Abiding in the Word

A Seven Point Inductive Bible Study

Approach the Word:   What does the passage say?  Read the passage thoroughly several times.  Be  factual as you briefly list the facts of the passage  Who is speaking?  What is happening?   Where is it taking place?  What is the subject or thrust? 

  Luke 10:38-42     Fact: 10:39-40  Mary listened to Jesus while Martha was distracted by preparation. 

Absorb the Word:   Choose any word from the passage.  What does it mean?  Expound upon it, define it, and meditate on it.  Possible sources are dictionary.com, Websters dictionary, blueletterbible.org, or any Bible dictionary. 

  Luke 10:40  Definition: “Distracted” - having the attention diverted; rendered incapable of behaving, reacting, etc., in a normal manner, as by worry, remorse, or the like; irrational; disturbed 

Analyze the Word:  What does the passage mean?  Why did God put this in the Bible?  Be spiritual as you find the truths and the lessons to be learned from the facts presented.  Look for sins to confess, promises to claim, actions to avoid, commands to obey, examples to follow. 

   Luke 10:38-42   Lesson:   10:39  We need to sit at Jesus' feet and listen.

                                            10:40  Preparations can distract us from Jesus. 

Apply the Word to Life:  What does the passage mean to me personally?  Be personal as you ask yourself "What does God want me to see about my own life"?  Ask yourself a question with each lesson that begin with "Who, What, When, How, Where" (Try to avoid yes/no questions)  Be sure to answer your questions. 

  Luke 10:38-42  Application: 10:39   When was the last time I sat down to listen to the words of  Jesus?

            10:40   What am I letting distract me from listening to Jesus?

Acknowledge God’s Attributes:   Look for names of God or characteristics of God as you read through the passage. 

  Attributes of God: Teacher, the better choice, He sees our hearts, loves to fellowship, companion

 Align your Will:  Are the answers to your application questions in alignment with God and His Word?  What do you need to adjust? 

  Luke 10:38-42   Align:  10:39   I need to sit daily at His feet

        10:40   I need to get up early before distractions begin.

Act on the Word:  What am I going to do about what I learned?  Be practical and make a commitment to take at least one action from what you have learned while studying scripture. 

  Luke 10:38-42  Action:  Tomorrow I am going to get up 30 minutes earlier so I can listen to Jesus' words as I begin my day, before I start my daily routine, and I am going to establish this as a habit.