Our primary study and intensive learning of the
Bible should come in the context of the Church’s teaching ministry. After all
Christ gave the apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers to equip
the saints and edify the body (Eph. 4:11-12). But this does not mean you should
never read or study the Bible outside of church gatherings or organized Bible
studies. Every Christian can benefit from regular time set aside to read and
meditate on God’s Word. As you do so, here are some helpful ways for getting
more out of what you read.
1) Keep a Bible Reading Journal
This can be a simple notebook, journal, or even
an app or program on your laptop, tablet, or smartphone. Record the date, the passage(s)
read, and any of the following observations you choose to make. This journal
will help you assess the consistency of your Bible reading and will preserve a
record of what God has been teaching you through it.
2) Look for Three Things Each Time You Read
Whenever you sit down to read, look for three
things to help you pay attention and actively learn as you read. First,
look for something new that you don’t remember seeing before. We should expect
to learn when we read the Bible. Second, identify your favorite part. Bible
reading should be enjoyable; it is a delight, not merely a duty (cf. Psa. 1:2).
Third, note at least one practical application from your reading. We aspire to
be doers of the Word, not merely hearers of it (cf. Jas. 1:22).
3) Take a T.R.I.P. through Your Bible as You
Read
T.R.I.P. is a simple acronym that suggests four
issues to be mindful of as we read. Pay attention to passages that should prompt
thanksgiving, repentance, intercession, and praise. If you keep a detailed
journal, these passages can be noted for later review or added to a weekly
prayer list. These four points can be especially helpful in identifying practical
applications. Giving thanks, repenting, interceding in prayer, and praising God
are all appropriate ways of applying Scripture.
4) Pray About What You Read
Pray for God’s blessing before your read (Psa.
119:18), then take a few minutes to pray about what you have read when you
finish. Give thanks to God for his Word and for what you have learned, pray for
others to enjoy the blessings promised, and seek his grace to be obedient.
5) Choose a Portion To Memorize and Meditate on
Each Week
Some
verses you encounter may stay with you the rest of the day, but consider a
disciplined habit of identifying at least one verse to commit to memory each
week. This will help you meditate on the Word of God, and whether you retain
the verse or not, you will benefit from repeating it often to yourself during
the week. Soli Deo Gloria! –JME
