How to Read-Listen-Pray the Scriptures

Many people have a desire to get closer to God but can at times find it tough to get anything out of their Bible readings. One way to get more out of your Bible reading time is to Read-Listen-Pray the Scriptures. It's a simple way to focus your devotion time.

READ:
• Start by reading a chapter or two of scripture
• As you are reading it, write out in your journal any any verses that pop out at you or speak to you in a particular way

LISTEN:
• Ask Jesus to reveal to you in a deeper way the truths from the passages of scripture that you wrote in your journal
• Ask Jesus if there is anything in the passage of scripture that you read today that He wants you to obey
• Ask Jesus if there is anything in the passage of scripture that you read today that He wants you to believe (something that you may know in your head is true but isn’t in your heart)
• Ask Him if there is anything that He wants to reveal to you about His character, through the passage of scripture
• Ask Him if there is anything that He wants to teach you from the passage of scripture, something that you can apply to your life right now
• Ask Him if there are any actions that you need to avoid or actions that you need to start doing from the passage of scripture


PRAY:
• Thank Jesus for what He showed you in the Word today
• Confess any sin that He revealed to you today
• Pray the truths of the scripture
• Pray that you will follow through on what He showed you today
• Pray for your family, friends, the church, ministries, etc.


As you pray and spend time meditating on the truths in His Word, the Holy Spirit will begin to tenderize your heart. Be persistent in asking Him to open the eyes of your heart. The Holy Spirit will gradually cause your insight to increase.

Make sure you record your thoughts in your journal as you read-listen-pray through the Bible. Write down the ideas that come to you, prayers and commitments.