Unpack YOUR Bible with Pastor Rafael Aristy

How do we move from just reading the Bible to truly being transformed by it?In this episode, we unpack simple, practical ways to engage with God’s Word daily and build rhythms that actually fit your life.We also talk about finding what works best for you—because every season looks different. Whether you’re reading for relationship and renewal or diving in for deeper study, both matter.And remember: always read through the lens of the original audience the author was writing to. God’s Word is timeless—but how we live it out today can look different depending on culture and context.Takeaway Guide1. Prepare Before ReadingGoal: Create consistent habits that invite God’s presence and prepare your heart.Pray first: Before opening the Bible, ask the Holy Spirit to reveal truth and understanding (1 Corinthians 2:11–12).Example prayer: “Lord, open my eyes to see what You want to teach me today.”Schedule your time: Choose a daily time slot to meet with God and set a reminder.Pick a starting point: Start with John, Luke, or Acts, or follow a reading plan (Crossway, BibleProject, Bible App).Make a plan and stick with it: Print or bookmark your plan and track your progress.2. Read in ContextGoal: Understand what the text really says—not just what we want it to mean.Ask context questions: Who wrote this? Who were they writing to? What was happening at that time? What comes before and after?Note the type of context:Historical/Cultural: What was the world like then?Literary: What kind of writing is this (story, poetry, letter)?Covenantal: What promise or covenant was in place?Read surrounding verses: Understand the passage within its full neighborhood.Use study tools: Study Bibles, commentaries, or BibleProject videos can help deepen understanding.3. Reflect and ApplyGoal: Move from information to transformation.Reflect daily: Pause after reading to meditate on what God is saying (Psalm 1:1–3).Journal insights: Write thoughts, questions, or key verses in a notebook or your Bible margins.Ask growth questions:What does this reveal about God?What should I do differently?Live it out: Apply one truth each day—speak it, pray it, or act on it.Share what you learn: Talk with a friend, small group, or family member.Weekly ChallengeChoose one set time to read each day.Follow your chosen plan for seven days.Write one reflection per day (even a sentence).On Sunday, review your notes—what truth stood out most?📖 Explore more Bible study tools and resources at:goodnews.church/bible-study