Notes on Forming a Longing for Gods Word

Forming a longing for God's word

  • The more we delve into Godds word (the Bible), the more we appreciate its value and come to enjoy reading it.
  • Main goal: learn practical steps to form a longing for Scripture.

Steps to form a longing for God's word

  • Begin with prayer to cultivate a receptive heart and dependence on God.
  • Pray for self-discipline and aim to work in harmony with your prayers (prayer + disciplined study).
  • Consider keeping study periods short to maintain focus and avoid burnout.
  • Use the SQRQ study method to structure reading and reflection:
    • SQRQ=Survey,Question,Read,Review,Remember\text{SQRQ} = {\text{Survey}, \text{Question}, \text{Read}, \text{Review}, \text{Remember}}
    • Survey what you plan to read.
    • Question: ask reflective questions such as:
    • What can I learn about Jehovah from this?
    • How can I apply it in my life?
    • How can I use it to help others?
    • Read the material, then Review and Remember.
  • An article mentioned that, over time, study becomes easier and more pleasurable; you will begin to cherish quiet times when absorbed in Jehovahds thoughts.

SQRQ in detail

  • Survey: preview the passage or article to grasp structure and themes.
  • Question: generate specific questions to guide inquiry.
  • Read: study the text to find answers to the questions.
  • Review: go over what was read to reinforce understanding.
  • Remember: internalize key points so they influence daily life.

Electronic tools from the Organization (JW Library)

  • Benefits cited:
    • Helps locate information quickly and more thoroughly.
    • Makes navigation easier as updates roll out; continuous learning is part of using the tool.
  • Personal experiences:
    • One sister was not tech-savvy at first and relied on prayer for help; with support from family, she learned to use the tools effectively.
    • Updates require learning new features, but the ongoing improvement is manageable with prayer and practice.
    • Another speaker contrasted old methods with modern tools: previously, one might have had 24 bound volumes on a desk; now, a tablet makes finding a single piece of information much easier.
    • The Watchtower organization (referred to as "the slave") helps provide the information and navigational guidance; the tool is "at her fingertips."
  • Specific features mentioned:
    • Use of the larger New World Translation for reading; ability to underline and make notes.
    • On a device: click a verse, compare different translations, click on the gem to access additional information.
    • These features collectively make Bible reading more enjoyable.

Practical reflections and examples

  • The group highlighted that the organization has done the heavy lifting in providing structured study tools and resources.
  • Personal testimonies emphasize prayer, gradual skill-building with technology, and improved ease of access to information.
  • The approach fosters a positive association with Bible study, turning quiet times into cherished moments.

Next steps during the session

  • The group planned to watch a video on "organizational accomplishments, tips for using JW Library" to gain further practical tips.
  • After the video, questions were to be discussed to reinforce understanding and application.

Connections to broader principles

  • Integration of spiritual practices (prayer) with practical study strategies (SQRQ) to form a longing for Godds word.
  • Adaptation to new technologies as a means to deepen spiritual study while maintaining discipline.
  • Emphasis on personal relevance: questions focus on learning about Jehovah, applying teachings, and helping others.
  • Emphasis on consistency: short but regular study sessions build lasting, pleasurable habits over time.