Bible studies for January/February 2003

 

Study 4a: THE BELIEVER'S QUIET TIME

 

 

Regular attendance at fellowship meetings is good and commanded in the scriptures (Hebrews 10:25). Seasonal presence at christian conferences, retreats and workshops is God-ordained (Acts 16:13; Isaiah 1:13). But the believer’s daily walk with the Lord is linked very much to the quality of his personal devotion (John 15:5; Mark 1:35-45).

 

THE PURPOSE OF THE QUIET TIME
Mark 1:35; 6:46; Matthew 14:23; 1 Kings 19:7; John 15:5; 4:23; Exodus 33:11,14; 1 Peter 2:2; Joshua 1:8; Psalm 1:1-3; James 4:8; Isaiah 1:18; Ephesians 6:12

The quiet time affords us opportunity to follow the Lord’s example; receive strength and wisdom for the day’s continuation of life’s rugged journey; speedy spiritual growth, consistent, victorious christian living and steadfastness; fellowship with God and intimacy with His Son.

THE PERIOD OF THE QUIET TIME
Mark 1:35; Genesis 19:27; Psalm 5:3; 55:17; 88:13; 59:16; Ephesians 6:12

The quiet time is best done early in the morning when the mind is fresh and not yet occupied with the day’s activities. It is proper to start the day with God. It is better to put on the armour in the morning than any other time after the battle has been lost.

THE PARTS TO THE QUIET TIME
Mark 1:35; Isaiah 50:4,5; Luke 10:39; Psalm 66:18; 5:3; Genesis 19:27; John 5:39; Acts 17:11

The quiet time is a two-way traffic. During this time, God speaks to us as we study the scriptures and we talk to Him in prayer. Brief prayer, Bible reading plus meditation and then prayer is a good method to adopt.

THE PREPARATION FOR THE QUIET TIME
Luke 14:28-33; Matthew 7:24-27; Proverbs 24:27; 10:5; 14:1

Interests and profits are built on the bedrock of savings and investments. An effective quiet time sprouts on the soil of a wise and careful preparation. Early bed time helps early rising. Getting wide awake, assuming a comfortable but not sleep-inducing posture is also essential. Think of the quiet time before retiring for the day with great expectancy for God’s blessings.

THE PERSEVERANCE IN THE QUIET TIME
Philippians 4:13; James 4:7; 2 Peter 1:5-9; 2 Timothy 2:3; 2 Corinthians 2:11; 1 Thessalonians 2:18; 1 Timothy 6:12; Ephesians 6:12,13; Proverbs 24:10

Everything of value in the christian life is usually opposed by the world, the flesh and the devil. It takes perseverance to keep on keeping on day by day.

READ YOUR BIBLE PRAY EVERY DAY IF YOU WANT TO GROW

IN YOUR SPIRITUAL LIFE


 If you have been blessed by this study, we welcome your comments. Please email your comments to pastor@deeperlife-liverpool.org.uk