Day 13: Reading the Bible
How do you read the Bible? Is there one right way?
How do you read the Bible? Is there one right way? Sometimes it can be a bit difficult to start reading the Bible on your own since the names of the books, people, and places are not familiar to us. Here are a few facts to help get you started: The Bible is divided into two parts—the Old Testament and the New Testament. The Old Testament covers the history of Israel’s relationship with God and looks forward to God sending Jesus as Savior. The New Testament begins with the coming of Jesus in the first four books (called The Gospels), followed by the letters which tell us how to now live as Christians. Since Christ is the focus of both the Old and the New Testament, a great place to start your reading is with one of the four Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John.
"When your words came, I ate them; they were my joy and my heart’s delight, for I bear your name, O Lord God Almighty." Jeremiah 15:16
"Jesus replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it." Luke 11:28
God Speaks Through the Bible
The rest of the Bible is for your benefit too. Joshua 1:8 says, “Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.” It is filled with answers to your questions about life and God, and God can speak personally to you through it. Remember, God has given the Holy Spirit as your teacher and He will be your guide as you read the words He inspired. Paul tells us in Romans 8:16, “The Spirit Himself testifies within our spirit.” Why don’t you start reading the Bible everyday? You can start in one of the Gospels in the New Testament, and ask God to speak to you about Jesus. God wants to open your mind to understand His word and change you into His image as you read it. Try to dedicate 15 minutes a day to reading the Bible and see what God does in your life.
"Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you." James 1:21
What did God teach you about Himself and/or yourself the last time you read His Word? Talk to someone about it.
Connect