“How useful soever this book of books is in itself, it will be of no use to us if we do not acquaint ourselves with it, by reading it daily, and meditating upon it, that we may understand the mind of God in it, and may apply what we understand to ourselves for our direction, rebuke, and comfort, as there is occasion.” — Matthew Henry

“The Bible consists of a series of letters from the Heavenly Father to His dear children. Then let us cherish them as such, and act accordingly… I seriously doubt if God has called or requires you to ‘study’ His Word—what you need to do is FEED thereon.” — A.W. Pink

I studied commentaries and thesis for many years before I discovered the Word itself was speaking to me.

John 14:15-17 English Standard Version

Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit

 “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you.”

This is when I stopped relying on what others thought about the Word and began listening to the Word.

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

Ephesians 6:17 …the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God,

Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.

The Good Physician knows where to cut and do no harm.