Why We Don't Interpret Scripture
Why We Don't Interpret Scripture
There's a subtle but profound shift that happens when we approach the Bible. Many of us have been taught to "interpret" Scripture—to analyze it, decode it, figure out what it really means. But what if that's not what we're called to do at all?
The Problem with Interpretation
When we interpret Scripture, we unconsciously place ourselves above the text. We become the judge, the decoder, the one who determines meaning. But Scripture wasn't written to be interpreted—it was written to interpret us.
"For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." — Hebrews 4:12
Notice the direction: God's Word judges us. Not the other way around.
Receiving vs. Interpreting
There's a fundamental difference between receiving and interpreting:
Interpreting says: "What does this mean?"
Receiving says: "What is God saying to me?"
Interpreting engages the mind.
Receiving engages the whole person—mind, heart, and spirit.
Interpreting seeks to master the text.
Receiving allows the text to master us.
The Ancient Practice of Lectio Divina
For centuries, Christians have practiced Lectio Divina—sacred reading. This ancient approach to Scripture involves four simple movements:
- Read (Lectio) - Slowly, attentively, listening
- Meditate (Meditatio) - Reflecting on what resonates
- Pray (Oratio) - Responding to God's voice
- Contemplate (Contemplatio) - Resting in God's presence
Notice there's no step called "interpretation." Instead, there's listening, reflecting, responding, and resting.
This is similar to the approach described in A Quiet Way to Read the Bible Daily where we focus on creating space for Scripture to speak directly to your heart.
Scripture Interprets Us
When we come to the Bible, we're not conducting an academic exercise. We're encountering the living God who speaks through His Word. And His Word has a way of exposing what's really in our hearts.
David prayed:
"Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." — Psalm 139:23-24
This is the posture we need: Open. Vulnerable. Willing to be searched and known.
What This Means for Daily Selah
This is why we built Daily Selah differently. We don't give you commentary or interpretation. We don't tell you what a verse means. Instead, we:
- Present you with Scripture through our Bible Reader
- Ask you where you are emotionally and spiritually
- Give you space to reflect
- Provide prompts that help you hear God's voice
- Allow the Holy Spirit to do His work
We believe the Holy Spirit is a better teacher than any commentary. And God's Word is powerful enough to accomplish His purposes without our clever analysis.
The Invitation
So we invite you to try something different. Don't come to Scripture to master it. Come to be mastered by it. Don't try to interpret it. Let it interpret you.
Read slowly. Listen deeply. Respond honestly. Rest fully.
The Bible isn't a puzzle to solve—it's a Person to encounter.
Consider pairing your reading with reflection and prayer. Learn how in our guide on How to Keep a Prayer Journal.
Selah.
Pause. Listen. Receive.
Daily Selah is designed to help you encounter God through His Word, not just study about Him. Every verse, every reflection, every prayer is an opportunity to hear His voice and respond to His love.