We have been looking at striving or pursuing personal holiness. From Jonathan Edwards' resolutions we have found some guidance to achieve this type of holy walk. We have seen that we are to do all for the glory of God, put away all sin, and live with the knowledge of the link between eternity and the present. Today, we examine the necessity of personal discipline. God's grace in our lives enables us to obey God. However, we are responsible for what we do. One area that we need to discipline ourselves is in the study of God's Word. How would you describe your personal Bible study? Is the study of the Bible a desire or passion in your life? Do you understand that the Bible is God's instruction to us about Him and His relationship to us?
Edwards had a resolution concerning the study of God's Word: "Resolved, to study the Scriptures so steadily, constantly and frequently, as that I may find, and plainly perceive myself to grow in the knowledge of the same. (Resolution 28)." When is the last time God showed you something in His Word? Has it been a week, a month, or even a year? If you will discipline yourself to study God's Word, you may expect to hear from Him. Striving for holiness includes the study of the Scriptures.
I have taught that it is best to study early in the morning when you are the most alert. However, I have also said that it doesn't matter when you decide to feed your inner person as long as you feed that inner person before you feed your body. Make it a practice to take no physical food until you have taken some spiritual nourishment for your soul. You will see a difference in your spiritual life if you practice this simple rule.
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