How to get the most out of your Bible reading?

Barry Lawrence

We all know how important it is to read the Word and hear from God. Many of us are using a Bible reading program that guides us through the Bible for a year.  But how many of us can remember during the day what we have read that morning? And how many of us feel that we are really growing through the regular input of the Word through our Bible reading? 


And how many of us read the assigned passage for the day and check it off with little reflection and impact?

I came across a useful tool to help us go deeper in reflection and application in our Bible reading. I am not sure who developed it but I like it because it is simple yet can help us respond to the truth we are reading. This tool is easy to remember because each step begins with an "R".

REJOICE: Is there anything in this passage that I can praise God or give thanks to him?

REPENT: Is there any sin I need to confess? Is there any command I failed to obey?

REQUEST: Is there anything I need to ask of the Father that arises from this passage?

Let's apply this tool to a familiar passage. You have just completed reading Romans 8:28-30. Based on the above tool,  what might it look like responding to this passage?

REJOICE: "I am thankful that you are at work in my life so that all things will work together for my good. I am grateful that you care deeply about me so that what I experience is beneficial to my life."

REPENT: "Forgive me when I complain and even doubt your commitment to do good to me."

REQUEST: "Help me to see how you are conforming me to the likeness of your Son even in the difficult times. Make me more into the image of your Son through this difficulty with my boss at work."