How’s your calendar looking?
When I look at mine, August and September are packed with appointments: the dentist, dermatologist, eye doctor, Body Thermo exam, bloodwork, my annual physical, and hair appointments—twice, absolutely. Every four weeks, this gray gets colored!
And that list doesn’t even include appointments for the dog, pest control, meetings, baby showers, wedding showers, and all the other miscellaneous events that fill our schedules.
I don’t have to write down church or Bible reading. Those have become priorities—wonderful habits that I get to do.
If you aren’t reading your Bible regularly, I want to encourage and challenge you to start. Write it on your calendar if you need to. Make it a top priority.
From my own experience, I’ve learned that when I’m not reading God’s Word, my mind wanders more easily in directions it shouldn’t go. My days also don’t seem to be as joyful as they are when I’m immersed in Scripture. When you are bathed in God’s Word, you become better prepared for whatever life throws your way.
The Bible is filled with examples of how to live, what to do, and what not to do. And if you think the Bible is boring—HA! It’s packed with drama, horror, comedy, romance, and family stories. It’s the best book ever!
I’ll admit that there are sections of Scripture that may seem difficult or boring, but hang in there. Allow the vivid truth, parables, and examples to come alive in your mind and heart.
Speaking of difficulty–I told someone, who was a fairly new Christian, that I was reading the book of Ezekiel. They replied, “I was advised not to read that yet because I’m not mature enough.” I giggled and agreed that Ezekiel is a profound book. Oh, but friend, it is so full of wisdom for our consequences, and a message of doom and one of hope. While reading Ezekiel 33, I wrote these reminders in the margins:
- Share the gospel.
- Don’t turn to sin; turn from sin.
- Do what is right and just, and you will surely live.
- Walk the walk and talk the talk.
- Don’t be a Sunday Christian.
- Read and hear God’s Word—and act on it.
- Don’t just listen to the preacher on Sunday, read your Bible, and then continue living unchanged. God’s Word is meant to transform us.
- Be intentional.
When you read the Bible, take notes. Write down questions. Underline or circle the words that stand out to you. Make it personal. Let Scripture speak into your life.
Challenge yourself to read God’s Word every day. As you do, you may find yourself falling more deeply in love with Jesus—with each passing day. Don’t just be a Sunday Christian–live for and learn about our Lord daily.
Blessings to you and yours,
Stephanie
When you see an opportunity like this to climb, how can you not! This tree is probably between 150-170 years old.
Powerscourt Estate in Ireland.
One of the gardens at Powerscourt Estate.