As I have mentored people in reading the Bible, I have noticed some common avoidable pitfalls. Here are seven of the most common:
1. Trying to read straight through. I can’t tell you how many times I started at Genesis, but got bogged down in Leviticus or Numbers and gave up. I have found this is a very common story. So, follow a good Bible reading plan that eases you into some of the hard to read books of the Old Testament.. Click here to find several great ones.
2. Not praying. When you read the Bible ALWAYS start by praying. This seems so obvious and yet easily forgotten. Ask for the Holy Spirit to guide your reading and understanding of God’s Holy Word. Ask for God to reveal to you how you should apply Gods Word in your life.
3. Not applying what you read. If you find God revealing to you something you should do through your reading, apply it. Read to be transformed, not just to rack up a bunch of Bible facts or be able to say you have read it. Transformation comes through application. Applying God’s Word will change your life for the better.
4. Not having a set daily time. I surveyed people who were all on the same reading plan and after 30 days, people with a set reading time were twice as likely to be on schedule than those without. More importantly, people who scheduled their time were 5 times less likely to have quit. So do yourself a favor and pick a time and place when you will read, so it becomes a habit.
5. Making exceptions. Skipping a day is a great way to begin not reading. When people start skipping a day here and there, eventually they get far enough behind that catching up isn’t realistic so they give up. The key is to never make an exception. Trust me it can be done. I have read a minimum of 4 chapters every day for 29 years, without missing a day. You can too.
6. Not taking notes. Taking notes keeps you engaged with your reading. You will see and learn more if you just read with a pencil in hand. I underline or circle words and phrases that draw my interest. I make notes in the margins and journal afterwards. Holding a pencil is the easiest way to hold your attention.
7. Not sharing what they learn. When you try to explain something you have learned, you solidify your understanding of it. Not to mention, your sharing could possibly make a huge impact on the person you share it with.
Blessings on your reading of God’s Holy Word,
John Arnold
The Practical Disciple