Before we approach the Word of God, we must prepare our heart and approach with the right posture.
Before you read, do not underestimate the importance of prayer
- Prayer puts our heart in the proper posture
- Prayer stills our minds and puts our focus on God
- In prayer, we ask the Holy Spirit to help us understand and apply the Word
Find the right time
- Evening is good, but morning is better – you start your day off right and can remember better
- The best time is the time you will be at your best and most consistent
Find the right place
- Find a place that you can be consistent in
- Find a place with minimal distractions
Find a reading plan
- Having a reading plan will help you know where to start
- Having a plan helps you to stay on course and be consistent
- Having a plan helps you to keep track of the days you read and the books you read
- There are many free plans available, click here to see some examples
As you read, learn to slow down. Imagine you are enjoying a fine steak. Chew on the words and savor the meaning. Meditate as you read, as well as throughout the day.
Use a study method such as HEAR
- Highlight: Meditate on the passage and then write down one or two verses that stood out to you
- Explain: What does the text mean? Ask questions like, “Why was this written? To whom was it written? What does this teach me about who God is? What does this teach about who man is?
- Apply: What does this truth mean today? How does it apply to me?
- Respond: What should I do in response to this truth? Write a measurable response to the truth God revealed. Ask God to help you live out this truth