to be the partner. Tell the person you will each read a section each day (maybe you can even divide it up for the two of you). Agree to touch base every day or once a week to see how each of you are doing. If the person really wants to read the Bible, this could be the incentive needed to get started.
Next, encourage the person to jot down just one or two thoughts about the portions read. In fact, have the person try to find one thing a week to write down to remember and to talk with you about. This can help the daily reading from becoming simply a boring exercise to check off a to-do list.
Finally, encourage your friend to be involved in a Bible study. Hopefully, this will help in both educating the person and getting the person excited about the Bible as new truths and sound principles for interpreting the Bible are being learned.
Be encouraged, and encourage your friend. This person is experiencing the conviction of the Holy Spirit, which is a very good thing. In fact, this is evidence of your friend's salvation. Be sure and pray for your friend and be encouraging (don't nag). You can be an excellent example and guide in this process.
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Post by Guest on Dec 12, 2013 23:11:57 GMT -5
Thank you for your time and reply! This is very helpful!
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