STUDY - REWARDING AND ENJOYABLE

Effort and Effective Tools Needed

Deep Bible study requires effort. This fact emerges very clearly from a careful reading of Proverbs 2:1-6. Notice the active verbs that wise King Solomon used to underscore the effort needed to acquire divine knowledge, wisdom and discernment. He wrote: "My son, if you will receive my sayings and treasure up my own commandments with yourself, so as to pay attention to wisdom with your ear, that you may incline your heart to discernment; if, moreover, you call out for understanding itself and you give forth your voice for discernment itself, if you keep seeking for it as for silver, and as for hid treasures you keep searching for it, int hat case you will understand the fear of Jehovah, and you will find the very knowledge and discernment." Yes, rewarding study requires research, digging as if searching fora hidden treasure.

Spiritually enriching study also requires good study methods. Solomon wrote: "If an iron tool has become blunt and someone has not whetted its edge, then he will exert his own vital energies." (Ecclesiastes 10:10) If a workman uses a cutting tool that is not sharp or if he does not use it skillfully, he will waste his energy and his work will be shoddy. Likewise, the benefits from time spent studying may vary greatly, depending on our study methods. Excellent practical suggestions for improving the way we study can be found in Study 7 of the Theocratic Ministry School Guidebook.

When a craftsman sets about his work, he lays out the tools he will need. Similarly, when we begin a study period, we should select in our personal library the study tools we will need. Remembering that study is work and requires mental effort, it is also good to adopt an appropriate posture. If we wish to stay mentally alert, sitting on a chair at a table or a desk may prove to be more effective than lying in bed or sitting in a cozy armchair. After concentrating for awhile, you might find it beneficial to do some stretching or go outside for some fresh air.

Many incomparable study tools are also available to us. Foremost among these is the New World Translation of the Bible, now available in whole or in par in 37 languages. The standard edition of the New World Translation is equipped with cross-references and a "Table of the Books of the Bible" that provides the name of the writer, the place written, and the time period covered. It also has an index of Bible words, an appendix, and maps. In some languages, this Bible is printed in a larger edition, known as the Reference Bible. It contains all the above features and many more including extensive footnotes, which are also indexed. Do you take full advantage of what is available in your language in order to help you dig deeper into God's Word?

Another priceless study tool is the two-volume Bible encyclopedia Insight on the Scriptures. If you possess this work in a language you can understand, it should be your constant companion when you study. it will supply you with background information on most Bible topics. A similarly helpful tool is the book "All Scripture Is Inspired of God and Beneficial. " When beginning to read a new book of the Bible, it is good to examine the corresponding study in the "All Scripture" book to get the geographical and historical setting, plus a summary of the Bible book's contents and their value to us. A recent addition to the many tools in printed form is the computerized Watchtower Library, now available in nine languages.

Jehovah has provided all these tools by means of "the faithful and discreet slave" to enable his servants on earth to 'seek and find the very knowledge of God.' (Proverbs 2:4, 5) Good study habits enable us to come to a better knowledge of Jehovah and to enjoy a closer relationship with him. (Psalm 63:1-8) Yes, study means work, but it is work that is enjoyable and rewarding. It does take time, however, and you are probably thinking, 'Where can I find time to do justice to my Bible reading and personal study? This aspect will be considered in the closing article of this series.

Next time: BUYING OUT TIME FOR READING AND STUDY

Watchtower, 2000