Resolve to Read the Bible!

“I believe the Bible is the best gift God has ever given to man. All the good from The Savior of the world is communicated to us through this Book.”  - Abraham Lincoln

The beginning of a brand-new year is filled with hopes and dreams. It is a time to start fresh, wipe the board clean, and change up one's life for the better.

For this reason, many will devise a list of resolutions, or intentions, to help them visualize and measure their progress along the way.

The key to success in whatever you are striving for in life is to "keep it real." Nothing stifles New Year's resolutions faster than impractical expectations.

Let's take the Bible for example. Many set out to read through it in a year. While some can and do prevail, many will fizzle out after only a few months. Why..?

The cause may not all be due to a lack of motivation or ambition. Things come up, life happens, pressure builds, frustration appears, then guilt sets in. We can all associate with this.

First, let me say that there is nothing chiseled in stone that requires one to read the Bible completely in a year. Will it make you less of a Christian if you don't? No.

We are all different individuals. As such, it's a good bet that the way one person approaches reading the Bible may differ from another. The secret is to find a method that works best for you!

Some like to read the Bible effectively, with a specific purpose in mind. Others prefer to read it efficiently, in the best possible manner with minimal waste of time and effort.

No matter which way you choose (some may prefer a mix of both) always begin with prayer. Ask the Holy Spirit for help in understanding (John 16:13).

Perhaps consider dipping your toe in Scripture at first. For new readers, the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John) are a good place to get your biblical feet wet.

Even so, reading a verse or two, or even a paragraph each day is enough. The aim is to gradually get into the habit without becoming overwhelmed.

Here are some other pointers to help you get the most out of your Bible reading:

1) When reading a verse keep the context in mind. By context, I mean the circumstances forming the background of an event, idea or statement in such a way as to understand the narrative (sequence of events) or a written selection.

2) Depending on what you are reading, understand the cultural differences. The Bible was not written in modern times. If you can. try to put yourself into the time, place, and culture of the people at that time.

3) Identify the type of writing you are reading. The Bible contains many different kinds, including: history, letters, prophecy, law, poetry, etc. To avoid confusion, do not read one in the same manner you would another..

4) It's also beneficial to think about how you can apply (application) the reading to your own life. For instance, ask "How do these particular verses apply to my daily life?" "What questions did my reading bring up?' "What did I learn about the person or people I read about?

Above all, always keep in mind that the Bible is not just another book to be read. We are invited to study and allow it to influence our lives (2 Timothy 3:16-17), and "let the message of Christ dwell among you richly."

Scripture: Hebrews 4:12; Matthew 4:4; John 17:17; Job 23:12; Matthew 24:35

Prayer: Dear Jesus, help me move into a deeper understanding of Your truth. May Your words inspire, heal, cleanse, and teach me. Amen.

May your day be blessed,

Amy Jo