Reading the Word
One of the key ways that a disciple strengthens themselves in the Lord is by reading the Word daily. When we read God's Word, we encounter the Author of creation, and we get to know His heart, mind, and ways.
As you read the Bible, consider the following:
- What does this tell me about the nature of God?
- What does this say about the people involved?
- How can I read this prayerfully, humbly, and accurately?
- Look for words, repetition, patterns, and clarifications.
- What is the author’s intent (both God and the writer)?
- Ask questions of the text, ask the Holy Spirit (1 John 2:27), and use your imagination.
- What is happening in the story?
- What do you imagine the scene to be like? Quiet, noisy, busy, slow, dirty, clear? The weather? What's the temperature?
Note: Using your imagination does not give the text a new meaning, it simply helps you understand and experience the story as reality.
For application, consider these questions:
- How does this correlate to what is unfolding in your life? How does the biblical story and your story align? How are they different
- What does the story tell you about God? Does this correlate to other characteristics about God across Scripture?
- How does God want you to respond to what He's saying?
- What underlying assumptions do you have about God that might be wrong? Why?
- Where do you see God in your story? Is He in the background, forefront, or center? Is He the main voice, director, or author?
Always ask this question:
What is God asking me to be or do?