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How to Read the Bible
Set aside time each day to read the Bible. Try to make it the same time each day. Be realistic. Commit yourself only to as much time as you honestly feel that you can stick to on an ongoing basis. Before you begin reading ask for God's guidance and blessing. Some people have found that keeping a daily notebook is helpful. Use the following steps to get the most out of your daily Bible reading:
- Select a Passage (perphaps from the Read through the Bible in a Year section).
- Examine its Context:
- What kind of book is it drawn from? [A biographical book such as one of the Gospel accounts of Jesus' life; a long historical book, such as The Second Book of Samuel, which tells of the reign of King David; a brief letter to a person (The Letters of Paul to Timothy) or a specific church (The Letters of Paul to the Corinthians).]
- What is the overall purpose/intent of this book? (Do not do lengthy research, but feel free to read the opening and closing paragraphs as well as section headings and introductions if your Bible has them.)
- What occurs or is discussed in the passages immediately preceding and following the passage you chose?
- Read the passage quickly for sense.
- Identify key words or phrases. Are there words or thoughts that are repeated throughout the passage? Are any cause and effect relationships established? (These are often signaled by words like if and then, therefore, because, since, and so.) Are any comparisons made or similarities pointed out? Are any two people, things or concepts contrasted?
- Read the passage again and ask yourself what is the intent or purpose of the passage. Try to find out what the author is saying. Be honest; don't just look for what you want to hear. The Bible has many strong messages that can change lives!
- What do you learn about God form this passage? What do you learn about human nature? Ask yourself how this message applies to you. Is there anything you need to change in your life in order to be a more faithful child of God or more loving to your neighbor? Ask for God's help in making this change.
- Re-read the passage one more time. Is there one verse you would like to commit to memory? Why not write it on an index card and carry it with you throughout the day as a study aid?
- Thank God for what He has shown you, and ask for his help as you seek to apply this lesson in your life.
- Share what you have learned with someone else.
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