how to read

(There's actually a book that I recommend to most titled: "How to Read a Book" by Mortimer Adler, but this post isn't about that)

We at UnitedLife launched our new series "Wiretap" this past Sunday. Our ministry will be diving deep into Paul's letter to the Romans for the next few months, something that I'm excited about as a pastor, a student, and as a follower of Jesus Christ.

One of the things that excites me about this is the chance it gives us to spend a lot of quality time with Paul's letter. In particular, I've asked our congregation to reread the Sunday sermon text on their own every day of the following week. I have no idea who's going to take me up on this, but I began doing it yesterday and already am enjoying the chance to really savor God's word. As an epistle, Romans is brimming with stuff, so when you squeeze small, 7 - 10 verse chunks every day for a week you end up with a full cup of juice.

I realize, however, that not everybody knows what to do when they pick up scripture, so this past Sunday I suggested a reading method that I use. Here's how it goes:

1. Pray (especially that God would open your heart to receive His Word).

2. Read through the passage (this week it is Romans 1:1-7) once.

3. Read through it again, slowly.

4. Take note of any word or phrase that sticks out to you.

5. Read through once again, slowly.

6. Consider why God might bring that word or phrase to your attention. Jot down any conclusions.

7. Pray over those thoughts and conclusions. If appropriate, begin thinking about what actions should follow.

Hope this helps you to hear God's voice!