1. Always begin your bible reading with prayer.
2. Keep a small notebook for your bible study and use it to take brief notes on what you read.
3. Read slowly through one chapter, or even just one paragraph at a time. After reading, ask yourself what the passage
means. (this is why we start off with prayer, the Holy Spirit helps you understand what God is saying.) Then re-read it again.
4. It is often very helpful in finding the meaning of a chapter or passage to ask yourself the following questions, then
write the answers in your notebook:
a. What is the main subject of this passage?
b. Who are the persons revealed in this passage; who is speaking? About whom is he speaking? Who is
acting?
c. What is the key verse of this passage?
d. What does this passage teach me about the Lord Jesus Christ?
e. Does this passage portray any sin for me to confess and forsake?
f. Does this passage contain any command for me to obey?
g. Is there any promise for me to claim?
h. Is there any instruction for me to follow? (not all of these questions may be answered in every
passage.)
5. Keep a spiritual diary. Write down daily what God says to you through the bible. Also, write down the sins that you
confess or command you should obey.
6. Memorize passages of the bible or write verses on index cards with the reference on one side and verse on the other
side. Carry these cards with you and review them while waiting in a doctor's office, for a train, etc.
One of the best ways to help you memorize them is to spend a few minuets before going to sleep so that your subconscious
mind may help you fix the passages in your mind while you're asleep. Through memorizing and meditation of the Word of God,
the Holy Spirit will use this time to apply the Word to your own life and it's problems.
7. Obey the Word of God. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, for reproof, correction and instruction in righteous.
The bible was given to us that we may lead a holy life, well-pleasing to God. God says, "But be doers of the Word, not hearers
only." (James 1:22 )
Myself, I find that using a good commentary book, (Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary On The Bible is an excellent
one, I really like it.) helps me to understand the passages better. It's not necessary to use one, it's just what I do.
