I do not think there is any ingredient more important in the recipe for growing as a disciple of Jesus than regular and systematic reading of his Word. It is guaranteed to always produce results (Isaiah 55:8-11). It comes directly from God and is "profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction and for training in righteousness" (2 Timothy 3:16).
So what is the plan? I invite you to set up a plan for the year of 2011. Here are some options:
a) Read through the entire Bible in one year. It takes about 23 chapters a week or 3-4 (about 15 minutes) per day. There is a chronological (read it in the order in which it was written) reading schedule that will be available at the Connection Center to guide you through this method. This would be for you who find that you can read fairly consistently, almost every day. This is a great overview approach and includes all God intended for us.
b) Read through the New Testament in one year. This averages out to about 5 chapters per week. If you have never read through the New Testament then this would make an achievable and worthwhile goal for the year.
c) Read through an entire book of the Bible before beginning to read another book. Begin with one of the Gospels (I recommend Mark for action or Luke for people), then read Acts, then Romans, then some of Paul’s letters and end with the Book of Revelation.
The ESV (English Standard Version) is the Bible translation we use at Valley and my preferred translation. They have the ESV Study Bible which provides many notes and articles to guide your reading no matter where you read. It also provides an excellent introduction to each book of the Bible. The notes are designed to help you keep your reading in the context of the "big story" of the Bible. This can be helpful no matter what your Bible reading experience is.
If you are a person who has trouble sitting down to read a book, why not try the Bible on CD or on MP3? There are several versions available.
I also urge you to keep a notebook/journal even if you limit yourself to sum your reading or one chapter in one line. Look for the theme, key thought, not so much for what you are familiar with or what you like to make sure that we look for what God emphasizes for our lives.
Can you imagine how much people would be willing to pay to spend 15 minutes in their life with the wisest person in the world? We get to spend that every day, all day with the wisest Person even outside our world. What a privilege! Make sure to read not for information or a goal but a relationship.
by Pastor John Westerholm