If you’re a new Christian, or maybe thinking about becoming a Christian, someone may have told you the next step is to start reading the Bible. These days, there are a lot of opinions thrown around about the Word of God and that might leave you confused about whether it’s relevant, necessary, or trustworthy. There are a lot of Bible scholars and teachers who have written extensively about the validity of the Bible, and I encourage you to read about it. But to start, I just want to encourage you to build a Bible habit based on the joy and I’ve found over time in pursuing time in the Word. Let’s start out by hearing a little of what the Bible has to say about itself.
What Does The Bible Say About Itself?
“All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.” 2 Timothy 2.16-17 NLT
“Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth.” John 17.17 NLT (Jesus speaking.)
“For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.” Hebrews 4.12 NLT
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How To Build a Bible Habit
“As countercultural and counterintuitive as it may feel, submission to God’s Word is where true life and freedom are found.” Matt Smethurst
The Bible is our main way to learn about who God is, what’s important to Him, how He feels about us, and the way to live life how He intended. It can seem intimidating at first, but with a little work and dedication, it can be the most life-giving habit in your life. But how exactly can you build a Bible habit?
- Pray about it.
Ask God to help you want to prioritize reading the Bible and learning more about who He is.
- Make a plan.
Decide whether you want to use a guided Bible study, a Bible reading plan, or to start at the beginning of the Bible and read on through. If you’re not sure what you want to do, ask a trusted friend or your pastor if they have a preferred way to start.
- Set times to evaluate your plan.
Don’t be afraid to change the plan along the way…remember, this isn’t about meeting a goal or checking something off your list, but about building your relationship with God and growing in your faith. Make an appointment once a month or so in your calendar to check in and see how consistently you’re reading your Bible. Then you can make changes to your routine if you realize you’re not getting around to it.
- Let it be a joy to you.
If you’re really struggling through your Bible reading, look for tools to help you find joy in it. Books, podcasts, Bible study groups, and YouTube videos can be ways for you to dig deeper and learn to love spending time in the Word. While you’re reading, look for the things you learn about God and His character, and allow Him to show you how much He loves you and wants to be in relationship with you.
God has given us this book to know Him- to know His thoughts, His motivations, and His heart. When we are tempted to think the Bible is too hard to understand or too outdated to matter, let us remember it’s our main insight into the heart of God and realize what an incredible gift that is.
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God bless you. Stay hopeful! ❤️
