Question 42: How is the Word of God to be read and heard?

Answer: With diligence, preparation, and prayer; so that we may accept it with faith, store it in our hearts, and practice it in our lives.

Kids Answer: With diligence, preparation, and prayer; so that we may accept it with faith and practice it in our lives.

Key Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:16–17

Additional Scripture: Isaiah 55:11; 1 Peter 1:24

Scripture is meant to be treated as a savings account, not a debit account. What this means is that scripture’s life-changing power is realized more often over a long time of reading, rather than in a moment. We may leave our Bible after one morning feeling unchanged, but small deposits over a long period of time will result in a great store of treasure from which we may draw strength.

Questions to ask: (To help process the truth we learned. Ask yourself, a friend, your group, or your family questions to talk through it together)

• What does it mean to treat scripture as a savings account versus a debit account?

• Which way do you approach scripture?

• What is the key to sustained Christian practice?