The Word of God and Spiritual Reading

The Bible does not call itself the word of God but refers to Jesus as the Word, emphasizing that hearing God's voice starts and ends with Jesus. God speaks to us through Scripture, which includes both direct communication and writings by human authors, serving as a means to listen and obey God. Obedience to Scripture equates to obedience to Jesus, with rejection of Scripture seen as rejection of Jesus. Reading Scripture, especially through Lectio Divina, a form of spiritual reading, allows individuals to listen for God's voice personally without distorting the original meaning, unlike Bible study which focuses more on historical context and present application. Many find this spiritual reading method essential in hearing God's voice, experiencing phrases or words lifting off the page as if impressed by the Holy Spirit.