How to Build a Bible Reading Habit That Lasts

How To Build A Bible Reading Habit That Lasts

So, you want to start a Bible reading habit that actually sticks. First off, that’s wonderful. Reading the Bible can provide guidance, comfort, and spiritual growth, but turning it into a consistent part of your daily routine can feel challenging. Let’s walk through some steps to help you develop a Bible reading habit that will endure the ups and downs of daily life.

Start With Why

Before diving into strategies and plans, pause and ask yourself why you want to develop this habit. Is it to deepen your faith, understand scripture better, or find peace? Knowing your why will keep you motivated when life gets busy. Write it down—keep it somewhere you can easily see when you need a reminder.

Keep It Simple at the Start

When you’re just beginning, it’s essential not to overwhelm yourself. Starting with an ambitious plan might be tempting, but it often leads to burnout. Instead, start small. Maybe commit to reading one chapter a day or even a passage. As you become more comfortable with your routine, gradually increase the amount you read.

Choose a Time and Place

A consistent time and place will help cement your Bible reading habit. Are you a morning person? Perhaps you’d like to start your day with some quiet time and reflection. Or maybe your evenings are more peaceful and offer a better chance to focus. Whatever you decide, stick to it. The habitual nature of meeting the same time and place will enhance your dedication.

Utilize a Beginner-Friendly Reading Plan

The Bible is a vast book, comprising many different genres and styles of writing. To make it less daunting, follow a reading plan—consider one designed for beginners. A reading plan can give structure and ensure you’re consistently moving forward. You might start with the New Testament, focusing on the Gospels. Here’s a beginner-friendly plan on Bible Gateway.

Set Realistic Goals

Measure your progress not by the number of chapters read but by what you retain and apply in your life. Set achievable goals, like completing a Gospel or a couple of epistles. Over time, you’ll realize it’s not just about the volume of reading but the quality and depth of understanding.

Encourage Accountability

You’re not alone on this journey. Share your intentions with a friend or a small group from your church. Keeping each other accountable adds a layer of commitment. Maybe send each other a text each day with a thought from your reading. Discussing insights or questions can deepen your understanding and your relationships.

Use Tools Wisely

The beauty of living in the digital age is the accessibility of various helpful tools. Use an app for Bible reading, like YouVersion, which sends reminders and offers a host of reading plans. Audio Bibles are also an option if reading isn’t always feasible; listen during your commute or while doing chores.

Reflect and Pray

It’s one thing to read, but don’t skip the opportunity to reflect on the passages and what they mean for your life. Take a few moments to pray before and after reading. Ask for understanding and application in your life. Consider jotting down a few thoughts in a prayer journal to track your journey and growth.

Be Kind to Yourself

Remember, this habit is for your personal growth. Some days you’ll miss your reading time, and that’s okay. Life happens. The crucial part is to get back to it the next day with no guilt. Perfection isn’t the goal—consistency and grace are.

Find Inspiration in Community

If you find your motivation waning, look to others for inspiration. Read books or listen to speakers who talk about their journey with Bible reading. Engage in Bible study groups where discussing and sharing broaden your perspective and foster enthusiasm.

Celebrate Your Progress

Every milestone in building your Bible reading habit deserves celebration. Whether you’ve completed a book or remained consistent for a month, recognize your achievement. Celebrating these moments will boost your motivation and reinforce the habit further.

Stay Faithful to Your Journey

Enduring habits are the ones that we align with our core values. Stay anchored by returning to your initial “why.” Remember, it’s a journey of personal growth and deepening faith. Each day offers a new opportunity for learning and connection with Scripture.

Building a Bible reading habit that lasts isn’t about completing the Bible in record time, but about the ongoing dialogue with your faith that enriches your everyday life.

Explore More

For further reading and encouragement, check out these posts:

👉 7 Bible Verses About Faith in Hard Times

👉  Job’s Faith: What We Can Learn From His Trials

👉 How To Trust God When Everything Falls Apart

👉 Why God Allows Suffering – A Biblical Perspective

👉 Faith Over Fear: How To Stand Strong In Uncertain Seasons

👉 How To Encourage Someone Struggling With Their Faith

👉 5 Prayers for Strength When You’re Feeling Weak

📘 Jesus and the Woman Caught in Adultery – Grace and Mercy Over Judgement
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