Every year, we encourage our church to read through the Bible. There are a variety of reading programs available online. This year we will read through the New Testament, as well as the books of Psalms and Proverbs.
There is a great benefit in using a devotional format for Bible reading aimed at hearing from God daily and responding to his leading. The goal is not to just ‘get through’ your Bible reading but to allow God’s Word to ‘get in’ to your heart and life, bringing about personal growth and positive change.
As you do your daily reading, consider using the following devotional format:
Scripture – write out a verse or two that speak specifically to you today.
Observation – make a note of what you observe in the text. What was happening back 'there and then'?
Application – write out how God’s Word applies to your life. What does this mean to you 'here and now'?
Prayer – write out a prayer of response to what God has said to you.
You can do this by yourself, with your family, with some friends or as part of your Life Group. As you make your time with God and his Word the priority of your day, you will experience a tangible ‘washing of the Word’ in your heart and life.
I am loving reading through the NT using the daily reading plan. Just wondering what translation you prefer, Mark?
Hi Sally
I use the NIV mainly, but also really like the NLT (New Living Translation) and The Message Bible. You can access these via our church web site under ‘Resources’. All the best! Mark
Hi Mark,
given that you are an avid reader, may I recommend a book.
God Is Back: How the Global Revival of Faith Is Changing the World.
Authors: John Micklethwait (editor in chief of The Economist)& Adrian Wooldridge (Economist’s Washington bureau chief & Lexington columnist).
An amazing and insiteful book on the raising again of religious faith, written by a pair of journalists. Check it out on Amazon -you won’t find it at WORD or KOORONG.
Hi Mark,
What is your take on Jeremiah 29?
Hi Terry.
Yes, someone else recommended that book to me so I purchased it a few months back. Haven’t read it yet though … hope to this hear some time.
Thanks
Hi Elaine
Haven’t been reading Jeremiah lately. Loving the Gospel of Matthew at the monent.
Thanks