Tuning Up Part 1

In this sermon, Pastor Matt Sturdevant discusses the importance of reading the Bible for spiritual growth and "tuning up" your relationship with God, just like regular car maintenance keeps your vehicle running smoothly.

Three key reasons to read the Bible are:

1. It's a primary tool God uses to transform us

2. The goal is to understand it to apply it to our lives

3. It's how God makes Himself known to us

The Bible was written over centuries by many authors in multiple languages but carries the authority of God's inspired word. We can trust it as infallible, sufficient, necessary, and eternal.

Some best practices for Bible reading include:

1. Choosing a translation, you can understand

2. Picking a consistent time and place

3. Starting small and building up slowly

4. Focusing on quality over quantity

5. Asking questions about the meaning

A helpful method is the HEAR journal approach:

- Highlight a verse or passage

- Explain the meaning in context

- Apply it to your life

- Respond in your relationships and actions

No matter where you are starting from, commit to reading God's word regularly, allowing the Holy Spirit to teach and transform you. Start reading for 5 minutes daily, 1-3 times this week. Bible engagement is critical to spiritual growth!