Bible Reading Tips
Reading the Bible is a very important part in our Christian walk, but let's be honest, it can be a struggle to do so consistently. So how can we make Bible reading a daily discipline? Here are some tips.
WHY READ THE BIBLE?
1. Reading the bible will keep us from sin.
Psalm 119:11 says, “I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” That’s not just reading the Word but memorizing it! (Family devotions) A number of years ago I saw on the cover of a church bulletin these two statements: At the top of the picture, it said: This book will keep you from sin. And at the bottom it read: Sin will keep you from this book.
2. Reading the Bible teaches us to know what is truth.
Truth is embodied in the person of Jesus Christ. As a matter of fact, He says so Himself. “I am the way, the truth and the life.” (John 14:6) The Bible is our final authority.
3. Reading the Bible allows God to be able to speak to us through His Word.
Hebrews 1:1-2 “In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days He has spoken to us by His Son…”
4. Reading the Bible allows us to receive the desires of our heart.
The Apostle John says this: “If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” (John 15:7) The secret to answered prayer is remaining in Christ. The more intimate that our life in Christ is through prayer, fasting, worship, meditation on and study of the Scriptures, the more our prayers will be in line with the nature and words of God.
5. Reading the Bible gives us courage.
When Joshua was taking over the leadership from Moses, at his installation service, he was given this charge. “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.” (Joshua 1:8)
6. Reading the Bible helps us to be fruitful.
Psalm 1 teaches us not rely on or seek the counsel of those who are not Christians. But it also goes on to tell us how to become spiritually strong and fruitful. “But his delight in the Law of the Lord, and in his law He meditates day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.” (Psalm 1:2-3)
TIPS ON HOW TO READ THE BIBLE
One bible commentator came up with what he called the 7 Rs for reading the Bible. This is another great way to read and enjoy the Word. As you approach the Word:
Relax: it is difficult to inscribe anything on a mind that is preoccupied.
Recall: Who is writing? To Whom? How does it apply to me?
Rehearse: If it speaks directly to you, keep turning it over in your mind; meditate on it.
Retain: If the scripture strikes you memorize it.
Rejoice: Enjoy your devotional time with God.
Realign: As you read the Word, keep realigning your life with it.
Release: When something thrills you, pass it on.
OTHER HELPFUL TIPS TO ENHANCE YOUR BIBLE READING HABIT
1. Make it a daily habit.
God is able to do His best work through the Bible when you faithfully make it a part of your daily routine. Simply taking a few minutes at the beginning or end of each day to read the Bible will retrain your mind to keep Scripture at the forefront of your thoughts. Find the schedule that works best for you. Some prefer to read the Bible immediately when they wake up in the morning, and others find pockets of time throughout the day or right before bed. The specific timing doesn’t matter; what matters is making it a daily habit.
2. Make it your first priority.
Having said the foregone, reading the Bible should still always be made a high priority. This can take some effort if you are just starting the habit, but it always pays off by bringing you closer to God each day. If you have not already started reading directly from Scripture each day, today is the perfect day to begin.
3. Read the entire Bible cover to cover – don’t leave anything out.
It is easy to pull key verses out or focus on books that are easier to comprehend. People sometimes avoid longer, more complex passages in the Old Testament for this very reason. However, it is critical that you read the entire Bible in order to fully understand God’s message to us and to see how God is working throughout history. Nothing is in the Bible by accident; remember, all Scripture is given to us directly from God. Don’t leave anything out.
4. Find a quiet place to read.
One of the best tips for reading the Bible effectively is to minimize distractions. Turn off your phone and computer, as well as any TV or music. Find a quiet place to read, whether it’s a special room in the house, closing your office door, or even in your car (not while driving, of course). This allows you to pay closer attention to what you’re reading and keeping you fully focused on God.
5. Read with your heart open.
God wants to change your life and make you His, and the primary way He does this is through the Bible. Open up your heart to what God is telling you through His Word, and you can discover the riches of His love and His will for you.
