2 Timothy 2:15
Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needed not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Are you disciplining yourself and studying as a way of life?

In order to live a life that God approves, you need a training plan. You have to study. It is a commandment, and it requires discipline. You need to read commentaries, different versions of the Bible, devotionals, books, etc. You should continue in prayer, as you read, in order to get revelation. Revelation is a necessary thing. Add to your training plan, spending time in worship and praise. You develop and construct your plan based on who you are, your experiences and the information you have acquired. Finally, but most importantly, you need the presence of God, evident in your life, to make “informed choices about your plan”.

Proverbs 4:1-2, 5 Hear, O children, the instruction of a father, And pay attention [and be willing to learn] so that you may gain understanding and intelligent discernment. 2 For I give you good doctrine; Do not turn away from my instruction. 5 “Get [skillful and godly] wisdom! Acquire understanding [actively seek spiritual discernment, mature comprehension, and logical interpretation]! Do not forget nor turn away from the words of my mouth. (Amplified Bible)

This is the foundation of your plan. God’s evident presence intensifies when you spend more time with Him. Time spent with Him when you study, pray, praise, and worship makes your relationship with Him stronger. The stronger your relationship, the more you will want to spend time with Him. Can you see the circular motion of this plan? It keeps repeating itself and you get stronger and stronger with each cycle.

Please agree with me as I pray:

Father, I thank You for leading me to a place of discipline, so my relationship with You is not hit and miss. I have learned that I can not just read the Bible, I must also study it, pray, praise, and worship. My desire is to be approved by You. You have instructed me to get understanding in all that I get. Thank You for the understanding I have gained and continue to gain. Please be honored by my efforts. Thank You for enlightenment and divine information. Thank You for a true and real relationship. I am coming to know You more and more. With each revelation, I can stand stronger; I can live like I trust and believe You and I can allow Your manifested glory to shine through me…