Study God’s Word Without a Devotion (Week 4)

Lean into Lectio Divina

Lectio Divina (divine reading) is an ancient tradition to help us slow down when reading the Bible and reflect on a passage of Scripture in meaningful ways. This practice tunes our hearts to the presence of the Lord.

I've done this on my own or as a small group. This practice is a sweet way to quiet the busyness and listen to the voice of the Lord.

Here's the process:

Before diving into this reflective time with God, take a moment to close your eyes, take a deep breath and slowly exhale, and ask the Lord to remove any distractions so you can meet with Him. Grab your Bible, a pen, and a journal.

1) Read a passage of Scripture slowly (read aloud if possible). Repeat. Wait quietly for a minute or two. Write down a phrase or word that stands out from your reflection. The focus is on who God is and how He operates. Keep it short and sweet.

2) Read the passage again without rushing (read aloud if possible). Wait in silence for two or three minutes. Invite the Holy Spirit to reveal a key message from this passage to you. The focus is on how God relates to you and the world. Write down what you think you heard during your time of reflection.

3) Read the passage again at an unhurried pace (read aloud if possible). Then ask the Lord what He wants you to see, understand, or do today. The focus is on how God leads you to respond to His Word. Write down what you think you hear.

4) Based on what you heard during your time, spend time in prayer with the Lord. This could be a prayer of praise or asking for help to walk in His ways.

Thank you for joining me as we unpacked four different methods to study Scripture on your own. I hope you gleaned some useful tools to help you dive more deeply into the Bible and cultivate closeness with the Lord.

You can study the Bible without devotions and these different methods are the building blocks for doing so well. Different seasons may call for different tools. At times you may find yourself in a season when a devotion is a good tool. That's great! Just remember the goal is to connect deeply with the Lord and to delight in His Word.

May your love for Jesus and His Word continue to grow.

Study God’s Word Without a Devotion (Week 3)

Jump into Journal Questions

I've used this method overseas with non-Americans, in my own personal studies, and with my kids. Don't underestimate the power of this simple technique. You're engaging with Scripture as you read and reflect. 

Grab a blank notebook, a pen, and Bible. 

Write the following five questions at the front of the notebook:

1) What's going on in the text?

2) What does the text mean?

3) What does this teach me about who God is?

4) How should I respond?

5) How should I pray about/think/remember what I’ve read today?

Now select a passage of Scripture to read (I suggest starting with Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John to get used to this method) and start answering those questions!

This method is also great when you're traveling, find yourself in a busy season, or in between your own Bible studies.