I am afraid many of us come to the Bible with something a little less than full-out enthusiasm.
Whether it’s because we’re just not sure HOW to read it for deep meaning or we’ve been reading it the exact same way for years, we don’t look forward to (and possibly even dread) “Bible” time.
Perhaps it’s time to shake things up a bit by remembering, first, that our God is Creator, and second, that it’s okay to employ some creativity when we come to His Word.
Engaging the Scripture A-Z
Ask questions.
Boil what you read down to one or two sentences.
Create timelines.
Draw a picture.
Engage in biblical meditation.
Find a quiet spot.
Generate lists.
Highlight key words and phrases.
If there is a “therefore,” ask what it’s there for.
Jot down your thoughts and observations.
Know the context.
Look for patterns.
Memorize verses and passages.
Notice pronouns. When you come to one, substitute your name.
Organize what you have learned.
Pray Scripture.
Question the Scripture’s application to your life.
Read and read again.
Share what you have learned.
Talk to God about what you are reading. He is right there with you.
Use tools — dictionaries, cross-references, commentaries, other Bible translations, etc.
Visualize what you are reading.
Write Scripture passages out by hand.
eXtract the Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How.
Yield to the Holy Spirit’s leading.
Zap the distractions before you begin.
Download the PDF of Engaging the Scripture A-Z