read your bible

I love Bible studies. But, there's a problem: Bible studies are people's interpretations of scripture. They aren't actually scripture. While they have their place, and can be such beautiful tools, I realized this week that I have a problem with Bible studies: I found myself spending more time in my study books - answering questions, reading what certain passages might mean, focusing on the commentary, etc., than in the actual passages of scripture. I'd first open my study book, and then open my Bible as the "supplement" or "addition to" the study. While the studies aren't necessarily written that way, it was an encouragement to do a heart check. Am I spending time in God's word or in someone else's word? As Jen Wilkin says (in her introductory video to her Exodus study, "God of Deliverance"), " you won't answer to God for someone else's interpretation of scripture." I am responsible to answer for mine, an...