By putting together all that the Bible has to say on a certain subject we gain a balanced perspective; we can more accurately reflect on God’s point of view. For example, how do you find the secrets of successful prayer? Gather together all the statements made by the prophets, Jesus and the apostles, the promises and principles they gave, which relate to prayer and its answers. (That’s essentially what we do in guide 14.) When we prayerfully let the Bible explain itself in this way, we come to understand what God means, and not just what some person thinks, or what some church creed asserts.

6. Study the Bible to receive power to live for Christ. The Word of God is described in Hebrews 4:12 as a sharp, double-edged sword. It’s more than words on a page, it’s a living weapon that God uses to help us fight off the most persistent temptations.

7. Listen as God speaks to you through His Word. If a person is to know the Bible truth about a certain subject or doctrine, he or she must be willing to follow what it teaches.

“IF ANYONE CHOOSES TO DO GOD’S WILL, he will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own.”
—John 7:17.

The psalmist exemplified a healthy attitude:

“How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word.”
—Psalm 119:9.