1.  Select a passage

Some people find it helpful to follow a specific Bible reading plan to guide their reading.

Other people want to read through the Bible on their own.  Still others move from one passage to another based on preference, lectionary readings, or Church School lessons.

2. Read the passage the first time

Read the passage the first time without stopping in order to gain an overall sense of the passage.  Listen to your initial reactions to the text…both positive and negative.

3. Read the passage a second time

Below are some types of questions about the context of a passage that you might find helpful as you read.

In what book of the Bible is this passage found? Is this book a prophetic book?  A historical book? A book of poetry?  A Gospel? A letter? Who are the main characters in this passage? Do they speak or do others speak for them? What are the relationships between these characters? What is the relationship between God and the characters in this biblical text? Where did these things take place?  What are the key places mentioned or assumed in the passage? What has happened before this passage?  What is happening during this passage?  In other words, what is the specific historical context of the passage? What are key words or phrases that are repeated in the passage? What is the significance of these words? Are there are cause and effect relationships established in this passage?  Are any comparisons made or similarities pointed out?  Are there any contrasts made between people, things, or ideas? What is the intent or purpose of the passage?

4.  Read the passage a third time. Then reflect on your answers to these questions.

What did I learn about God from this passage?

What did I learn about my own relationship to God?  In other words, how does this passage apply to me?

Is there anything I need to change in my life based on my reading of this passage?  How can I be stronger in my faith? What can I do to show God's love to people in my life?

5. Finally, thank God for the time you had to read from Scripture.

Ask God to help you make the changes you identified.