There are so many ways we can approach the Scriptures for our benefit. Reading the Bible for knowledge, memorization, inductive reading, etc. One way that was newer to me, at least, is reading for saturation.
Reading for saturation is where we soak our minds and hearts so regularly in the Scriptures that they begin to saturate our being.
Imagine dropping a sponge in a bucket of water and pulling it out a minute later. Water would thoroughly saturate that sponge, and you would notice it leaking from every pore.
Our hearts and souls can be the same way as we spend time in the Scriptures. When we allow the Scriptures to soak into our hearts and souls, it really does affect every part of our lives.
We’ll find ourselves recalling the words in different situations throughout the day. Various Scriptures will bubble up as we hit decision points in life or spend time in reflection.
For me, the most significant benefit of saturating in the Scripture is how words from the Bible emerge in my prayers. I find that as I pray, the Lord draws out various Scriptures in the middle of my prayer that direct and guide my heart and mind.
As this happens over and over again, I can look back and see ways in which God is shaping my heart and mind towards Him and His purposes.
I find myself less anxious, filled with a deep peace. I also find myself less reactive and more intentional about my day and how I spend my time.
The benefits aren’t immediate, but this saturation changes us over time, especially as we use it in conjunction with prayer.
Give it a shot! Read a passage and try to go back and forth between the passage and prayer. Let the words of the passage be your prayer, and then let them launch you into your own prayer. When you run out of words, go back to the passage and cycle through again. I’d love to hear how it goes for you.
Some of my personal favorites are: Ps. 1, 4, 16, 19, 23, 27, 63, 103, 131, 146-end. The prayers of the Apostle Paul at the beginning of each Epistle.
Blessings to you all!