The H.E.A.R. Method

H.E.A.R. is a four-step journaling approach that helps you engage deeply with Scripture. Each letter represents a step:

H — Highlight

Read the passage and identify one verse or phrase that stands out to you. Write it down in your own words or quote it directly. Give it a short title.

Ask yourself: What is the Holy Spirit drawing my attention to?

E — Explain

In a few sentences, explain what the passage meant to its original audience. Consider the historical context, the author’s purpose, and the literary context.

Ask yourself: What did this mean to the people who first heard or read it?

A — Apply

Write one or two sentences about how this passage applies to your life today. Be specific.

Ask yourself: What does God want me to know, believe, or do in response to this truth?

R — Respond

Write a brief prayer responding to what you have read. You can also note one specific action step you will take.

Ask yourself: What will I do with what I have learned?

You can access the H.E.A.R. Journal by clicking the pencil icon in the toolbar when you are on a day page, or by visiting your study’s Journal page from the menu.

To enable the journal icon, turn it on in Settings.