Reading the Bible is different from reading a novel or from reading the newspaper. The Bible demands that we become engaged with it. Therefore, any kind of speed reading is out of the question. We must read Scripture so that it will make a difference in our lives. Therefore, it is important how we read Scripture.
There is an ancient practice that was developed called Lectio Divina, which is a way of reading Scripture that incorporates prayer. Lectio Divina, which means "divine reading," has four components:
1. Reading
2. Meditating
3. Praying
4. Contemplation
After reading a selection of Scripture (the first component), you would then meditate to consider key words, key metaphors, key thoughts, and this would be followed with prayer. You can pray for how the Holy Spirit will continue to enlighten you in regard to the passage. You pray also for obedience in living out this section of Scripture. After all, Scripture is not just to inform us but to transform us. The last component is to contemplate your experience with the passage of Scripture.
You might want to check out this video on Lectio Divina from the St. Procopius Abbey in Lisle, IL. The abbot there explains this process in detail. I came across this video as a result of my retreat recently at the Abbey.
I hope that prayer will become a part of your reading Scripture. Make your reading engaging and let prayer help you to connect better with what God wants to do through you from what you have read.
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