Maybe you’re new to reading the Bible or just looking for a new tool to help you… either way, I think the REAP method of Bible Study is a simple and easy way to dive a little deeper into the Word. I learned this Bible study method from a previous church I attended, but I’ve seen several churches and Christian leaders/authors/speakers endorse this method.

What is REAP?

REAP stands for Read, Examine, Apply, Pray. It’s a way to help you process what you’re reading.

How to REAP:

• Say a little prayer first. It’s God who reveals Himself to us so ask Him to speak to you.
• READ and reread the passage with an open heart, asking the Holy Spirit to give you words of encouragement, direction, and correction (2 Timothy 3:16 “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness”). Underline or highlight a word or phrase that seems important and that God is using to speak to you.
• Next, EXAMINE. Spend some time reflecting and writing about what you’ve read. Write down one or two of the key things that stuck out to you. It is important to consider the author’s original meaning of the text. Ask yourself these questions and write down your thoughts:
  • What is going on in the passage?
  • Who is writing and who is he writing to?
  • When was the author writing?
  • What are the circumstances that the author is addressing?
  • Does the writer mention anything that might indicate his purpose or intent?
  • How do you think the author wants his audience to respond?
• Next, is APPLY. Meditate on what God is saying to you and how it affects your life.
  • It’s easy to skip application because a lot of times we think the interpretation or information is the goal.
  • So ask yourself these questions about your key verses:
    • Is there a truth to believe? Sin to repent? Promise to claim? Command to follow?
    • What are things that need to change in light of this text?
    • How will I live differently and be different because of what I just read?
• And then we PRAY and repent. Pray through the passage and your application, asking God to change your heart and to change your life, based on what you’ve just read.

(Feel free to print out or Pin this graphic on Pinterest to keep handy while you study.)

Free REAP Journal Page

I find that it’s even more helpful to write it all down, even the Prayer, so I’ve made this free printable journal page. Each half of the page pertains to a part of REAP.

Not everyone writes out linear thoughts when studying, so instead of lines, I’ve used a dot grid on these pages. It’s enough structure to write on if you prefer, or it’s faint enough to ignore if you prefer a more freeform journaling experience.

Here is an example of how you might use this printable:

A couple notes:

If you intend to create a booklet out of your REAP journal pages (or cut them in half to put in a planner), download the Booklet/Planner version. This allows you to simply fold or cut the pages in half, and then Read, Examine, Apply, Pray will be in the correct order.

If you intend to use the page as a single sheet or maybe in a 3-ring binder, download the Full Sheet version. Read and Examine will be on the same page, side by side, and Apply and Pray will be on a second page or the back if you print double-sided.

Or, if you are already a subscriber, go straight to the Resource Library.

If you download this printable and use it, make sure to tag me on Instagram or Twitter (@tashawiginton) and use the hashtag #JournalingWithTasha

Enjoy!