"Volumeguide 2, your ultimate hub for fashion, hobbies and inspiration needed to find freedom to grow, be inspired and get motivated into an overflowing life."

Posts tagged ‘descernment’

5 STEPS TO UNDERSTANDING SCRIPTURE

Not just to read them, but grow from them.

1. Pray Before You Read

Ask God for understanding, wisdom, and discernment before opening Scripture. The Bible is spiritual truth, and prayer helps prepare your heart to receive it.

A simple prayer:

“Lord, open my eyes to understand Your truth and help me apply it to my life.”

Biblical foundation:

“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God…” — James 1:5

2. Understand the Context

Many people misunderstand Scripture because they read one verse without knowing:

  • Who wrote it
  • Who it was written to
  • What was happening historically
  • What comes before and after the passage

For example:
A verse written during war, persecution, exile, or correction may carry a very different meaning than a verse about encouragement or worship.

Good questions to ask:

  • Who is speaking?
  • Who are they speaking to?
  • Why was this written?
  • What is happening in this chapter?

3. Compare Scripture With Scripture

The Bible explains itself. One passage often brings clarity to another.

If a verse seems confusing:

  • Look for similar themes elsewhere
  • Read cross references
  • Study how Jesus and the apostles explained earlier Scriptures

Example:
The Old Testament contains promises, symbols, and prophecies that become clearer in the New Testament.

Biblical foundation:

“Rightly dividing the word of truth.” — 2 Timothy 2:15

4. Focus on the Character of God

The Bible is not only a collection of stories — it reveals God’s nature:

  • His love
  • Justice
  • Mercy
  • Holiness
  • Faithfulness
  • Patience

When studying a passage, ask:

  • What does this teach me about God?
  • What does this teach me about people?
  • What response does God desire?

This changes Bible reading from information into transformation.

5. Apply What You Learn

Understanding grows through obedience. Scripture becomes clearer when it is lived out.

Instead of only asking:

“What does this mean?”

Also ask:

  • How should this change me?
  • What action should I take?
  • What attitude needs correcting?
  • What promise should I trust?

Biblical foundation:

“Be doers of the word, and not hearers only…” — James 1:22

A Simple Bible Study Method

A beginner-friendly approach:

Read

Read the passage slowly.

Observe

Notice repeated words, themes, commands, and emotions.

Interpret

Ask what the author intended to communicate.

Apply

Ask how this truth affects your life today.

Pray

Talk to God about what you learned.

A great place to start for beginners:

  • Gospel of John — to understand Jesus
  • Psalms — for prayer and encouragement
  • Proverbs — for wisdom and daily living
  • James — for practical faith

Consistency matters more than speed. Even one chapter read carefully and prayerfully can change how you think and live.

Category:

Hobbies

Tagged with: