[This post is a part of the Guarding the Heart power series. If you missed it, you can view it here.]
I got to be a part of the 90 days Bible Reading Challenge that changed my perspective on reading the Bible. We sometimes do make it a religious duty that we feel the need to perform but there is more to that than just simply reading the Word of God.
Here are some keys to develop effective daily Bible reading!
Develop the Habit. One of the reasons why many did not want to join the Bible Reading Challenge was because they did not want to do it for the sake of it. Think about it how many times do you feel like going to work out in the gym? Not everyday. And if you were going to be dependent on that feeling then you might end up not doing most things.
Yes, I believe you should not read the Bible for the sake of it. But as you compel yourself to read the Bible intentionally then you will also gradually begin to enjoy reading it, as the Word of God penetrates into your heart.
Lock your Goal. If you are really serious of keeping the Word of God as your priority, then start by setting the goal. I need to confess that 13 chapters in a day for the Bible Challenge felt too much once a while. But that commitment did trouble me for every minute that I did not keep up to it. Start by setting your goal. 5 chapters? 8? You can increase it as time allows but don’t ever decrease it.
Find a Bible Buddy. I had my friend, Pastor Priji who would at times help me along my Bible reading. It was encouraging as he would ask me if I would join him & read today’s portion and at times, we got together in one place to read the day’s portion. Some of them who joined the 90 day’s Bible Reading Challenge were couples. There’s nothing like that! Find your Bible Buddy today.
Try Audio Bible. I have always believed that nothing can replace a paper Bible. I still believe that except for that I stumbled on the audio Bible called, “Bible Experience” through my friend, Savio. I will always treasure it as one of the best gifts I ever got! The audio is just captivating and engaging. And I found myself picking up more key things that I have not picked up while reading. Try a free online audio Bible here or even this.
Make it Personal. Joshua 1: 8 says, “Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.” No matter how many chapters you do in a day, make it personal. Continue to dwell on the Word you read. Think of it over and over again through out the day. Meditate on it day and night till you become consumed by it.
Get a New Bible. Now for those who have overused their Bible. I’ve seen this with many of us that some of us get stuck with a Bible. We know where we’ve underlined, which side of the page we can find that verse and more. Sometimes that can hinder us from looking beyond those underlines. Every time I got a new Bible, I’ve enjoyed fresh observations and new revelations. Try that for a change.
Pray. As simple as it might sound, who best to ask but than the Author of the Bible for help. Make it a habit to ask the Holy Spirit our helper to help you understand, love and walk in His word.
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Here’s a stick it note on my wall – Get creative& in love with the Word.[/caption]
Dear friend, the Word of God will set you free. Make sticky notes. Stick it on your mirror, in your car, everywhere! Enjoy it! Live it! AND LIVE IT LOUD!
(With this, we come to the end of our GTH series, let us know below if you like to have this series in an e-book. Keep tuned and subscribe here for some exciting & educative series ahead)
Now your turn. Have you ever enjoyed loosing your old Bible to start afresh with a new one? What has helped you to read the Bible effectively? Share below in the comments.