Do you feel like every time you pick up your Bible you end up getting lost, misunderstanding, or even daydreaming in the middle of a chapter? You’re not alone! Let’s dive into a few practical steps that I’ve taken to help with focus, understanding and clarity while reading the Word.
- Ask God for help
Before opening your Bible, ask God for guidance on what he’d have you read. I’ve found that often when I pray something as simple as “God, help me see and understand what you want me to glean through this text,” his living Word comes alive as he reveals the practical ways I can apply his Word to my life.
- Choose the right version for you
There are hundreds of English versions of the Bible today, ranging from King James Version to The Message. One of the most common excuses I hear from those getting bored reading the Bible or not reaching for it in the first place is that it’s difficult to understand. Finding the version that is best for you can make a huge difference in how much you retain as you read.
The YouVersion Bible App is a great place to start if you want to see many of the available versions. My favorite is the English Standard Version (ESV) since it’s a word for word translation from the original texts. Other great versions to check out are the New Living Translation (NLT), and New International Version (NIV). There are even parallel Bibles and Bible apps like Parallel Plus that allow you to see two different versions side by side for a fuller comprehension and comparison. In my opinion, nothing replaces the physical Word of God, but these apps are a great resource as you look for what resonates with you most.
- Go on a treasure hunt
No word in the Bible is by mistake. As you go into your quiet time, look for evidence that God is uncovering something beautiful beyond the surface. Does the writer repeat himself? Pay extra close attention. For whom was this written? What’s the original meaning of these translated words? Context matters so deeply in reading and understanding scripture. A big, red ‘X’ may not appear as you flip through the pages, but at times it seems like the way the Holy Spirit illuminates the words is just as evident.
- Make it colorful
There are a ton of different ways you can use highlighting, underlining, and journaling to make the text pop as you read. As a kinetic learner, I have to find ways to physically interact with the Bible to really grasp what I’m reading. As I read, I highlight the verses that stick out to me, then I use my journaling Bible to write notes about what God’s telling me as I study and re-read those specific verses once I’m finished with the portion of scripture I’m reading for the day. As I read over the same scriptures again I use additional highlights, underlines, and annotations for anything God is teaching me in that moment.
My husband uses uses certain colors for certain things and takes notes in a separate journal. This helps him study even deeper. Create your own process for how you best interact with the text. I promise you’ll engage in a different way as you read!
- Use a commentary
Probably the most impactful tool in your reading-your-Bible-without-getting-bored toolbelt will be a good commentary. Maybe even two or three! These commentaries are written by theologians; those who study the Word of God deeply, even vocationally. In other words, they’re well-equipped to exegete the text in a way that most people are not. Hear me in this, though. You must be cautious that you don’t allow man’s interpretation of scripture to replace your personal time in the Word.
Yes, commentaries are fantastic tools to help you understand what you’re reading on a deeper level, but they are not the Word of God. I made this the fifth step on purpose. I have found when I read the commentary first it actually shapes how I read and view the scripture, but not necessarily in a positive way.
Think about this… Have you ever heard a story from one person’s perspective, and it gave you a bias as you listened to the next person? People can experience the same exact situation or event and have wildly difference perspectives on it. Imagine how much more that can occur with a Living, Active Word!
Commentaries like Enduring Word, Bible Hub, and Bible Gateway are a great addition to your study of the Bible. God wants to speak through pastors, theologians, leaders, and preachers, but more than anything, He wants to speak to YOU. He has a word for your specific situation or season of life that won’t be found in a commentary alone. Don’t miss out on an opportunity for a direct encounter with the Lord because you’re too quick to listen to the interpretation of others before listening to your Heavenly Father.
- Get in a rhythm
Consistency is key when it comes to any spiritual discipline, and reading the Bible is no exception! Some people like making the very first part of their day their quiet time. I am not a morning person and I have a baby, so in this season of life, I have found I can give my best, undivided attention at bedtime. Whatever it looks like, find a rhythm you can stick to as you prioritize not just reading the Word of God, but actually understanding it.
If you want accountability to stick to the rhythm you create, there are some resources that will genuinely help you stick with it as you grow.
- Read with someone: Life Groups are the number one best way I’ve found accountability in staying in the Word. Keep an eye out for GroupLink in August to get connected with a community of believers who will go through life with you, dive into the Word with you, and hold you accountable to the rhythms you’ve put in place.
- Set a reminder: The YouVersion Bible app has tons of free Bible plans for you to choose from and it will even send you notifications at whatever time of the day you choose to get you reading with the click of a button.
- Use our free resource: Did you know we offer a free RightNow Media subscription to anyone connected to our church? RightNow Media has a huge collection of video resources like sermons, Bible studies, and even kid-friendly Bible content for you to choose from. Whether you want something topical like a study on marriage, or you want to learn more about the book of Isaiah, there’s something for everyone. Head to journeyconnect.org/rightnowmedia to get started today!
Still struggling? Don’t be discouraged! Just like a cheat day on your diet doesn’t mean making healthy choices is pointless, a day of missing your quiet time doesn’t mean you should give up! Keep setting those reminders. Keep trying more of these tips and methods of studying the Bible that will help you stay engaged as you read. As you do, I believe that God will sanctify you (John 17:17), light your path (Psalm 119:105), and equip you for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17). So, what are you reading next?
