Beginning to Understand Scripture - Part 2

 

           Last time, we began to consider the question, “How do I begin to understand Scripture?”  The first step is prayer for wisdom and enlightenment.  Then what?

            Take a few minutes to quiet your mind and remove other thoughts.  I know that’s not an easy task in our “go, go, go” society.  However, we must get rid of the clutter if we are going to learn to hear and welcome God’s voice.  I’m not saying that you will ultimately hear an audible voice, but as you welcome Him into the quiet of the moment, you will begin to feel His presence deep in your soul. 

            Next, read a small passage of Scripture.  You might start with no more than ten verses or at most, an entire chapter.  Read the passage several times—at least once out loud.  Pause between the readings to meditate and reflect on what you read. 

            Then, consider these six questions as you review the passage.

            What do you like best?

            What do you like least?

            What do you not understand?

            What do you learn about God or Jesus?

            What do you need to do about it?

           What verse or phrase do you want to take with you?

Finally, pray.  Just as prayer is crucial to beginning your understanding, it is also crucial to helping you process what you have read.  Don’t be afraid to ask God to help you to understand the passage more clearly.  Ask Him your questions.  Tell Him what you don’t understand.  Then, return to a time of silence before Him.  Put aside all the distractions and allow God to speak to your heart. 

Understanding doesn’t happen overnight.  It’s a journey, not a “one and done”.  Next time, we’ll talk more about that growth process or what the Scripture calls “sanctification.”

Psalm 119: 10 – 18; 30 – 37; 97 - 105

  

 

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