Fifty teens swayed shoulder-to-shoulder, singing “This Little Light of Mine” with childish gusto in a dim basement.
It was my first youth conference, a weekend layered with friendship, lessons, outreach, prayer, and service—and those weren’t even the best moments.
The best part was the hour we prayed and studied quietly, eyes trained on the papers in front of us.
I ached to get back into the Word. I wanted to try again, even by myself.
A few days later, I got my chance. And my studying hasn’t stopped since then.
Are you ready to experience that same feeling?
1. First, Pray
Learning about God isn’t very important unless you talk to Him.
It might feel awkward, but don’t skimp on this step. God wants to hear from you, and you need to listen to Him.
2. Keep a Bible Nearby
You never know when half a verse might pop into your head and it’s time to fact-check.
3. Write the Verse
Pick any verse. Try a proverb or a sentence of dialogue from Jesus. Maybe start “in the beginning” with Genesis 1:1. Next, write the verse at the top or middle of the page.
4. Then, Note the Context
Context is critical. Consider reading the entire chapter the verse is from, even though you’re not exploring all of it now.
5. Next, Highlight Words
In John 15:12, I noted the words “commandment,” “you,” “love,” and “I have.” I used the Notes section to expand my thoughts on these words.
In the past, I drew lines or added notes in the margins, but that soon became chaotic. I also tried using icons to specify which words I’m taking notes on, which worked for a while. So do whatever works for you. Will you go simple or add lots of colors?
Maybe it depends on your mood! (That’s how it is for me.)
But remember: this is not about the prettiest handwriting or finding the hidden meaning no one else has seen before so you can brag.
It’s about the truth. So stick with what you see, and carefully tread when looking for anything super deep.
6. After That, Find a Common Theme
Love is the common theme in John 15:12, so I used stars to highlight every time the verse uses versions of it. For example, if I were studying Philippians, I would mark the words “joy,” “rejoice,” “contentment,” or something similar.
7. Ask, “What does this say about who God is?”
Asking what the verse says about God can be tricky, at least for me. What if the passage doesn’t specifically mention God? Sometimes it’s difficult to admit that God is judgmental or as forgiving as He is. But see what you can find!
8. Then Ask About the Application
What do you gain (or lose) with the verse? How can you apply this verse in everyday life?
Be cautious about this. It’s easy to twist words to give them “happier” meanings. Remember to keep the verse in context.
9. Keep in Mind
If it’s there, it means something.
Nothing was put into the Bible by mistake (2 Timothy 3:16–17). Just because you don’t know what to do with it doesn’t mean you won’t figure it out someday.
Don’t twist words.
When you’re having a hard time with a subject, outsource! Pray or ask a mentor, pastor, or Christian friend.
It’s okay if you don’t know.
Humans have flaws. Frankly, you don’t have every answer. It does take a dose of humility to admit that!
I often come up with more questions than answers when I study, and you might too.
In Conclusion
I won’t guarantee that this verse study plan will make your spiritual life do a U-turn, but since starting this method, I can testify to learning a lot.
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