We have a very simple method of studying God’s Word. To help you remember it, each step begins with the letter “R.” Your assignment before the study starts is to get a journal or notebook you can use, dedicated to this Bible Study. That’s all you will need, besides a pen and a Bible. Here are the 4 R’s:
REQUEST. Always start with prayer. Ask God to help you understand what you are about to read. Ask Him to help you focus and learn. Whisper “Teach me, Lord!” He will.
READ. Next, read the assigned passage twice. The readings are short on purpose so you can slowly read and study them without feeling overwhelmed.
RECORD. Then, choose one verse from the passage you just read and literally write it out, word for word, in your journal. As you write it, you will find that it sinks into your mind even further. Choose whatever verse stands out to you. It might be one that challenges you to grow in some way. It might be a confusing verse that you wish you understood better. Each day will be different, but seek the Lord in choosing a verse and recording it.
RESPOND. Your last step is to write a short prayer to God, talking to Him about the verse. The Bible is His living Word to us. So, He spoke to you as you read. Now, it’s only polite to speak back, either thanking Him for what you learned or writing out a question you hope He will answer in the days ahead.
That’s it, friend. So simple. When you read with intentionality, trusting the Holy Spirit to speak … amazing things happen. After all, God tells us the Bible is “God-breathed” and useful for instruction in so many ways! Let’s pray:
Father God, thank You for the apostle, John, who knew You loved him and proclaimed it in awe! Teach us, Lord, from this man who started out a “son of thunder” and who ended up pleading with us all to love each other. May it be so, Lord Jesus! In Your Name and for Your glory and the furthering of Your kingdom, Amen.
