Tuesday, September 1, 2026

Christians often rely on individuals such as Preachers, Bible teachers, or TV Evangelists to learn more about God, to get closer to him, or to help them grow spiritually. All these people are helpful. However, the best way to know God better is to personally spend time reading, studying, and meditating on the Scriptures. After all, the words of the Bible are God’s word for us. So, spending time in his Word means spending time with Jesus. Scripture says, Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful”Joshua 1:8. This verse suggests that a “Just-Jesus-and-Me” action should be our focus. Here is a way to get closer to God.

1)    Read.  Bible reading should be a regular part of a person’s life. God’s word becomes ingrained in life when we spend time in it. “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips.”

2)    Meditate.  Reading is good, but thinking about the words and ideas that were read may be more important. “Meditate on it day and night.”

3)    Action.  Think about the words and thoughts, but action reveals the intent of the heart. “Be careful to do everything written in it.”

4)    Results.  In the end, results and accomplishment is essential. “Then you will be prosperous and successful.”

When should someone move closer to God? The present time is always the best time. Try these practical ways to make your involvement a “Just-Jesus-and-Me” experience:

1)    Time and Place.  Set aside a time and place where it is quiet and you will not be interrupted.

2)    Pray.  Ask God to speak to you as you read His word.

3)    Read.  Open the Bible and carefully read a portion of God’s word.

4)    Think.  Think about the words, concepts and implications as you read.

5)    Ask.  Question what you read like: What does it say? What does it mean? How do the words fit together or build on each other? What does it tell me about Jesus?

6)    Listen.  Close your eyes and quietly listen, expecting God to speak to you. What is he trying to teach you?

7)    Plan.  Identify action steps you will take regarding the concepts you learned.

8)    Pray.  Ask God to help you live out those concepts and the words of the scripture that you read.

As you work on your “Just-Jesus-and-Me” time, thank God for the bountiful blessings he has showered upon you.