The most important daily discipline for a Christian is that they read their Bible. It is also the most important thing to do for someone seeking the truth. If you think about it, the Bible contains the very words of God for man.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. — II Timothy 4:16-17 (KJV)
Before you start, make sure you have the right Bible. Get a King James Version, also known as The Authorized Version. Do not waver on this one! There are hundreds of different versions out there. It’s very confusing if you start looking at all these modern versions. Get a King James Bible. You will be blessed for doing so. If you need a Bible, you can request one by filling out a form on this website.
If you are just beginning to read the Bible, first read the Book of John. Once you finish John, then start at the beginning of the New Testament with the Book of Matthew and read straight through. When you are done with the New Testament, then read the Old Testament starting in Genesis.
It is interesting to note that if you read just three chapters per day, you can read the whole Bible in a year. This will take you about 15 minutes per day. Spend 30 minutes a day and you can read the Bible through twice in a year. The Bible is an amazing book, as you will learn more every time you read through it. In fact, you need to know the Old Testament to fully understand the New Testament.
If you do decide to read your Bible twice a day, read the New Testament in the morning and the Old Testament in the evening. At three verses each per day you will get through the New Testament twice for every one time through the Old.
A couple “extras” for you daily reading:
- Read a chapter in Proverbs every day. This way you will cover the entire book of Proverbs every month, as it has 31 chapters. You will gain wisdom with this practice and God will speak to you daily in a very practical manner.
- Read a chapter in Psalms every day. I find that Psalms really addresses the struggles of life. I don’t know how many times I have been comforted by a Psalm.
Finally, for motivation, listen to this excellent sermon by Keith Daniel called The Bible.
Keep at this until it becomes a habit. You will grow in your christian walk.
As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: — I Peter 2:2 (KJV)
God bless, Mike