Resources
"Make every effort to present yourself approved to God, an unashamed workman who accurately handles the word of truth." - 2 Timothy 2:15 (BSB)
Hey Mountain Mover,
Hope your day is going well and that you can see God working in your life. If not, now is a good time to take a pause and ask Him to reveal Himself to you.
Here are some resources that I've used over the years. If you have any recommendations, please let me know.
The Holy Bible
Bible.com
Personally and for Coveted Words I use 3 to 5 Bible translations: Complete Jewish Bible, Berean Standard Bible, King James Version, New King James Version, and the Amplified Bible.
The Bible.com app allows me to access different translations, topical Bible study plans, and a verse of the day walkthrough that takes about 10-12 minutes.
As someone who likes to write on paper, I can't always take my notes with me, so having an app with multiple translations and a note section really helps.
As a resource I would recommend downloading the app and using this as your digital Bible as it works offline. Start a Bible plan (solo, with a friend, or group) as a way to guarantee time in the word. Since spending time in the word is a good way to draw closer to God, having an easily accessible Bible study plan provides a anchor of sorts.
BibleHub.com
Bible Hub is a great resource for more thorough Bible studies. You can search by scripture or topic. Most pages include an audio Bible, commentary, scriptural cross references, and at the very bottom a person and place breakdown.
As a resource I recommend using it as an all-in-one tool for in depth Bible studies. Search for your scripture or topic and then scroll through the whole page. You will find commentary, cross references, and word for word translations. Sometimes you may also find complimentary topics to explore.
You can take notes, print, or save the page as a PDF. Bible Hub has been especially helpful for when I am confused about the meaning of a scripture.
Interlinear Bible Study Tool
Personally I use the Blue Letter Bible app for interlinear scripture comparisons. Sometimes I am so confused that I need to know every way the original word was used across other scriptures.
My recommendation is to download the app. Then go to YouTube and search Blue Letter Bible, as there are many walkthroughs that will help you get the best use of the app.
Bible Walk-through's
The BEMA Podcast
The BEMA Podcast walks through the Bible from a Jewish perspective. The podcast teaches listeners from a non-Hebrew or Israelite perspective to see the Bible through the context and culture of those living during Bible times.
Personally I have always had an interest in the Jewish perspective, then and now. The BEMA Podcast has given me room to sit with parts of the Bible I don't understand and to remain curious about the different layers of wisdom hidden in scripture.
Because of the way the podcast is structured, my recommendation is to start at episode zero. I know they're probably on episode 400 and something by now, but trust me. Start at the beginning and take your time.
Heart Dive with Kanoe Gibson & Holly Rigos
Heartdive.org is a growing ministry that started with a YouTube channel dedicated to walking through the Bible in a year. Since then the ministry has grown to include three Bible in a year plans, notes, and a podcast version.
As a resource I recommend going to the website and hitting the start here button which will walk you through downloading the Bible plan, picking the right walk through for you, as well as getting Kanoe and Holly's Bible study notes.
Since there is a video and podcast version its easy to use the walkthrough as more of a guide. Move at the pace of God and linger when it feels right. There isn't a "finish line" when it comes to understanding the word and delving into the character of God.
Books I'm reading
Judaism Is About Love by Rabbi Shai Held
Judaism Is About Love breaks down love in every possible way from the perspective of the Jewish culture and faith. So far I've enjoyed the room the author leaves for readers to answer certain questions for themselves. I also appreciate the author incorporating seemingly opposing perspectives.
I don't want to give any spoilers but if you are interested in a book that gets into the layers of love (who to love, what is love, what is the love of God, how to demonstrate the love we've been given etc.) from various Jewish perspectives (and some Christian) I would recommend reading this book.
One Thousand Gifts: A dare to live fully by Ann Voskamp
One thousand gifts: A dare to live fully is part journal, part Bible study, and a constant reminder to live out gratitude.
Because of the structure of the book (sometimes a tear jerker) its easy for me to accidentally give away details I would rather you encounter on your own.
So if gratitude, being thankful, and looking at your life through the blessing of God is something that you are interested in, I recommend reading this book.
YouTube
Executive Pastor Stephanie Ike Okafor
Stephanie Ike Okafor is an executive pastor that teaches in her sermons. Topics such as the spiritual realm, the power of words, and obedience come up quite a bit in her teaching. Since much of this is foundational to our walk with God, I believe listening to some of her teachings will serve as a reminder to walk boldly in God.
The Basement with Tim Ross
The Basement with Tim Ross is a conversational video podcast that encourages listeners to walk in their vulnerability. I don't suspect you will agree with everything said, but I do believe you will find yourself making more room for the sticky parts of walking with God.
Question and Answers
Gotquestions.org
Got Questions is website dedicated to answering the most common questions Christian believers may have. If you have ever googled a question about the Bible, it is very likely that Gotquestions.org has shown up in the search results.
I have not always agreed with the commentary on scripture or the general answers to some of the questions. However as I seek the kingdom, the answers provided became a breadcrumb on the trail to the answer God is drawing me to.
Explore the website and plug in any questions you may have. If you don't find your question, there is an "Ask" button on the top of the page, which allows you to submit your question to the staff.
There is also a corresponding YouTube channel, Bible studies, and podcast. Whether you are a long time believer or just starting your walk with God, its good to have a Q&A website that covers a broad range of biblical questions.
BibleProject.com
The structure of the Bible Projects website is not geared solely for question and answer. However a lot of the more complicated questions (Hebrew vocabulary, translation differences) can be found on their website.
The information keeps believers focused on God and teaches how to engage with the Bible.. It was through a Bible Project class that I learned the translation nuisances in Genesis 3:16 (when God curses the woman it turns out He was talking about child rearing as well).
As a resource for learning more about the Bible and God, I recommend finding a topic or an area of interest and walking through all of the information they have. It will most likely answer any questions you have and a lot of questions you've never thought to ask.
There is also a YouTube channel and an app to keep your classes readily available. There study notes and posters are also some of my favorites.
Instrumentals
Yoni Charis
Why I like it: Yoni Charis creates instrumentals that can be played for studying (Bible or otherwise), cleaning, prayer walks etc.
Yoni Charis dedicates his instrumentals to God, so you don't have to worry about contrary spiritual influences in the creation of the music. The instrumentals are upbeat yet calming, especially for those days when overwhelm seems to be knocking at the door.
Best Uses: The Longer video's are great for those of us who struggle with time management. As long as the music is on then work (or whatever your doing) continues. Individual songs can be downloaded on popular streaming apps for listening on the go.
The Lofi Christian
Why I Like it: Lo-fi music gives my mind space to think without being influenced by lyrics.
Similarly to Yoni Charis the Lo-fi Christians provides music dedicated to God and soothing for the spirit. With so many behavior indicators in music its nice to enjoy music that lets my mind wonder freely about God.
Best Uses: Create a playlist so you'll have it ready for whenever overwhelm, negative thoughts, or challenges arise. It's also great for setting an welcoming atmosphere for your dates with God.
Curate Your Walk with God
Your walk with God is unique, holy, and intimate. If none of these resources brings you closer to God, don't worry.
God's spirit is our helper (thank goodness). The Holy Spirit is better than any resource I or anyone else can recommend. Ask Him to reveal to you resources, activities, people etc. that would aid in drawing you closer.
💡 Remember: If all you have is God, you have all you need.
Until Next Time,
Grow in God