01/02/2026
I used to struggle with reading and taking notes to understand the Bible. I just couldn’t seem to retain the information and remember certain scriptures.
I started to do some research to help me learn to better understand.
📖Here are a few helpful tips for anyone out there struggling to study.
📍start with prayer and a distraction-free space
📍read consistently (even short amounts)
📍take notes, focus on context, and use tools like commentaries or group discussions for deeper understanding, aiming to understand God's character and apply His truths to your life.
I also compare the different versions like KJV, the NIV, the NLT and the Message. Sometimes I find I understand the NIV version better. I do recommend that one for anyone who isnt too familiar with Old English.
📌Preparation & Mindset
* Pray first: Ask God for guidance and understanding before you begin.
* Find your place & time: Choose a consistent, quiet spot and time, even if it's just 10-15 minutes daily.
* Minimize distractions: Turn off notifications and set boundaries to focus on the text.
* Prepare your heart: Confess sin and seek a peaceful mindset to receive revelation.
📌Reading & Understanding
* Read slowly and repeatedly: Read a passage multiple times, even out loud, to let it sink in.
* Consider the context: Understand who wrote it, to whom, and why, looking at the whole book.
* Ask questions: "What does this say about God?", "What does it say about me?", "What should I do?" (The POIA method: Pray, Observe, Interpret, Apply).
* Take notes & journal: Write down insights, questions, connections, and key verses.
* Paraphrase in your own words: Rewrite difficult verses to grasp their meaning personally.
📌Deepening Your Study
* Use study tools: Utilize Bible dictionaries, concordances, commentaries, or apps to research words and concepts.
* Memorize Scripture: Commit verses to memory to keep God's truth accessible.
* Study with others: Join a small group or discuss with a friend for different perspectives and accountability.
* Let Scripture interpret Scripture: Use the broader Bible to understand specific passages.
📌Application
* Focus on God's character: See His nature first, then how to be more like Him.
* Identify commands & promises: Note what to obey and what promises to claim.
* Act on it: Confess sin, repent, and seek to obey what you've learned.
I hope this will help someone 🙏