So you’ve decided to start reading the Bible or maybe you are just looking for some new resources to help you get back in the daily habit of reading it again.

We want to help you get started.

Below you will find a tool to help. It is called the REAP method (Read, Examine, Apply, Pray). This acronym can help you work through any passage of Scripture and see what God is saying and what you are supposed to do about it. We recommend starting out by praying and asking God to use the Holy Spirit to make something you read really stick out to you.

Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.” (NLT)

We still believe this to be true and have experienced it our own lives and we want the something for you. You can use this in a personal setting or with a couple of friends and even in small group settings.

READ

Open your Bible and ask the Holy Spirit to teach, correct, and train you (2 Timothy 3:16). As you’re reading, ask these questions:

• What is happening in this passage?
• What things are emphasized, repeated, related?What do you see about God?
• What is God doing in this passage?
• What do you see about man?

EXAMINE

Spend some time reflecting. Ask yourself these questions, and write down your thoughts:

• How do you think the author wants his audience to respond?
• What do you learn about God’s character?
• What wrong beliefs about God and myself did I have?

APPLY

After examining the passage, apply the text to your own life. Ask yourself these questions:

• How do I need to repent? What truths do I need to believe? What false beliefs must I turn from?
• What can I do – empowered by the Holy Spirit – today to apply this passage?

PRAY

Pray through the passage and your application, asking God to change your heart and to change your life, based on the time you’ve spent in God’s Word.