Pray. Read. Ask.

In the summer we introduce our staff to a simple method of Bible study: Pray, Read, Ask. It’s not fancy or complicated and can be used as an individual or as a group. Here are the steps and some Bible reading plan options.

Pray

Pray that God will open our eyes to His truth and guide your discussion or your personal time in the Word.

“…no one understands the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God” -1 Corinthians 2:11

“Open my eyes that I may behold wondrous things out of your law.” -Psalm 119:18

This is a big deal. Always make a point of praying before reading God’s word.

Read

Read the chapter or section. In a group, have each person read a smaller part of the whole out loud until you get through the chapter or bigger section.

Ask

• What stood out to you from the chapter?
• What did you learn about yourself or the gospel?
• What is God uniquely impressing upon your heart?
• Is there anything you need to confess?

Plan options

The best way to ensure consistent time in the Word is to have a plan for what you are going to read. Here are some great resources with plan options.

ESV Reading Plans

There are seven different types of reading plans on this ESV website to print. Some are shorter, month-long reading plans, and some are a full year.

The Austin Stone Community Church

Austin Stone’s daily REAP (Read, Examine, Apply, Pray) method is similar to what we talked about above and their reading plan is available online.

The Bible App

The Bible App (also known as YouVersion) is a free app download. There are tons of reading plans inside this app. You can even invite a friend through this app to read the same plan as you and discuss it together.

She Reads Truth/ He Reads Truth

She Reads Truth or He Reads Truth is a Bible study website and app with shorter topical and book studies going throughout the year. You can follow the devotions through the app or on the website, and they also offer well-designed printed study books to order in their shop.