Get More Out of Your Bible Reading - READ TO UNDERSTAND

 We want to understand the meaning of what we read in God's Word.  Otherwise, our reading  may not fully benefit us.  For example, consider Jesus' conversation wit "a man versed in the Law." (Read Luke 10:25-29.) When the man asked what he needed to do to gain everlasting life, Jesus directed him to God's Word by asking: "What is written in the Law?  How do you read?" The man was never able to give the right answer by quoting the scriptures about loving God and loving neighbor. (Leviticus 19:18; Deuteronomy 6:5) But  note what he said next: "Who really is my neighbor?"  The man revealed that he did not understand the real meaning of what he had read. As a result, he did no know how to apply those scriptures correctly in his life. 

We can increase our understanding of God's Word by developing good reading habits.  Here are some suggestions that can assist you.  Pray before you begin reading.  We need Jehovah's help; to understand the Scriptures, so that we can ask him for his holy spirit in order to concentrate.  Then read at a slow pace. That will help you to comprehend the material.  You might find it beneficial  to read  aloud or to follow along with an audio recording of the Bible.  You might thereby engage more of your senses, which can deepen the impression that God's Word makes on your mind and heart.  (Joshua 1:8)   When you are finished reading, pray again to thank Jehovah for the gift of his world and to ask  for his help to apply what you have read. 

Here are two more suggestions to enhance  your understanding of the Bible. Ask yourself questions about what you read.  As you consider a particular account, ask: "Who are the  main characters?  Who is speaking. To whom  is he speaking, and why? Where and when is the action taking place? Such questions will help you to think about and follow the main ideas of the passage. Also, take brief notes as you read.  When you write, you force yourself to put thoughts into words, which help to clarify your thinking.  Writing also helps you remember  what you read.  You might jot down questions, record the results of your research, summarize main points, note how you can  use what you have read, or simply record your feelings.  You may find that writing down such  notes can help you view God's Word as his personal message to you. 

Next time: Get More Out of Your Bible Reading - READ TO UNDERSTAND

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