Join me for monthly Bible study

It's so wonderful to connect with you all about diving deeper into God's Word! When I started my journey, I often wondered, "What’s your favorite Bible study method to use?" because honestly, there are so many ways to approach scripture, and finding the right one can make all the difference. For me, January always feels like a fresh start, a perfect time to recommit to spiritual growth. I've found that different methods resonate with different seasons of life or even different passages of the Bible. It's not about finding the only right way, but the best way for you to connect with God's message at a given moment. Let me share a few methods that have truly enriched my own Bible study, inspired by some amazing guides I've come across. One incredibly popular and effective method is S.O.A.P. It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. Here’s how I use it: S - Scripture: I start by writing out the passage I'm studying. This helps me slow down and truly see every word. O - Observation: What do I notice in this passage? Who are the characters? What's the context? Are there any repeated words or phrases? I try to just observe without immediately interpreting. A - Application: This is where it gets personal. How does this scripture apply to my life right now? What changes do I need to make, or what truth do I need to embrace? P - Prayer: I end by praying based on what I've read and observed, asking God for wisdom to apply His Word. Another method I adore, especially for really dissecting God's character and promises, is the A.P.P.L.E. method. This one helps me dig into the richness of who God is: A - Attributes of God: What does this passage reveal about God's character? Is He merciful, just, powerful, loving? P - Promises of God: Are there any promises God is making to His people or to me in this text? P - Principles of God: What universal truths or principles about life, faith, or humanity does this scripture teach? L - Lessons Learned: What specific lessons can I take away from this passage for my daily walk? E - Examples to Follow: Are there any positive or negative examples in the text (people, actions) that I should emulate or avoid? Beyond these, I've also explored methods like GROW, ACTS, and POWER, each offering a unique lens for understanding. Some days, a simple READ, EXAMINE, APPLY, PRAY sequence is exactly what I need for a quick but meaningful connection. For those of us looking for more structure, having a daily Bible verse reading plan, like the "January New Beginnings" plan, can be a fantastic way to ensure consistent engagement throughout the month. It provides a roadmap and keeps us accountable. No matter which method you choose, the goal is always the same: to draw closer to God and allow His Word to transform us. Don't be afraid to experiment! Find what brings you the most revelation and joy. I'm excited to see how we all grow in our spiritual journeys this year. What methods are you planning to try this January?