Walking With God

Walking With God

Study Guides

Simple, practical help for exploring the Bible, whether you're reading quietly on your own or talking with a few friends.

There is room here for questions, different levels of experience and thoughtful conversation. You do not need to have all the answers before you begin.

A simple way to read a Bible passage

These five steps are not a formula. They are simply a way to slow down, pay attention and allow Scripture to speak for itself.

1

Begin with prayer

Ask God for an open mind and a listening heart. It need not be a long or polished prayer.

2

Read the passage

Read it carefully, perhaps twice. Notice who is speaking, what is happening and what comes before and after.

3

Ask honest questions

What do you understand? What surprises you? What is difficult? It is fine to leave a question open.

4

Consider the context

Look at the surrounding verses. If useful, compare another translation or a related passage before drawing conclusions.

5

Reflect and respond

What might this show you about God, other people or the way you live? Take time to pray and think it through.

Studying together

A good Bible discussion is not a test of who knows the most. It is an opportunity to listen, learn and grow together.

Questions that open up a conversation

  • What stands out to you in this passage?
  • What do we learn about the people involved?
  • What does this passage tell us about God?
  • What questions does it leave us with?
  • Is there something we might take into the coming week?

Making room for everyone

  • Give people time to think before they answer.
  • Listen without rushing to correct or interrupt.
  • Welcome questions, including difficult ones.
  • Return to the Bible when opinions differ.
  • Let quieter people contribute without putting them under pressure.

Try it with a passage

Mark 4:35–41 — Jesus calms the storm

Find the passage in your Bible and read it once or twice. Then consider:

  1. What is happening, and how do the disciples respond?
  2. What do Jesus' words and actions reveal?
  3. Why might the disciples' final question matter?
  4. What does this passage leave you thinking about?

You can use the same approach with a psalm, a parable or a short section of a letter.

Ready to explore further?

Our Bible Studies section contains longer studies with passages to read and questions for personal reflection or group discussion.

Explore Bible Studies →