Reading the Bible Slowly: How to Let Scripture Speak Clearly

Imagine you’re rushing through lunch. You’ve only got five minutes before an important meeting. Or maybe family dinner is on the go because need to get to your child’s game on time. You grab a sandwich, scarf it down, and head out. It’s not glamorous, but it gets the job done—you’re nourished enough to keep going.

Now, contrast that with celebrating your anniversary at a fine dining restaurant. The ambiance is perfect, the meal is gourmet, and you savor every bite with the love of your life. Both meals serve a purpose, but one is rushed to simply accomplish a basic goal, and the other is an enjoyable and deeply rewarding experience.

Reading the Bible can be the same way. Sometimes, we read quickly to meet a need, such as following the one-year Bible Recap reading plan. While this provides spiritual nourishment, helps us see the big picture, and is a great spiritual discipline to engage in, there is immense value in slowing down to savor God’s Word. Scripture is not just fast food for the soul—it’s gourmet cuisine and it is meant to be enjoyed and meditated upon.

Why Reading the Bible Slowly Matters

1. To Absorb Deep Truths When we rush through Scripture, we might catch the “main idea,” but we miss the nuances. Slowing down allows us to soak in the richness of God’s Word, noticing details and connections we might otherwise overlook. Just as a fine meal reveals layers of flavor, Scripture reveals layers of meaning when we take our time.

Example: Psalm 23 is one of the most beloved passages in the Bible. Reading it slowly allows phrases like “He leads me beside still waters” or “Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me” to sink deeply into your heart. Each phrase becomes an opportunity to meditate on God’s care and presence.

2. To Experience God’s PresenceIn a rushed reading, it’s easy to focus on completing the task rather than communing with God. Slow reading invites us into His presence. It’s like sitting at the table with Him, savoring His words and allowing them to nourish our souls.

Scripture Example: In Luke 10:38-42, Mary sat at Jesus’ feet, listening to Him, while Martha was busy with tasks. Jesus commended Mary for choosing what was better—focusing on Him rather than rushing through responsibilities.

3. To Let Scripture Transform YouReading slowly provides space for the Holy Spirit to work in your heart. Instead of simply gaining knowledge, you’re allowing God’s Word to shape your thoughts, attitudes, and actions. Transformation often comes through meditation, not speed.

   
   

Example: Romans 12:2 reminds us to “be transformed by the renewal of your mind.” This renewal happens as we dwell on God’s truth, letting it replace lies, fears, or misunderstandings.

Two students sitting on outdoor steps, engaged in a discussion while using a laptop and a tablet for study.

Practical Steps for Reading Slowly

1. Choose Short Passages: Instead of trying to read an entire chapter or book in one sitting, focus on a few verses. For example, take John 15:1-5 and meditate on what it means to abide in Christ. Slowing down over these verses allows you to grasp the depth of Jesus’ metaphor of the vine and branches.

   
   

2. Use Journaling: Write out a verse word by word, pausing to reflect on its meaning. Note any repeated words, commands, or promises. Journaling slows you down and helps you process Scripture thoughtfully. As you write, consider how each word contributes to the passage’s overall message.

   
   

3. Practice Lectio Divina: This ancient practice involves reading a passage multiple times, each with a different focus:

   • First Reading: What does the text say?

   • Second Reading: What does it mean?

   • Third Reading: How does it apply to my life?

   • Fourth Reading: What is God calling me to do or change?

     
     

4. Pray Through Scripture: Turn the words of the Bible into a conversation with God. For example, if you’re reading Psalm 23, you might pray, “Lord, thank You for leading me beside still waters. Help me trust in Your guidance.”

   
   

5. Read Aloud: Hearing Scripture can slow your pace and bring out new insights. Reading aloud engages your mind and heart in a unique way, making the text feel more personal and immediate.

   
   

   

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The Contrast: Fast Reading vs. Slow Reading Programs like “The Bible Recap” or “Bible in a Year” plans are excellent for giving you a broad overview of Scripture. They help you see the grand narrative of God’s work from Genesis to Revelation. This type of reading is like grabbing a quick meal—it meets a need and provides nourishment.

However, slow reading allows for deeper connection and transformation. It’s not just about understanding the Bible; it’s about letting the Bible shape your heart and mind. Like a fine dining experience, slow reading invites you to delight in every “flavor” of God’s Word.

Example: Consider the difference between reading Psalm 1 quickly as part of a daily plan versus spending a week meditating on its six verses. The latter approach allows you to reflect on what it means to “delight in the law of the Lord” and be like a tree planted by streams of water.

Why Both Are Valuable While slow reading is transformative, fast reading has its place. Broad reading helps us:

• Gain Perspective: Understanding the overarching story of the Bible.

• Build a Habit: Developing a daily routine of engaging with Scripture.

• Connect Themes: Seeing how God’s promises are fulfilled across books and eras.

Slow reading, on the other hand, is for:

• Meditation: Allowing Scripture to dwell richly in your heart (Colossians 3:16).

• Transformation: Letting God’s Word renew your mind (Romans 12:2).

• Intimacy: Deepening your relationship with the Lord through thoughtful reflection.

Finding Balance: The key is not choosing one method over the other but integrating both into your spiritual life. Some seasons may call for a broad overview, while others require a slower, more deliberate approach.

Cozy, inviting study room with an open book and teapot on a blanket-covered bench, surrounded by bookshelves and a glowing candle by the window overlooking a serene landscape.

Creating a Habit of Slow Reading

1. Set Aside Time: Choose a time when you’re less likely to be rushed. Early mornings, lunch breaks, or quiet evenings can provide space for undistracted reading.

   
   

2. Eliminate Distractions: Turn off your phone or notifications. Find a quiet place where you can focus solely on God’s Word.

   
   

3. Use Tools to Help: A good study Bible, journal, or devotional guide can enhance your slow reading practice. Tools like the ESV Journaling Bible or apps like Bible Gateway allow you to engage deeply with Scripture.

   
   

4. Invite Accountability: Share your goal of slow reading with a friend or small group. Discussing what you’re learning can reinforce your commitment and provide fresh insights.

   
   

Call to Action: This week, set aside 10 minutes to read Psalm 1 slowly. Use journaling or Lectio Divina to meditate on the passage. Write down what God reveals to you and how it applies to your life.

Additionally, choose one day to reflect on a passage you’ve already read in a fast-paced plan. Revisit it with the intention of savoring every word, just as you would savor a gourmet meal.

Remember, the Bible isn’t just meant to be read—it’s meant to be enjoyed, lived, and cherished. Let Scripture speak clearly as you take the time to savor its truths. God’s Word is not a task to complete but a treasure to delight in. As you embrace slow reading, you’ll discover not only deeper truths but also a deeper connection with the Author Himself.