Reflecting on Scripture
Joy in the Word!
I recently came across a survey discussed in a book regarding the progression of individuals in their faith journey. The findings were striking: regardless of the stage of faith development, reflecting on Scripture emerged as foundational for continuous growth. Whether individuals were new to their faith or had navigated its path for years, the significance of scripture reflection remained pivotal for maturity. While acknowledging the importance of other spiritual disciplines in nurturing spiritual growth, the recurrent emphasis on scripture reflection as the foremost discipline underscores its paramount role. Consequently, if scripture reflection holds such profound importance in spiritual growth, one may wonder: how does one engage in it effectively?
Reflecting on Scripture will take work. It is easy to read and close our Bible or close out the Bible app and forget what we read within minutes. But when we reflect on Scripture, God's Word can stay with us throughout the day.
I like how Bruce Ashford put it:
"After we have listened attentively to the Word of the Lord, we should reflect on it. We move from hearing his Word to entering into his Word. In this stage, we emplace ourselves in the context of the whole Bible. Although the Bible is composed of 66 books written in a variety of genres by many authors, its books and genres come together to form one master narrative, the true story of the whole world. For that reason, when we reflect on Scripture, we should allow ourselves to be absorbed into the biblical story. We should soak ourselves in Scripture, letting it feed us like water feeds the roots of a flourishing plant (Ps. 1). To switch the analogy, we should receive God’s Word so deeply in our hearts that it touches the inner strings and sets them vibrating (Ezek. 3:10–11)."
I like how Bruce Ashford put it:
"After we have listened attentively to the Word of the Lord, we should reflect on it. We move from hearing his Word to entering into his Word. In this stage, we emplace ourselves in the context of the whole Bible. Although the Bible is composed of 66 books written in a variety of genres by many authors, its books and genres come together to form one master narrative, the true story of the whole world. For that reason, when we reflect on Scripture, we should allow ourselves to be absorbed into the biblical story. We should soak ourselves in Scripture, letting it feed us like water feeds the roots of a flourishing plant (Ps. 1). To switch the analogy, we should receive God’s Word so deeply in our hearts that it touches the inner strings and sets them vibrating (Ezek. 3:10–11)."
And when we reflect on Scripture, we can ask good questions like:
What does this verse or story tell about God's character?
Does this show me something wrong about myself for which I can repent?
In what ways does this scripture call me to obedience or specific actions?
Is there a warning in these verses for me?
How do these verses point me to Jesus?
As we read God's Word and ask ourselves questions, we can pray for the Holy Spirit to transform our hearts and minds through the Word. Rest in these words of assurance from the Apostle Paul in the book of Romans, "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." (Romans 12:2)
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