Going through seminary, students are taught to study the Bible and uphold its doctrines about God while also being encouraged not to neglect their devotional times with God. Yet during my own devotional time I, and probably many others, often ask, “Is this approach the best way to grow spiritually, or is there a better way? What could I do differently? Should I incorporate my studies with my devotions?”
Each week, I ask a different scholar two questions about how he or she spends time with the Lord and continues to love him with all their mind, strength, and heart. While no one method or style is “the only way,” we can draw on one another’s experiences.
This week, I have asked Dr. Benjamin Gladd if he would share his thoughts with us.
1. How do you spend your devotional time with the Lord?
I read an OT or NT reading. I like to read whole books at a time. I then read a devotional guide of some sort (e.g., Valley of Vision). Finally, I work through my prayer list.
2. How do you practically seek to deepen your love for Christ?
By spending time in God’s Word and applying it to my life! No secret sauce!
Ben Gladd is Associate Professor of New Testament at Reformed Theological Seminary. He has written Making All Things New, Hidden But Now Revealed, and his upcoming From Adam and Israel to the Church and The Story Retold (with G. K. Beale).
Twitter: @DrGladd
Other Scholars’ Devotions
- Andrew Abernethy
- Michael Bird
- Craig Blomberg
- Darrell Bock
- Denny Burk
- Andrew Das
- Stephen Dempster
- Jason DeRouchie
- Kyle Dunham
- James Edwards
- David Firth
- Stephen Fowl
- Norman Geisler
- Joel Green
- Sigurd Grindheim
- Jim Hamilton
- Matthew Harmon
- Charles Lee Irons
- Dru Johnson (a fan favorite)
- Dru Johnson Redux (extended edition)
- Craig Keener
- Edward (Mickey) Klink
- Tremper Longman
- Ernest Lucas
- David Moffitt
- Jonathan Moo
- Amy Peeler
- Nicholas Perrin
- Tom Schreiner
- Brandon Smith
- Douglas Stuart
- Frank Thielman
- Bruce Ware
- Rikk Watts
- Trevin Wax
- Cynthia Long Westfall
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