Get Addicted to the Word by Chrissie WillkerGet Addicted to the Word by Chrissie Willker is a primer on how to develop a daily habit to study the Bible. Written for Christians, this book explains the various ways one can read the Bible and learn from it. The subtitle explains the purpose of the book: a step-by-step blueprint for Christians who want to study the Bible but can’t get started and stick with it.
Willker takes time first to explain the hindrances to Bible study. She identifies the myths as well as the limitations of time and priorities. Then she shows how to lay a foundation for Bible study. This includes: inviting God, having the right motivation, dealing with our thoughts that can get distracted and looking to apply to the Bible to life.
Next, Willker shares how to get started in Bible study. She presents eight tools or methods to study the Bible. These methods include: (1) surveying, (2) color coding, (3) paragraph titles, (4) making horizontal charts, (5) character studies, (6) word studies, (7) considering the genre of the literature, and (8) background studies. Each of these methods are ways in which to enhance the study of the Bible. One can perform a type of study and then go to another. Variety can help a person stay fresh in their approach to studying the Bible.
Willker concludes the book by encouraging the reader to “stick with it.” This includes having a vision, a plan, and actually getting out there and get into the Word. Willker stresses the need for accountability when a person has difficulty – in her words, you need a “kick in the butt” person, and a “study partner” person, both who can help keep you accountable. This is basically the good cop, bad cop approach to accountability
Willker does a great job of presenting the need for reading the Bible. She lays out detailed ways to study the Bible. She shows how it can be done using SMART goals and specific time limits. She encourages readers to internalize what they have learned. The book provides helpful links to online resources to help the new reader get accustomed to this important habit.
As her former pastor when I was at the International Baptist Church in Bremen, Germany, I have watched Chrissie Willker grow into a wonderful young Christian leader. Her missionary experience gives her the authority to speak on this important part of the Christian life. I would encourage everyone to buy this book, check out her website, and support her ministry.
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