You have to know God first! (:48)

Reading the Bible is a must! It's how you learn about His love and the promises He made to us.

• •  He placed the integrity of His name behind His Word by putting it in writing.
• •  He magnified His Word above His Name. (Psalms 138:2), 
• •  You cannot believe that which you do not know exists.
• •  Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. (Romans 10:17),
• •  It is essential that you read His Word if you want to get to know God's heart.
• •  Satan knows what's in the Bible that's why he's constantly attacking it.
• •  The Bible is our rule book, our survival guide, and our bag of seeds.
• •  The greatest secret in the world today is that the Bible is the revealed Word and Will of God.
• •  What if we treated the Bible like we treat our cell phones? (2:51)

How do we stand approved before God? By studying His Word! (II Timothy 2:15)

• •  Studying is necessary if you want to be able to distinguish between truth and error.
• •  When you see how the entire Bible fits together like a hand in a glove it is exciting and this will motivate you.
• •  You will learn the keys to living a victorious life.
• •  You learn how to send satan running.
• •  You learn what blessings you have in Christ Jesus.
• •  You learn that you are a conqueror in every situation.
• •  You can't renew your mind to the Word of God if you don't know it.
• •  You get refreshed and enouraged by seeing God's heart for us.
• •  You learn the keys to renewing your mind.
• •  You can have hope in the knowledge that Christ Jesus is coming back to take us home for eternity.
• •  You can have comfort knowing what Jesus Christ saved us from and what He has prepared for our future with Him.

What are you doing to be a blessing to other believers? (1:27)

• •  Are you praying for your pastor?
• •  Are you encouraging your pastor or always complaining about something?
• •  Are you blessed to be a blessing?
• •  Are you strong enough in the Word of God that you are able to help someone who isn't?
• •  Are you a giver or a taker?
• •  Do you know God's plan for your life or that He even has one?
• •  Are you encouraging and helping other believers?
• •  Are you a light to the world or just another dead bulb?
• •  Is your life a good example to unbelievers of what God is all about?
• •  Do you know what your pastor's vision is?
• •  Are you doing everything you can to help your pastor with his goals and vision?
• •  Do you give of your finances, time, and talents, to bless your church and other people?
• •  Do you rip people down or build them up?
• •  Are you striving to walk in love?
• •  Do you make the mistake of judging others because you are gifted in a certain area?