As you spend time in God’s Word, prayerfully consider how He may be speaking to you and calling you to respond. The goal is not only to understand the passage, but to allow it to shape your heart, your thinking, and your actions.
S.P.E.E.D. Method
A helpful first step is to reflect on the passage using the SPEED process. As you read, ask yourself:
- Is there a Sin to confess?
- Is there a Promise to claim?
- Is there an Error to avoid?
- Is there an Example to follow?
- Is there a Divine truth to keep in your heart?
This can help you recognise what God may be drawing to your attention in the passage. From there, you can begin to respond personally by asking:
- What is God asking me to do in obedience to His Word?
- What is He asking me to stop doing?
- What is He asking me to keep doing faithfully?
S.M.A.R.T. Method
Once you have identified a response, try to turn it into a clear and practical step of obedience using the SMART approach:
- Specific – Is this step clear and definite?
- Measurable – Will I be able to see whether I am following through?
- Attainable – Is this something I am able to do?
- Realistic – Is it suitable for my life and present situation?
- Time-bound – Have I set a clear time for doing it?
As God brings things to your attention, write down one or more practical goals that reflect your response to Him. Where appropriate, consider sharing them with someone you trust, so that you can be encouraged, supported, and strengthened in living out His Word.
