Increasing your understanding of God’s word
Spiritual understanding does not come by accident; it is cultivated through intentional effort and reliance on God. Many believers struggle with comprehension because they approach the Bible casually. However, Scripture encourages us to seek wisdom and understanding diligently. Here are six key-ways that can assist your spiritual growth in understanding God’s Word:
1. Ask the Holy Spirit for Revelation
John 14:26 (NKJV): “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.”
The Holy Spirit is our divine teacher. Without His guidance, Scripture remains just words on a page. He illuminates the meaning behind the words and reveals how they apply to our lives.
Practical Example:
Imagine reading a passage about forgiveness, but you struggle to let go of past hurts. If you ask the Holy Spirit for understanding, He could remind you of Jesus’ words on the cross for instance (“Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do” – Luke 23:34). By reminding you of God’s word, He softens your heart, making it easier to apply the lesson.
How to Apply this Principle:
- Pray before reading the Bible: “Holy Spirit, open my understanding as I study Your Word today in Jesus Name.”
- Expect insight—God will highlight verses that speak directly to your situation.
2. Meditate on the Word
Joshua 1:8 (NKJV): “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.”
Meditation is not just reading—it is thinking deeply about Scripture, allowing it to shape our thoughts and actions.
Practical Example:
For example, if you read Psalm 23:1 – “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want,” take time to reflect on what it means. Picture a shepherd caring for his sheep, protecting them, and providing for them. As you meditate, the verse will become more than words—it will bring comfort and assurance.
How to Apply this Principle:
- Write down key verses and reflect on them throughout the day.
- Repeat a Scripture in prayer, asking God to help you understand its full meaning.
- Apply what you learn—if a verse speaks about kindness, act on it!
3. Be Teachable and Humble
Proverbs 4:7 (NKJV): “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.”
God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6). A teachable heart is open to correction and willing to learn from God and others.
Practical Example:
A believer who refuses correction or ignores biblical teaching will struggle to grow. However, someone who humbly accepts feedback and seeks wisdom will gain deeper insight and spiritual growth in Christ Jesus.
How to Apply this Principle:
- Be open to learning from pastors, teachers, and mature believers.
- Admit when you don’t understand something and seek clarification.
- Approach Scripture with a heart that says, “Lord, teach me.”
4. Study the Word Diligently
2 Timothy 2:15 (NKJV): “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
Understanding the Bible requires dedication and consistency. It’s not enough to read occasionally—we must study it like students eager to learn. To grow spiritually, you must study God’s word daily.
Practical Example:
A doctor studies medicine for years before practicing. Likewise, we must invest time in Scripture to gain wisdom. Casual reading produces shallow understanding, but deep study brings revelation.
How to Apply this Principle:
- Set aside regular time for Bible study. And be disciplined to keep the allocated personal time for your bible study and meditation.
- Use study tools like concordances, commentaries, and different Bible translations.
- Take notes—writing down insights helps retain information.
5. Fellowship and Learn from Others
Hebrews 10:24-25 (NKJV): “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another…”
Spiritual understanding grows in community. When we discuss the Word with other believers, we gain new perspectives and insights.
Practical Example:
A new Christian struggles with understanding a difficult passage about the “end-times” in the book of Revelation. By joining a Church Bible study group for example, they receive explanations that clarify the text, making it easier to grasp.
How to Apply this Principle:
- Attend church and Bible study groups regularly.
- Seek out mentors or discipleship programs.
- Share your understanding with others—it strengthens both you and them.
6. Practice Obedience
John 7:17 (NKJV): “If anyone wills to do His will, he shall know concerning the doctrine, whether it is from God or whether I speak on My own authority.”
When Jesus said, “if anyone wills to do His will,” He was referring to obeying the word of God. Obedience therefore brings spiritual understanding of God’s laws and principles. Many times, we don’t fully grasp a biblical principle until we live it out.
Practical Example:
A believer hears a sermon about tithing but struggles to understand its significance. Instead of waiting for perfect clarity, they obey in faith. Over time, they witness God’s provision firsthand, deepening their understanding.
How to Apply this Principle:
- Apply what you learn immediately.
- Trust that deeper understanding will come through experience.
- Ask God to strengthen your faith as you step out in obedience.
Conclusion
Hearing God’s Word is only the first step—true transformation comes through understanding. The devil fears a believer who understands Scripture because they can apply it effectively.
Key Takeaways:
- The Holy Spirit is our teacher—ask Him for revelation.
- Meditation deepens understanding—reflect on the Word of God daily.
- A teachable heart receives wisdom—humility leads to growth.
- Diligent study strengthens knowledge—invest time in Scripture.
- Fellowship sharpens understanding—learning in community is vital.
- Obedience unlocks revelation—as we apply the Word, we gain insight.
As we commit to these principles, our faith in Christ Jesus will grow, our wisdom will deepen, and we will stand firm in our walk with God.
God bless you
Altar call: For anyone reading this article who is not saved and wants to be part of the family of God or you want to re-dedicate your life back to Jesus, please repeat this out loud. “Lord Jesus, I acknowledge that I have sinned against you. Lord Jesus forgive me of my sins. I repent of my sins. Lord Jesus come into my life and be my Lord now and forever in Jesus Name. Amen
Prayer: Holy Spirit, breathe upon me, and increase my spiritual understanding of God’s word, in Jesus Name
Feast of Light Word Ministry
