Methods for Bible study

I've been looking at ways to make Bible study a bit easier. I often struggle to find the lesson in the reading and a way to explain it so it makes sense, helping me to get a better understanding of what it is I'm reading.

So, one article I read said you could create your own acronym to help you study. I came up with this: READ, as demonstrated in the graphic above. I think it is sort of an adaptation of the SOAP method. 

Read... this part is rather self-explainatory. Do the reading. But don't just read the words. Strive to understand them. Which brings me to the next point.

Examine.... examine the reading, what is going on? What do you think it is trying to convey? What comes before and after those particular verses (this is important because it gives you the context of what is happening).  

Allow... allow yourself time to let the reading sink in. Allow yourself time to really understand it. Allow ideas to form. Maybe do some brainstorming. 

Determine..... find out how the reading can best be applied to your life or situation. How can you use this to help you? How can it help you to better understand Scripture? How can it help you to help others?

I also came across something interesting when going through the reading guide in my Bible for this morning's Scripture from the book of Hosea. It's called Concentric Circle Thinking and Writing. I think this is very helpful when writing. Here is what it says:

Sometimes reading the Bible can be confusing. For example, you might be reading along focusing on one idea and a new image is introduced, and even another. Or, you are reading a text and you think "Haven't I read this before?" What at first seems confusing can really be helpful to understanding the biblical message.

 This could be called concentric circle thinking or writing. It is a way of organizing information that many of the biblical writers felt at home with, though it may seem strange to us. The way we've been taught to think or reason is more linear; you go through certain steps in a particular order and you come to a conclusion, at least most of the time. The people who produced the Bible generally thought in a more circular fashion. It doesn't mean they weren't logical; it's a different kind of logic.

Picture someone throwing a rock into a pond or lake. When the rock hits the water there is a splash--that's the main point of the writer. Then a circle
appears and begins to expand--the development of the main point. Another circle appears and moves out--a related idea is added and developed. Soon there are several concentric circles all visible and moving at the same time. By going around and around you bring in all kinds of familiar words and images.

When you are reading this circular kind of structuing, it is important to remember not to get caught in trying to figure out what is first, second or third. Let the images circle around. Through the use of commentary, try to find out what the person would have heard when these words were spoken or read to them. Let the message just sink in. (The Catholic Bible, Personal Study Edition, NAB)

I'm hoping that all this will make me a better writer and make it easier for me to explain to you, the reader. So stick with me... we'll get this done!!  😊😇