Dear Michael,
Prayer is hard, but Bible reading is easier—at least for me. Yet that doesn’t mean it’s simple. This critical source of nourishment also needs a plan because you and I face three challenges in being steady in the Word:
· First, what to
read (which Bible);
· Second, where to read (which passages);
Here’s my plan to help you address each of these
challenges.
First, which Bible?
My advice: select a solid translation and use the same translation the rest of your life. That one step will help you remember verses—often word for word—even if you’re not actively trying to memorize them. As the years pass, the same specific words read over and over will slowly settle into your soul.
Now, where to read. If I’m going to be a serious disciple, I need to read the entire Bible.
I need the whole counsel of God—and so do you—and the only way to get it is to read it all. Don’t start in Genesis and try to plow your way through. If you Google “Bible in a year plans,” you’ll find manageable options.
And don’t neglect regular “off
schedule” reading in Proverbs and Psalms. Proverbs are for the mind—for judgment; Psalms are for the heart—for receiving comfort or expressing joy, sorrow or lament. We need them both, regularly, so don’t go long without dipping into these wonderful books. They refresh the soul in vital ways.
Finally, how I read. In brief, I read slowly and actively. I pay attention to the details and especially to the flow of thought.
I also mix my reading with
prayer. Sometimes I pray the prayers of the Bible as if they were my own. Other times I pray the content of a passage, for me or for others. I pray the words, express wonder, give thanks, offer praise, confess shortcomings, ask questions.
So, there’s my brief tutorial. Like many things important, but sometimes burdensome, consistency is key. So, step up. Read regularly, read slowly, read thoughtfully, and read the full counsel of God. Again, action always beats intention.
Greg Koukl
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