NXT GEN Next Steps Book

You lose your grip on something easily if you only hold on with two or three fingers. Think of holding on to the Bible with all five of these fingers: Hear: Make sure you listen to good Bible teaching, both through your church and through other resources you can find. Take notes on what you hear.

Read: You will get to know God better by spending time reading His Word. Set a goal to read the Bible for at least 15 minutes every day.

Study: Make sure you are studying the truths you read.

As you dig into the Bible, always ask yourself: 1. What promise is there to claim?

2. What example is there to follow?

3. What command is there to obey?

4. What sin is there to confess?

One of the best ways to study your Bible effectively is to get involved in a Lifegroup. These are groups we will cover in Next Step #3 that meet to study the Bible, pray for one another and enjoy life together.

Memorize: God wants us to hold scripture close to our heart and to be able to call on it when we need to. This comes as we memorize verses that speak to us. Try to memorize at least one verse a week.

Meditate: This ties in with memorizing. After you memorize a verse, spend some time meditating on it. Analyze and dwell on its truth as you jog, walk, ride the train, cook or play.

The Bible is useful and helpful in all situations. Look at what the author of the book of Hebrews writes: "For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two- edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires."

- Hebrews 4:12