ways to study the bible

From the Navigators: We must pause in our reading to dig into the Bible. Below are 5 different ways to dig deeper. These exercises encourage meditation. 

1. Underline or highlight key words or phrases in the Bible passage. Mark new discoveries from the text. Periodically review your markings to see what God is teaching you.
2. Put it into your own words. Read the passage or verse slowly, then rewrite each phrase or sentence using your own words.
3. Ask and answer some questions. Questions unlock new discoveries and meanings. Ask questions about the passage using these words: who, what, why, when, where, or how. Jot down some thoughts on how you would answer these questions.
4. Capture the big idea. God’s Word communicates big ideas. Periodically ask, What’s the big idea in this sentence, paragraph, or chapter?
5. Personalize the meaning. When God speaks to us through the Scriptures, we must respond. A helpful habit is personalizing the Bible through application. Ask: How could my life be different today as I respond to what I’m reading?