How foolish it is to try to assemble or use an appliance or machine without first reading the instructions. You have probably had this experience: you have just finished assembling a - whatever it might be - and find yourself with parts left over. Or perhaps you just can't get a part to fit. After all, it plainly states: "Read all instructions carefully before assembling."
Instructions have come to mean more to me since trying to manipulate the keyboard of this computer. I have learned that I must read the instructions before beginning to create any sort of a program. Then, I found it helps to have the instructions open as I set out to do what I have read. Even then, I have to continue to look back at the instruction books constantly to get the job done.
Paul told Timothy to follow the instructions in II Timothy 2:15. (See text above.) Most of the revised versions translate the first of this verse: "Give diligence to...." What did Paul mean? Read the instructions, and read them carefully; then read them over again, and turn to them whenever you have a problem to solve.
I remember reading somewhere that our study of the Bible should be like picking apples. First, shake the tree and pick up what falls. Then, pick those you can reach. Finally, you will have to get up in the tree and pick those that are more difficult to get to. But they will be worth the effort. The application is: go through the Bible, reading all of it. Then concentrate of portions that you can pretty well understand without much effort; finally dig into the more difficult passages. You may even need some assistance in understanding. "How can I, except some one shall guide me?" (Acts 8:31). While such study will require much more effort, it will surely be worth it. And, do so always praying for understanding.
We have often been urged, "Be a daily Bible reader." Why? It is a proven fact that one will gain much more from one hour's study per day for seven days than he will from seven hour's study in one day, then resting for a whole week. Be noble like the Bereans (Acts 17:11) - search the scriptures daily." You will be glad you did.
If you follow these instructions, you will have no parts left over, and all the parts will fit into the whole. "Read The Instructions Carefully."
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Most recent revision Tuesday, September 23, 1997