ACCESS: This video is in English with the addition of American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and English captions. You can find the original video HERE.

Why is it so hard to read the Bible sometimes? In this video, Pastor John Piper will go over the common hinderances we face and how to deal with them through prayer.

But why is the Bible so important?

There are five effects to reading God’s Word.
It gives us:

Life (John 6:68), Faith (Romans 10:17), Hope (Romans 15:4), Joy (John 15:11) and Fruitfulness (Psalm
1:2-3).

Even though there are obviously great reasons to read the Bible, we often don’t read it. But why?

There are four reasons or hinderances that frequently get in our way.

1-We simply don’t want to read it. 2-We don’t see anything worthwhile. 3-We are too distracted. 4-We don’t feel anything when we read it.

So how do we pray through these obstacles?

Remember I.O.U.S
I. Incline my heart to your testimonies, and not to selfish gain! (Psalm 119:36)
O. Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law. (Psalm 119:18)
U. Unite my heart to fear your name. (Psalm 86:11)
S. Satisfy us in the mourning with your steadfast love, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.
(Psalm 90:14)

Scripture References
John 6:68, Romans 10:17, Romans 15:4, John 15:11, Psalm 1:2-3, Psalm 119:36, Psalm 119:18, Psalm 86:11, Psalm 90:14, Psalm 119:12, 1 Kings 8:57-58, Psalm 141:4

John Piper is founder and teacher of Desiring God and chancellor of Bethlehem College & Seminary.

For more information on John Piper and Desiring God, check out desiringgod.org

For more information on Bethlehem College & Seminary, check out bcsmn.edu

Special thanks to John Piper and Desiring God for graciously letting us translate their material into sign language for the deaf to enjoy and benefit from.