How I’m Reading the Bible in 2018

How I’m Reading the Bible in 2018

Every year I’m forced into the dilemma of choosing whether to read through the entire Bible or read just a section. It’s a difficult choice, because neither option seems ideal. If I read through the entire Bible, I often feel like I’m rushing. I don’t have time to linger, to study, and to get a solid grasp of what I am reading. If I choose to only go through a smaller portion, I might have time to delve into it, but I feel like I don’t get the full blessing of all of God’s Word. So do I want quantity or quality? Do I have to choose between the two? How do I get both?

A Two-Pronged Battle Plan

This year I want both. Here’s what I intend to do: I will read through the entire Bible (this year I want to use the chronological reading plan, which goes through the events of the Bible in chronological order). Plus, dividing the year into four quarters, I will focus on four different Bible books, emphasizing one each quarter. This gives me plenty of time to study just that one book, without neglecting the rest of the Bible. (Tentatively, the four books/sections that I plan to study are: 1-2 Kings, James, Proverbs, 1 Timothy).

As I study a different book each section, I’m going to try to get everything I can out of it. This means that I will reread the book a number of times during that quarter. I’ll certainly use some of these excellent suggestions. I’ll also read some highly-rated, solid commentaries to get a deeper understanding of the text. I’ll look for resources to learn more about the geography, history, culture, and background of the text.

As I read through the Bible, I’ll remember the entire story-line. By focusing on four different books, I hope to get a great deal of spiritual value out of them, so that I feel like I have a good ‘grasp’ of these books.

What about You?

If you haven’t yet decided on a Bible reading plan, let me urge you to do so. If you have never read through the Bible before, this is a great year. It really is possible! There are a number of good plans that you can choose from. If you do have a plan in place, great! I’d love to hear what you are doing (feel free to leave a comment). If you feel the same tension that I do – quantity versus quality – you might consider using the same method that I am using. Whatever you do, choose a plan, follow it faithfully, and prepare to receive God’s blessing as you seek Him!

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