Pray before you read

I know it seems a little silly to mention it because it seems so simple, but pray before you read your bible. Ask God to give you understanding, and you'll be amazed how much of a difference it can make with your retention.

The bible is a series of 66 books written by 40 different authors, and yet there is a perfect continuity of theme and focus throughout. This happens because it is inspired by God. This means that the words in each verse are the exact words of God. This could only happen supernaturally by God using these 40 authors as a writing tool, in a manner of speaking, to pen His message. I believe that since the book was written supernaturally, that we can only really fully understand it by supernatural means as well. This is where prayer comes in.

Not that I play experiments during my bible study time, but I have really noticed a difference in how much I get out of my time in the Word when I pray in comparison to the times when I don't pray. I think there is something to it.

Pray briefly, and simply. Just ask God to open your eyes and prepare your heart to be changed by His word. Allow Him to do a supernatural work in your lives by inviting Him to join you as you learn.