Rubbish at Bible Study 2: Initial reflection questions

Before launching into new effort in Bible Study, it's important to do 2 things:

Firstly, Pray! You obviously don't want this just to be an exercise in learning more information, so ask for the Holy Spirit to make this an experience of deepening friendship with God.

Secondly, reflect honestly on your current experience, and make realistic choices that you can achieve from now on. There's no point aiming to devote hours to Bible Study, only to leave yourself frustrated and demoralised by not achieving your own unrealistic goals.

Here are some questions to consider:


1: Initial questions and reflection:
a) Why Bible Study?
e.g. 2 Timothy 3:16; Romans 12:1-2; Phil 4:8; John 8:32; Mark 12:30; Jer 31:31-34:
• List as many reasons as you can think of.
• Which reasons are the most important?

b) Try to define ‘Bible Study’ in one short sentence

2: ‘Starting where you are’ questions:
a) How things are now, be honest! Pray and thoughtfully answer these questions:
► On a scale of 1 (rubbish) to 5 (brilliant) how highly do you rate your own Bible Study?
► Why?
► How often do you study your Bible?
► How long do you spend each time you study your Bible?
► What time of day do you do it?
► What problems or hindrances do you find?
► What has helped most over the years?
► What helpful resources have you found?
► What would you like from this Bible Study Track?
► Would you describe yourself as spontaneous or disciplined?

b) What will you try for this Track?
As you’re trying out this Track, you must want to try to improve, so …

How long/how often will you aim to spend in Bible Study for this Track?
I suggest not being over ambitious or unrealistic to start with:
• 1 hour per week in two ½ hour sessions?
• 1 hour per week in four ¼ hour sessions?
• 1 hour per week in six 10 minute sessions?

If you already give more time than this, carry on!

As the Track lasts 6 fortnightly sessions, there’s plenty of time to build up as it goes on, but it’s important to be realistic and get started and into good habits at this stage.

When is the best time of day for you, in terms of household routine, distractions, and your own alertness? There’s nothing especially Holy about 5.30AM!

Where is the best place to focus and avoid distractions?

Do you need to communicate clearly with family or anyone else about your routine, so that they can give you space?


My routine will be:
► How long:

► How often:

► Where:

► Any other practical issues to consider:

Feel free to use the comments box for any feedback - questions, comments or suggestions.