Hearing from God through Reading the Word in Devotions

Some time ago, a pastor friend in the city introduced me to a simple means of devotional bible study. Let me share it with you as I know it help feed your Spirit from the Word of God each day.

Many of us come to the Word of God not knowing what it is we are reading, why we are reading it or what to expect as a result of reading it. The result is words on a page that have very little impact upon our lives as our eyes pass over them. That is not the purpose of daily bible devotions.

My Pastor friend gave me four simple things to look at and consider as we read a passage of Scripture. They make up the acronym L.I.F.E.*

L – LOOK into the Scripture

As you read highlight what the Holy Spirit impresses upon you personally. What strikes you out of the passage you have read? Which verse or verse stand out?

I – INSPIRED by what?

What is that inspires you or speaks to you out of these verses. Take a minute to fashion that understanding into your own words.

F – FORM a life response

If God has spoken to you personally out of a bible text, what is He wanting you to do in response to it? In other words, write down how you will apply this to your life.

E – ENGAGE in Prayer

Out of this word and your response / application, take it to God in prayer. Acknowledge your need for God and for Him to work to accomplish what it is He is speaking to you about.

As you read your daily bible passage, consider these four points and journal your reflections. What you have in your writings is what you are hearing God say to you. It is not all God might be saying to you, but it is a great start!

The next step to take is to decide upon a bible reading plan.

* Courtesy of Ps John Bond, Lifestreams Christian Church. I have also come across a similar acronym SOAP – Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer which is also helpful.

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