So let’s admit that sometimes we open up scripture and are like, “ummmm what did I just read?” We go away confused or bored.
Been there done that.
I learned something from John Piper that has helped me and I want to share it with you. Every morning he gets out of bed and gets on his knees and prays these three verses. He calls them the I.O.U’s.
Instruct – “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” Psalm 32:8
Open – “Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law.” Psalm 119:18
Understand – “Cause me to understand the way of your precepts, that I may meditate on your wonderful deeds.” Psalm 119:27
Before you read scripture consider praying through the I.O.U’s and ask God for help in understanding his word. And then trust he will give it to you.
Then ask the 2Q’s.
As you read scripture have these two questions rumbling around in the back of your head.
Q1: What does this verse say about God or what does God say in this verse?
All scripture points us back to God so we can come away with a truth about God or about something He is saying.
Q2: How does this truth about God or what he is saying make a difference at the end of my day?
This is the so what. We’ve learned _____________ about God now how does this flesh itself out in my day. In the office. At home. Neighboring. Etc, etc.
Try this out and see what the Holy Spirit reveals to you.
Do you have some thoughts on how to engage in your Bible reading? Let’s help each other out – sometimes a simple new tool in Bible Study and prayer helps us move forward in our walk with Jesus. Share it in the comments.
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