Q. I received two very similar requests this month so I’m going to answer them at the same time. They were:
“I need suggestions on how to be more spiritual through prayer and Bible study.”
and
“How do you find time to study the Bible?”
A. Sometimes it may seem like there just isn’t enough time in the day. How are we supposed to study the Bible, do homework, go to school, play sports, and still have time to be teenagers? It may be impossible to get everything done, so we need to prioritize. Of course, God needs to be our first priority. My preacher gave one of the best suggestions I have heard about incorporating Bible study into everyday life. He recommends devoting at least 10 minutes every morning to quiet Bible reading and meditation. You may only read a few verses a day, but it’s better than nothing. It’s best to conduct this activity in the morning, if possible, because the evenings are often too busy, and our days tend to get away from us. In the morning, one’s mind is clearer, less troubled, and refreshed. Pretty soon, those 10 minutes will turn into 15-, 20-, and even 30-minute sessions. Remember that we are commanded to “study to show thyself approved unto God” (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV). As far as prayer is concerned, the only thing I can suggest is to do so everyday. Don’t pray only when you want something from God. It’s important to thank him daily and to talk to Him about your problems. Ask for His guidance, and seek advice in His word. For example, you could turn off your radio in the car on your way to school, helping you to meditate and talk to God while you drive. Be careful though—it could be dangerous to concentrate on praying if you’re an inexperienced driver. You could even pray in the shower. Don’t limit your praying time to only when conducting other activities, though. It’s important to fully devote yourself to prayer. A good time for this would be before and/or after your daily bible study. It doesn’t matter where, as long as you can devote your mind to it. You can choose to make God your best friend, or a mere acquaintance with whom you only exchange a few words every other day. In order to have a close, spiritual relationship with God, you have to speak with him on a daily basis as if He is your best friend. You can’t call God or email Him, but our avenue, prayer, is even easier—we only have to start talking.
– Rachel Conley
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