An Easy 6-step Method To Help You Dig Deeper into Scripture.
While researching and writing articles for my series on different Bible study methods, I came across a really great method that I wanted to share with you today.
It’s called the Sunshine Bible study method. It’s one of those methods that is wonderful to use if you’ve ever opened your Bible and thought, “I don’t even know where to start!“
And that’s exactly why the Sunshine bible study method is so helpful. It is really simple, and you don’t have to know a ton about the Bible to get started. It is the perfect bible study method if you are looking for something that is structured, allows you to explore Scripture more deeply, while not feeling overwhelming.
If you enjoy the Sunshine Bible Study Method, please pin it so others can find it to!
What Is the Sunshine Bible Study Method?
The Sunshine Bible Study Method is an easy, step‑by‑step way to read and reflect on the Bible. Instead of rushing through chapters, it’s a way to break scripture down into bite-sized pieces and explore those pieces more deeply.
It walks you through a few simple prompts that help you:
- Understand what the verse is saying
- Think about what it means for real life
- Apply it in a practical way
It’s especially popular with people who like Bible journaling, writing things out, or using printable Bible study guides.
Why It Works So Well (Especially for Beginners)
This method doesn’t try to do too much at once.
You focus on one passage, one idea, and one takeaway. That’s it.
If you’re newer to Bible study, it gives you direction so you’re not just staring at the page.
If you’ve been studying the Bible for years, it slows you down in a good way and helps you notice things you might usually skim past.
The Sunshine Bible Study Method (Step by Step)
Here’s how the Sunshine Method usually works. You can do all of this in a notebook, a journal, or use our printable Bible study template, which you can download below.
1. Scripture
Start by choosing a short passage. One or two verses is perfect.
Write the verse out word for word. Don’t rush this part. Writing it slows your mind down and helps you actually notice what the verse is saying.
2. Summary
Now, put the verse into your own words.
Ask yourself: What is this verse saying, plain and simple?
Pretend you’re explaining it to a friend over coffee.
3. Explanation
This is where you think a little deeper. Ask yourself: Who, when, where, why?
For example: What’s going on in this verse? Who is speaking? Who is this verse for? Why might it have been written?
4. Learn
Next, ask: What is this teaching me?
It could be about God’s character and attributes, people, trust, patience, rest, forgiveness, or something else.
Write down the main lesson that stands out to you.
5. Application
This is the heart of the method.
Ask yourself: How can I live this out today or this week?
Keep it practical and realistic.
6. Meditate & Pray
Finally, sit with the verse for a moment.
You can reread it slowly, thank God for it, or turn it into a short, honest prayer. Write it down – No need for perfection, just honesty.
Examples of the Sunshine Method in Action
Let’s say you’re studying Psalm 46:10.
- Scripture: “Be still, and know that I am God.”
- Summary: God is telling me to take a time out and remember who He is.
- Explanation: This verse was written to people facing fear and chaos.
- Learn: I don’t have to always be in control of everything.
- Application: If I feel stressed out today, I can pause, take a breath and remember that God is right there with me.
- Prayer: “Heavenly Father, Help me slow down and trust You more. Amen”
Or perhaps let’s look at Matthew 11:28–30.
- Scripture: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
- Summary: Jesus is asking tired, worn-out people to come to Him.
He’s saying that life with Him isn’t meant to crush us, but to bring rest instead of pressure. - Explanation: Jesus is speaking to people who were overwhelmed by religious rules and everyday life. A “yoke” was something placed on animals to help carry weight together. He’s not saying there’s no responsibility at all, rather He’s saying He carries it with us. That’s very different from trying to do everything alone.
- Learn: I’m allowed to be tired, and rest isn’t a reward for getting everything right; it’s something Jesus actually offers us. I also notice that He describes Himself as gentle, not demanding or harsh. That really stands out to me.
- Application: Instead of pushing myself harder this week, I can pause and ask for help. When I feel overwhelmed, I can remind myself that I don’t have to carry everything alone. One small step: I’ll start my mornings slower instead of immediately stressing about my to-do list.
- Meditate / Pray: “Lord Jesus, I’m tired, and I don’t want to pretend I’m not. Help me slow down and learn how to walk with You instead of pushing myself nonstop.”
How Long Does This Bible Study Take?
That’s the best part.
You can do the Sunshine Bible Study Method in anything from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on how much time you have.
If you want to go deeper, you can. If you’re short on time, you can keep it short. It works for quiet mornings, lunch breaks, or evenings when your brain is tired.
Tips to Make This Method Stick
- Don’t try to be perfect. There are no right or wrong answers.
- Stick to short passages, especially at first.
- Use a printable Bible study guide so you’re not starting from scratch each time (use ours if you don’t have one!).
- Come back to the same verse later and see what stands out differently.
Consistency matters more than doing it “right.”
Is the Sunshine Bible Study Method Right for You?
If you want a Bible study method that feels easy and doable, this one is worth trying.
It’s great for beginners, and it’s flexible enough to grow with you as you learn the Bible more deeply.
Sometimes all you need is a little structure and a lot less pressure.
That’s where the Sunshine Method really shines!
Free Printable: Sunshine Bible Study Method Template
To make this even easier, you can use our Sunshine Bible Study printable.
Its simple layout includes:
- Scripture
- Summary
- Explanation
- Learn
- Application
- Prayer / Notes
Use this as a printable template or guide to create your own layout in your journal. You can also print a few pages, keep them in a binder, or use them digitally.
Free SUNSHINE Bible Study Template
Grab your free SUNSHINE template right here! I’ve also included an example to help you get started!
Enter your email below, and we’ll instantly send your free templates straight to your inbox!
Final Thoughts
I hope that you enjoyed this Sunshine method post! If you are looking for other Bible study methods, don’t forget to check out our SOAP, WORD, and Inductive Bible study method articles as well!
