Session 3 is about learning to hear God’s voice through the Bible and building a simple, sustainable habit of reading it.
The Bible is God’s breathed-out Word
Christians do not read the Bible just as an ancient religious book. Scripture describes itself as God’s own Word, given through human authors.
Look up and read this:
- 2 Timothy 3:16–17
“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,
that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
“Inspiration of God” literally means God‑breathed; God is the ultimate source of Scripture. Because of that, it is “profitable” (truly useful) to teach you what is true, to show you where you are off, to correct your course, and to train you in living the way God wants.
The Word of God is living and powerful
The Bible is not only true; it is active. As you read it with an open heart, God uses it to work in you.
Look up these verses:
- Hebrews 4:12
This verse says that the word of God is living and powerful, sharper than any two‑edged sword, and able to discern the thoughts and intents of the heart. - Psalm 119:105
Here the psalmist says that God’s word is a lamp to his feet and a light to his path.
God’s word does more than inform your mind; it exposes your heart and guides your steps. Over time, repeated, honest exposure to Scripture is one of the main ways God reshapes how you think, what you love, and how you live.
A simple way to read: “Read – Reflect – Respond”
Especially as a new believer, the goal is not to read a huge amount at once, but to read regularly and interactively. Here is a straightforward pattern you can start using today with any passage:
- Read.
Choose a short section (for example, 10–15 verses in the Gospel of John or Mark) and read it slowly, maybe twice. - Reflect.
Ask a few basic questions: “What does this say about God or Jesus?” “What does it say about people?” “Is there a promise to believe, a command to obey, an example to follow, or a warning to heed?” - Respond.
Turn what you saw into a brief prayer: thank God for what you learned, ask for help to obey, or bring Him any questions or struggles that surfaced.
Some people like using a simple “S.O.A.P.” approach—Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer—as a way of writing down their reflections. The format is less important than coming to the Bible consistently, expecting God to speak through it.
Where should a new believer start?
The Bible is a big book, and starting in a confusing place can be discouraging. Many discipleship guides suggest new believers begin in the New Testament, focusing on Jesus.
Common starting points:
- One of the Gospels (Mark or John) to see Jesus’ life and teaching.
- Then Acts, to see how the risen Jesus works through the early church.
A discipleship plan for new Christians often recommends a clear reading plan rather than “open and point” or random verses. That helps you see whole stories and arguments, not just isolated sentences.
One simple rhythm to start this week
Here is a practical Bible‑reading rhythm for the next seven days.
- Pick a Gospel.
Choose Mark or John. Mark is shorter and fast‑moving; John lingers on who Jesus is and why He came. - Set a daily time.
Aim for 10–15 minutes at the same time each day (for many people, first thing in the morning or just before bed). - Use “Read – Reflect – Respond.”
- Ask God to speak.
Before you read, pray something like, “Lord, open my eyes to see wonderful things from Your Word and help me to do what You show me.” (see Psalm 119:18).
Over time, this simple habit—Scripture, a few honest questions, and a short prayerful response—will do more to grow your faith than any one big spiritual moment. In the next session, you will look more closely at prayer itself: how to talk with God throughout your day.
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