Tips to Consider for Reading through the Bible

If you have read through the Bible in the past, consider reading through a new version of the Bible this year. Sometimes reading through a new lens helps us understand Scripture in a new and different way, providing relevance for our walk with God today. For instance, if you typically read the King James Version or New International Version, you might consider reading one of the newer translations or paraphrases written in modern, easy-to-understand language. One example of this is The Message, which is a modern paraphrase of the Bible. Another option is the very easy-to-read, yet insightful version known as the New Living Translation. On the other hand, if you are interested in a more in-depth study of Scripture, you might consider a version that is a very close translation of the original Hebrew and Greek languages. Two examples are the New Revised Standard Version and the New American Standard Bible. If you would like further suggestions as to which version of the Bible might be best for you, please e-mail Pastor Mindy Alsworth.

 
Another study habit to consider is journaling, which can provide new depth and insight as you reflect on Scripture. One way of doing this is to simply record your thoughts each day. Reflect on what you feel the Scripture means, what the broader message of this particular Scripture is, and then end by including what you feel the Lord is speaking to you about in this Scripture. One way to best utilize this method is to get three pens of different colors, perhaps blue, black and red. With the blue pen write down what you feel this Scripture means to the reader in general. In the black pen record your prayers or conversations to God. Then, in the red pen record what you feel God is saying directly to you, either through this particular Scripture or by any other means that He has spoken to you. This may be something that He has urged you to do as a result of this Scripture, a confession that you need to make, someone you need to pray for, a word of encouragement you need to give to someone, etc. While this method may take a little getting used to, I think that you will find it rewarding in the long run, as you look back on specific ways that the Lord has spoken to you.