What is your approach to studying the Scriptures? Some people consider it as a book of history with some interesting stories and helpful principles. Some view the Scriptures as something they should read, but they seem to lack enjoyment in their study. Others may take a cursory glance at a few verses, but rush through their study with their minds preoccupied on the tasks of the day. In the book of Acts, we see a description of the Bereans who viewed the Scriptures as the word of God and therefore gave careful study:

Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily, to see whether these things were so. (Acts 17:11)

They earned the moniker of being noble-minded. This phrase describes those who demonstrate an open heart and a thoughtful mind. This word literally means one of a good birth and by implication a noble character. They were not cynical or disputatious, but they received the teaching with eagerness and the Scriptures were their benchmark for assessing truth. These were not people who were blinded by their prejudices, but were desirous of learning the truth.

The word received was a term that was used of welcoming honored guests and giving special attention to their needs with gracious hospitality. The Bereans were carefully examining the Scriptures – this takes time and concentration. The word examine means to investigate, enquire, and, in a forensic sense, it pictures a judge making a thorough investigation. Would you consider yourself to be a diligent student of the Scriptures? The Apostle Paul gave us this admonition:

Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a worker who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15)

How would you evaluate your engagement with the Scriptures? Is there an eagerness to discover and put into practice God’s truth? We see that this was a daily practice for the Bereans. We must realize that small deposits made consistently over time have a cumulative effect.

The great British preacher, Charles Haddon Spurgeon, encouraged us to meditate and reflect on a few verses rather than a cursory reading of several chapters. He was especially critical of those who did not take time to read the Scriptures, “There is dust enough on some of your Bibles to write damnation with your fingers.”

May we not be content with a superficial reading of God’s word, but follow the example of the Bereans and give careful attention to the Scriptures. There is much wisdom that can be gleaned through careful study. The Scriptures contain milk for those who are young in the faith, but it also meat for mature adults. The Psalmist understood the importance of giving attention to God’s word:

Give me understanding, so that I may comply with Your Law and keep it with all my heart. (Psalm 119:34)