The Bible is a big book. We get it. It can be intimidating. How do we know where to start? The sheer volume of words is astounding, let alone the mystery and reality of this being the Word of God passed down from generation to generation. Sometimes we need to study deeply, and can’t avoid the fact that it can be hard work. Other times we may be looking for a simpler technique for being in the Word. If that’s what you are looking for, here’s a tool for that! This is great for new disciples of Jesus AND the longtime apprentice!
Spend some time in prayer. Be aware of God’s presence and posture towards you, then start to READ.
R.E.A.D. The Bible
Read
The first things we want to encourage you to do is to Read the text. Spend time with the words of God and let them work their way into your heart. This may be a story, a chapter, or even a verse.
Examine
Spend time with the text and work through it. If it’s a story notice the characters, tension and the plot. If it’s a verse notice the words. If it’s a chapter or passage, notice the themes, follow the logic. If it’s poetry, what are the metaphors, stanzas, and imagery?
Apply
The text was written to people who are very different than us, but it was written for us as well. How does this part of Scripture have implications for your life or context? Is there a behavior you sense Jesus wants you to stop or start? An implication for your business, family, roommates, or private life?
Do
So that thing that you feel called to do- do it. Actually follow through on the invitations or calls to repentance that Jesus is offering you through the kindness of his Spirit. We encourage you to make this a community project and invite others to hold you accountable to what the Spirit is inviting you into!