How to Get in the Habit of Reading the Bible
January 13, 2025
In Psalm 34:8 it says, “Taste and see that the Lord is good. How happy is the person who takes refuge in him!” But how can you taste and see that God is good? There are a few different ways, but one way is to start reading the Bible. Starting the habit of reading the Bible regularly can seem daunting, but there are many approachable ways to make God’s Word part of your daily routine.
Here are practical strategies to help you develop the habit of reading the Bible:
Start Small and Be Consistent. Begin with just 10 minutes a day. It’s better to read a small portion consistently than to attempt long sessions sporadically. Choose a specific time that works for you, whether it’s first thing in the morning, during lunch break, or before bed.
Use a Bible Reading Plan. Following a structured plan can help eliminate the uncertainty of what to read each day. Many Bible apps offer various reading plans, from chronological readings to topical studies. Choose one that matches your current season of life and interests. At New Life, we have many different plans that you can choose from to get you started in developing the habit of reading the Bible daily. You can also text “Bible” to 703-454-5990.
Try Different Methods. There are many different ways to read and understand scripture. You could:
- Listen to an audio Bible during your commute
- Read a daily devotional with Scripture references
- Use the SOAP method (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer)
- Join a Bible reading challenge with friends (YouVersion Bible App has lots of studies to choose from)
- Use a journaling Bible to take notes and reflect
Have Accountability. Share your goal with family or friends, or join a Bible study group. Having others to discuss Scripture with can deepen your understanding and help maintain consistency.
Remember the Purpose. Just like anything else you do, reading the Bible can become more of a checking off of the box. That is why it is so important to focus on building a relationship with God rather than checking off the box. Take time to reflect on what you’re reading and how it applies to your life.
Don’t Get Discouraged. When you are reading the Bible, it’s great to be consistently reading daily. However, you are more than likely to miss a day or two. Don’t let it discourage you. If you miss a day, simply start again. The goal isn’t perfection but progress in knowing God through His Word. Every time you open the Bible is an opportunity to grow closer to Him.
Challenge
By reading the Bible you can taste and see that God is good and His promises come through. By implementing these strategies and finding what works best for you, you can develop a meaningful habit of reading the Bible that enriches your spiritual life daily.