Living On Purpose In Christ | Boundaries, Devotions, Positive Affirmations, Bible Study, Christian, Faith, Scripture

74 | How to Read the Bible: Essential Tools for Scripture Study

• Paula Behrens | Christian Coach, Pastor, Certified Aroma Freedom Practitioner • Season 2

Share episode

Ever stared at your Bible wondering where to even begin? Or maybe you've tried reading it but found yourself more confused than inspired? You're not alone. Many believers struggle to develop a meaningful Bible reading habit that actually transforms their lives.

The truth is, Scripture isn't meant to be a complicated maze—it's a living, breathing invitation to know God more deeply. As 2 Timothy tells us, "All scripture is God-breathed," equipping us not just for some aspects of life, but for everything we face. When properly understood, the Bible becomes that "lamp for your feet" mentioned in Psalm 119, illuminating your path when decisions loom large and clarity seems far away.

Understanding the Bible's unique structure makes all the difference. With 66 different books spanning various genres—from the raw emotional poetry of Psalms to the practical guidance in Paul's letters—each section serves a distinct purpose. Rather than getting overwhelmed, start with the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) to ground yourself in Jesus' life and teachings before exploring the Old Testament. Choose a translation that resonates with you, whether it's the accessible NIV, the scholarly NRSV, or the highly readable NLT. Remember, the best translation is simply the one you'll actually read consistently!

Create a study environment that engages all your senses—perhaps diffusing lavender for calm focus or frankincense for deeper reflection. Approach Scripture with both structure (using methods like inductive or topical study) and openness to the Holy Spirit's guidance. Most importantly, move beyond mere reading to application, allowing God's Word to shape your thoughts, decisions, and relationships.

Ready to transform your Bible reading from obligation to life-giving practice? Join me for an Aroma of Christ Coaching Hour at paulabehrens.com/coaching, where we'll craft a personalized devotional routine that fits your life and reignites your love for time with God. Stop struggling alone and start experiencing Scripture as the treasure it truly is!

><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><> ><>

Christian Coaching > PaulaBehrens.com/coaching

🌹Become an Insider > bit.ly/insiderfamily

👉👉👉 Grab your Freebies here > bit.ly/faithfulfamily

Join the Community >>> BiblicalBoundariesForWomen.com

Essential Oil Favorites > WhyEssentialOils.com

Get a copy > A New Heaven and New Earth: The Book of Revelation Revisited >>> https://amzn.to/3xRp0DI

Paula Behrens:

Hey friend, have you ever opened your Bible and felt like you were trying to find your way through a maze, unsure if you should start with the Old or New Testament? Or maybe you feel like you have more questions than answers? Well, if any of the above resonates, this episode is designed especially for you. Today, we're cutting through the overwhelm and building a solid framework for reading the Bible, one that will not only bring new life to your quiet moments with God, but also transform the way you go about reading and studying His Word. When I first began my seminary work while serving two church congregations full-time, everyone assumed I had my daily devotional time perfectly organized. But, truth be told, there were mornings I could barely find five minutes to catch my breath, let alone dive into deep reflection. One day, as I rushed out the door with mismatched shoes, I realized that even in my chaos there was a lesson Embracing God's grace and self-forgiveness, I realized that true success in my devotional life requires prioritizing my spiritual practices.

Paula Behrens:

Are you finding it challenging to maintain your spiritual practices or yearning for a more peaceful, God-aligned day? I'm Paula, and I've been there too. Balancing spiritual habits with a busy life can be difficult. I longed for a deeper connection with God but struggled with consistency. Then I found the perfect approach. If you seek simple ways to deepen your connection with God, this podcast is for you.

Paula Behrens:

Hey friend, I want to personally invite you to the Aroma of Christ Coaching Hour. This isn't just another Bible study or spiritual to-do list. It's a deeply intentional one-on-one session where you'll create a devotional routine that fits your life and reignites your love for time with God, all while using your senses. We'll partner together to design a peaceful, Christ-centered routine that helps you breathe again spiritually and emotionally. You'll walk away with clarity, focus and a renewed connection to the Holy Spirit. Go right now to paulabehrens. com/ coaching, that's Paula Behrens B-E-H-R-E-N-S . com/ coaching (no spaces) and book your session. It's time to stop trying to figure it all out on your own and start connecting with God in a way that finally feels like rest.

Paula Behrens:

Before we get started, I'd like to give a shout out to DM Reinhart who writes, Just love all the strategies and tips. You give a really great show. I am so thankful for how you break everything down and give examples, then connect your advice to the Bible. This is so needed. Thank you so DMReinhart, love that review. If you'd like to leave a review, we'd truly appreciate it. On Apple Podcasts, simply scroll down to the five-star rating section and click on leave a review. If you're using a PC, open the iTunes app and you'll find the link near the top. Share your thoughts with us today and your review could be showcased on one of our upcoming episodes.

Paula Behrens:

All right, it's time to get started. Grab your Bible, dust off your journal and cozy up to your favorite beverage and let's dive in. Have you ever felt overwhelmed trying to read the Bible, or maybe wondering if it's really important for your life? If that sounds familiar, you're not alone. Today's topic is all about building faithful foundations, learning not only why reading the Bible matters, but also how to study it in a way that will be meaningful, transformative and deeply rooted in truth. So, whether you're a brand new believer, returning to your faith after a while away, or someone who just wants to go deeper with God, you are in the right place.

Paula Behrens:

Let's begin with the most important question, why should we read the Bible? The Bible is not just a book. It's the living, breathing Word of God, a divine gift that reveals who he is, what he has done and how we're called to live in response. Second Timothy 3, verses 16 through 17, tells us this, all scripture is God breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. In other words, scripture equips us not just for some of life, but for all of life. When we open our Bibles, we're not just gaining knowledge, we are being transformed. Psalm 119, verse 105 says, your word is a lamp for my feet and a light on my path. If your path feels dim right now, if you're looking for guidance, peace or answers, God's word has what you need.

Paula Behrens:

One thing that can trip some people up is the Bibles' structure. It's not anything like a novel where one chapter builds on the next. No, the Bible is made up of 66 different books written by different authors, and it has two main parts, the Old Testament, which consists of 39 books, and the New Testament, that has 27 books. Each book also falls into a different genre. For example, the Psalms express raw emotion and worship. The Gospels tell the story of Jesus' life. The Epistles offer practical guidance for daily living. Understanding the Bibles' structure helps us read it more accurately and apply it more deeply. So next time you open your Bible, take a moment to ask, what kind of book am I reading today, what is its purpose and who was the author writing to?

Paula Behrens:

Okay, so let's talk translations. There are so many different versions of the Bible and choosing one can feel overwhelming, but the good news is this, they are all based on the original text. Just find one that's easy for you to read and makes sense to you. Here are a few examples the NIV, the New International Version, is easy to read and good for general study. The ESV English Standard Version is more literal than some, but great for digging deep. The NLT New Living Translation is a paraphrase in contemporary English, more of a thought-for-thought commentary, and some find this one very readable. I personally lean towards the NRSV New Revised Standard Version for its scholarly approach, which makes it excellent for teaching. It stays true to the original text, especially in terms of inclusivity. For example, when talking to a mixed gender audience, it uses brothers and sisters instead of just brothers, reflecting both the Greek and the Hebrew accurately while at the same time maintaining traditional language when referring to God as He or Father. Each version conveys the same truths with slightly different wording, so choose a translation that you will consistently read.

Paula Behrens:

That's the important thing is that you will actually sit down on a regular basis and read. You know, Bible study is so much richer when we use the right tools. Here are a few. There are study Bibles with notes, maps and commentary. Some people really enjoy those. There are also concordances, which are helpful when you want to find verses on specific topics. There are Bible dictionaries when you're looking to define certain terms or need a little more context. And finally, there are Commentaries for deeper insight and understanding. And don't forget the digital tools too, like the YouVersion Bible app, biblegateway. com, blueletterbible. org and a newer app called Bible. is. These tools won't replace the Holy Spirit's guidance, but they will enhance it and help you with your daily readings.

Paula Behrens:

Okay, so let's get practical. How can you actually begin a Bible study or a Bible reading habit that will stick? Well, here are three simple steps you might want to consider. One, set a goal. Pick a book or a theme to explore. Two, choose a plan. Use a monthly or topical plan. Three, create a routine, same time, same place. Consistency matters.

Paula Behrens:

Or, I would personally advise that you simply start with the New Testament Gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Commit to reading a few chapters each day and read through the New Testament and then the Old Testament. You will be surprised at how much light the New Testament will shed on the Old, which begins with Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus and Numbers. Also, make your study space inviting. Grab your journal and begin with prayer, a prayer like, God open my eyes to what you want me to see today. And here's something that might surprise you. Incorporating aromas like essential oils can actually enhance your focus and sense of peace. Try diffusing lavender to help you calm your mind, or frankincense to create a deeper sense of reverence and reflection. Citrus oils like orange or lemon can energize and uplift your spirit when you're feeling weary. The goal isn't to distract, but to set a tone of intentional worship, engaging both heart and senses as you spend time with God.

Paula Behrens:

Bible study is all about showing up consistently to meet with God. So I mean, how should you study the Bible? Well, here are three powerful methods. The first one is called inductive study. That's where you observe, interpret and apply what you're reading. The second is called topical study. You would actually pick out a theme across the scriptures and then read and compare what you've learned. The third is a character study, where you can learn from various different people in the Bible. Or you can just do as I've done, commit to reading through the Bible cover to cover every year.

Paula Behrens:

I love to start, as I said earlier, with the New Testament, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, read through the whole New Testament, which actually is a whole lot shorter than the Old, and then go back and read the Old Testament. Interpreting scripture well is essential too. Always consider context. Don't just pull a verse out and run with it. Look at the full picture. Read the verses before and after. Take Philippians 4.13, for example, which says I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. Paul wrote this verse from prison, so more than likely he was talking about contentment, not superpowers. Context will always bring more clarity into your reading.

Paula Behrens:

Next, recognize figurative language, like when Jesus said, I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me will bear much fruit. That's a metaphor for spiritual connection. We are not actually branches and he is not actually a vine, but he's using that as a metaphor. Finally, always invite the Holy Spirit to guide you. Ask God to give you wisdom as you read. I personally love to spend five minutes each morning just listening for the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Some days I hear so much, other days I just soak in the peace as I rest in God's presence.

Paula Behrens:

We are also to be doers of God's word not just hearers, but doers, as James points out. So as you read, ask yourself, what truth do I need to apply today? How does what I'm reading shape my relationships or my attitude? And write it down. Journaling will also help you track your growth and see how God is working in your life over time. Application is where transformation will happen. As you grow more confident, dig deeper. Try word studies and cross-referencing. Join a Bible study group. Read the Bible chronologically. That's interesting. Just keep learning, keep showing up.

Paula Behrens:

Bible study is a lifelong journey. Look at it that way. Building faithful foundations doesn't happen overnight either, but it does happen, one intentional moment at a time. God's word is a treasure full of wisdom, love, guidance and truth. It's not just a discipline, it's a relationship with the living God.

Paula Behrens:

Okay, let's close with a prayer. Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for the gift of your word and for the desire you've placed in our hearts to know you more. As we embark on this journey of studying your Word, we pray for your guidance, wisdom and understanding. Help us to approach scripture with humility, openness and a hunger for your truth. May your Word take root in our hearts and bear fruit in our lives, drawing us closer to you and transforming us into the image of Christ. It is in his precious and holy name that we ask these things Amen.

Paula Behrens:

Thank you for tuning in today and remember, just like setting biblical boundaries, it's okay to say no to things that don't serve you well, like that third piece of cake at the church potluck. If you've enjoyed this episode, we would truly appreciate it if you would take just a few moments to follow the show and leave a review. Also, prayerfully consider investing just one hour to deepen your faith and nurture your spiritual growth. In your Aroma of Christ c oaching hour, you will discover how to craft a personalized devotional routine that will fit perfectly into your busy schedule, incorporate essential oils into your spiritual practices, create an easy-to-follow tracking plan for consistency and learn tried and true strategies to experience your quiet time with God not just as a routine, but as a joyful journey. Schedule your call now at paulabehrens. com/ coaching. That's Paula Behrens B-E-H-R-E-N-S . com/coaching (no spaces). Be sure to check the show notes for all the links. Join us next week as we continue to discover how to live on purpose in Christ. Until then, keep leaning into Him and walking in His wisdom. See you next time.