You really don’t need to read the 1 year bible in 1 year.

The Message version

Mark the date in your bible to chronicle your journey.

Did you start the new year with a resolution to read your bible everyday? Or at least read it “more”?

How’s that goin’ for ya?

I don’t say that to criticize or make you feel bad.

In fact, I hope I can encourage you!

My daughter Olivia pointed to the book on the kitchen table – “Gosh Mom it’s taking you a long time to read that book, it’s been there forever.”

I looked over half-expecting to see a book sitting there but it was only my bible.

I responded with – “That’s my bible silly girl.”

Now granted it doesn’t look like a typical bible so I think that’s why she didn’t recognize it. But it’s one of my favorite translations.

It’s “The Message” version one year bible, and yes it’s taken me much longer than 1 year to get through the entire bible.

In fact, the first time I read through the entire bible it took me 3 years. How do I know?

Each time I read, I put the date on the page along with any notes, questions or thoughts I have about that day’s reading.

So…..the first time I determined to read through the bible in 1 year ~ it actually took me 3 to get from Genesis to Revelation. Feel better?

Now, doesn’t this encourage you to keep reading?

Don’t worry if it’s been a month since the last time you picked up the bible to read a few pages.
The important thing isn’t how fast you go…it’s that you just keep going!

And here are a few discoveries I’ve made along the way:

• The bible – GOD’S WORD – is powerful. It’s your weapon against the enemy. The enemy doesn’t want you to have any weapons. Think of the bible as your ammo closet. The devil is hoping you never go near it.
• Reading God’s word changes you from the inside out. Not instantly. Not overnight. But if you read on a somewhat consistent basis be prepared for life change.
• The bible is one way that God speaks to you.
• The more you read….the more you will WANT to read.
• You’ll begin to notice a difference on the days that you don’t read.

I could go on and on and probably will in future posts but here’s one last idea to share. The reason Olivia pointed to the bible on the kitchen table is because that’s where I leave it.

Out in the open. Easily accessible. A visual reminder.

Hey, you’d be amazed how much life change happens while the spaghetti is boiling.

Till the next time,

Julie