Saved Not Soft Podcast: How to Read Your Bible

Host: Emy Moore
Episode: How to Read Your Bible
Release Date: May 13, 2025

Introduction

In the "Saved Not Soft" podcast, host Emy Moore delves deep into the challenges of living a Christian lifestyle amidst today’s societal obstacles. In the episode titled "How to Read Your Bible," released on May 13, 2025, Emy provides a comprehensive guide to biblical literacy, empowering listeners to engage with the Scriptures meaningfully.

Personal Journey and Passion for the Word

Emy begins the episode by sharing her personal excitement about entering a new season of life—"[00:00] I'm 99 days from becoming a wife... Life is becoming a little bit too real." This transition underscores her dedication to deepening her relationship with God and the Bible. She reflects on her journey, highlighting how pivotal moments, such as attending the Passion Conference in Atlanta, ignited her passion for Scripture. Emy shares, "[04:50] The first Scripture I actually got and understood was John 1:1... 'In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was God.'" This revelation was a turning point that solidified her commitment to biblical study.

The Importance of Biblical Literacy

Emy emphasizes the necessity of biblical literacy, stating, "[03:25] Biblically literate and theologically sound as much as I can." She addresses a common issue within the Christian community—"One out of five regular churchgoers have never read their Bible." Emy stresses that understanding the Bible is not merely an academic exercise but a transformative process that shapes one’s faith and actions.

Introducing the POIMA Method

Emy introduces the POIMA method as a structured approach to Bible study, an acronym for Prayer, Observation, Interpretation, Meditation, and Application. She explains, "[07:15] POIMA stands for Prayer, Observation, Interpretation, Meditation, and Application—each step building upon the last to deepen your understanding and relationship with God’s Word."

1. Prayer ([08:30])

Emy begins by highlighting the foundational role of prayer in Bible study. She shares her personal prayer routine before reading the Scriptures:

• Openness: "[08:45] Lord, I come to your book with an open mind, open heart, open spirit."
• Surrendering Personal Agendas: "[09:00] I take off any false doctrine and self-agenda, allowing Your Word to speak for itself."
• Seeking Understanding: "[09:25] Lord, help me to understand the Scriptures and reveal Your will to me."

She underscores that "Prayer is not a monologue but a dialogue" and essential for inviting God to illuminate the Scriptures.

2. Observation ([15:10])

Observation involves asking critical questions about the text:

• Contextual Understanding: "[15:20] What is the authorial intent and the timeless truth tied to this scripture?"
• Historical and Cultural Context: "[16:00] Understanding the time period, location, and characters is crucial."

Emy uses the example of Hosea to illustrate how context shapes interpretation: "[16:45] Hosea was commanded to marry a prostitute to symbolize God's relationship with unfaithful Israel."

3. Interpretation ([21:30])

This step focuses on answering the questions raised during observation. Emy recommends reliable resources:

• Desiring God by John Piper: "[22:10] A theologically sound study guide that breaks down scriptures effectively."
• Enduring Word: "[22:25] Excellent for verse-by-verse analysis."
• Tool Haven App: "[22:40] An AI-powered tool for quick answers and deeper insights."

She advises verifying interpretations through trusted sources to ensure accuracy.

4. Meditation ([28:00])

Meditation is described as intentional deep thinking and reflection on the Scriptures:

• Internalizing the Word: "[28:15] Meditation allows the Word to resonate in your heart, transforming knowledge into wisdom."
• Creating Space for Reflection: "[28:30] Just as a wrung-out sponge can absorb more water, a mind free from distractions can better absorb God's Word."

Emy dispels misconceptions about meditation, clarifying that it is not witchcraft but a vital component of spiritual growth.

5. Application ([35:20])

The final step involves putting the learned principles into action:

• Living Out the Word: "[35:35] Application transforms head knowledge into lived experience and actions."
• Evidence of Faith: "[35:50] Faith manifests through works, as James 2:17 states, 'Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.'"

Emy shares personal anecdotes, such as how studying modesty transformed her behavior, illustrating the practical impact of applying biblical teachings.

Recommended Resources

Emy provides valuable resources to aid in Bible study:

• Desiring God by John Piper
• Enduring Word
• Tool Haven App

She emphasizes the importance of utilizing these tools to deepen understanding and ensure accurate interpretations.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Emy concludes by urging listeners to embrace the POIMA method:

"If you're struggling with how to read your Bible, today is the day to start. Apply what you've learned, cultivate an intimate prayer life, and let the Holy Spirit guide your study." ([48:50])

She reinforces the significance of personal Bible study over passive consumption of sermons and podcasts, stating:

"Let us be a generation that finds His Word worthy to listen to and read, grounding ourselves in biblical truth rather than our own understanding." ([50:10])

Emy encourages listeners to move beyond being mere attendees of the podcast and to actively engage with the Scriptures, fostering a transformative relationship with God.

Notable Quotes:

• Emy Moore at [09:00]: "I take off any false doctrine and self-agenda, allowing Your Word to speak for itself."
• Emy Moore at [15:10]: "POIMA stands for Prayer, Observation, Interpretation, Meditation, and Application—each step building upon the last to deepen your understanding and relationship with God’s Word."
• Emy Moore at [28:00]: "Meditation allows the Word to resonate in your heart, transforming knowledge into wisdom."
• Emy Moore at [35:50]: "Faith manifests through works, as James 2:17 states, 'Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.'"

Final Thoughts

Emy Moore’s detailed exploration of the POIMA method in this episode serves as an invaluable guide for Christians seeking to enhance their Bible-reading practices. By emphasizing prayer, observation, interpretation, meditation, and application, Emy equips listeners with the tools necessary for a deeper, more meaningful engagement with the Scriptures. Her personal insights and practical advice inspire a commitment to biblical literacy, encouraging believers to transform their faith through the living Word of God.