First Part of the SLL Study

Psalm 119: 1-40
“STOP” Study
Bible Study is hard work, it is not casual, recreational reading. We do not have to be Biblical scholars to find out the meaning of what God has to say to us. With help of the Holy Spirit, some time, a few study techniques, and diligence, even a layperson can understand Scripture.

One simple method of personal Bible Study is the “Stop – Look – Listen” technique. Many of us grew up with our parents teaching us to “Stop-Look- Listen” as we cross a busy street. This little childhood phrase can guide our steps not only across the street, but in our personal Bible Study. It is easy to remember, and we can “take it” with us anywhere!

The STOP! phase is first. Here you get an over view of your verses and begin to note what is important, and perhaps what you do not really understand.

STOP! Pray before you begin.

1. Who wrote what you are reading? Why was it written? What is the ‘background’ of what you are reading?

2. Read Ps 119: 1-40. Read it slowly and purposefully. Read every word (now that sounds silly, but most of us rush through our reading and miss out on some important words.)

Ask why I am studying this topic/section of Scripture? What do I already know about this topic/Section of Scripture?

General reading and overview. Write! Write! Write! Take notes. The more your write and interact with your study, the more you will remember.

Stop when God explains something with the words- “because” “for, “ so that,” “but”, etc… and look closely at the verse.

Pick out key words and concepts that you do not understand. Just make a list. For instance, may Bibles will note these words in Ps119 vs 1 “Aleph”, vs 9 “Beth” vs 17 “Gimel, vs25 “Daleth”, vs 33 “He”….do you know what these mean?

7. Look for repeated words or phrases – these are keys to understanding.

8. Scan the horizon – where does this take place? Is geography important?(There is no mention of geography in Ps 119)

Remember….this is just the first step in ‘digging deeper’
In the next step we will do the research needed, we will ask/answer questions, etc….. Also, I am going to teach you how to ‘have fun’ studying Scripture!!