Tools & Pointers

A few things that will be helpful for our new Bible Challenge are:

1.  The Bible

2.  Bible Concordance - A Bible concordance will help you find other Scriptures that are related to the passage or word upon which you are meditating.

3.  Bible Dictionary - A Bible Dictionary is just like the normal dictionary except that it focuses specifically on Bible words, customs and teachings.

4.  3X5 Index Cards - Index cards are an effective tool for memorizing and meditating upon the Word of God.  They are easy to take with you wherever you go.

5.  Notebook -- This could be anything from a spiral notebook to a pretty journal.  It will just be a tool to record thoughts, prayers and revelations.

6.  Pens and Highlighters


Owning your own Bible concordance or dictionary is not absolutely necessary because we can utilize many free online resources.  www.biblestudytools.com was a site I found with a quick search.  If you know of other similar tools, please share in the comment section.  I'm sure we'll find more as we go along.


The following "6 pointers" from the BBC Manual will help you get started with your index cards.

1.  Write out a verse or passage on the card.  Use your own handwriting.  It is more personal than typed words.  Write out key words differently than other words throughout the verse.  For instance, capitalize all the letters in the key words.

2.  Record the date you begin memorizing the verses on the top left hand corner.  This will help you monitor your progress in memorization and meditation from the date you began.

3.  Record the scripture reference in the top right hand corner.  This will allow you to locate your reference at a glance.

4.  Highlight, underline, comment.  Make each card your own personal work of art.  Memorization doesn't have to be boring!

5.  Record the meaning of key words on the back of the card.  Each verse has one or more key words that deserve some study in order to find out their root meanings.  For word research use the internet, a concordance or Bible dictionary.


I'm reminded of something our speaker at church said this Sunday.  He suggested that when studying the Word of God, nothing is better than the Word itself!  We can understand the Bible with the help of the Holy Spirit.  So, although these tools will most likely be useful for us during this challenge, let us not forget to begin each time of study and meditation by asking God to reveal truth to us with the help of the Holy Spirit.


5 more days -- we begin July 1st!