How many guides are there about reading the Bible in a year? It seems like that is a common goal among many Christians. However, I think that approach is faulty. More than that, I think the mentality we have towards reading the Scriptures renders them useless when speaking to a needy, hopeless, hurting heart. In this post, I want to offer a couple of suggestions.

First, why do we need to read the Bible anyway? I listen to the preacher, and he knows the Bible. Do I really need to read it for myself? In short, the answer is “Yes!” The Bible is God’s Word to us. He is infinite and eternal, and our finite minds cannot begin to grasp the majesty of God. Yet, He has given us a glimpse of His holiness, love, mercy, and will through the writings, which compose the Bible we have today. It is God’s beautiful picture of redeeming a fallen people – to call a rebellious people to Himself through the person and work of Christ.

Secondly, we often get overwhelmed and frustrated with many parts of the Bible. If you have ever tried reading Leviticus or the books of Chronicles, then you understand. Many say that they don’t read the Bible for that very reason. I understand your frustration. When we read the Bible, many believe they have to understand EVERY part of the Bible or they are a terrible Christian. There seems to be this “I’m not good enough” mentality, but I want to encourage you against this.

Scripture is not clear to everyone at all times. I don’t think the Lord intended it to be. The Bible is meant to foster growth in our lives. I want to pick up the Bible when I’m 70 and find something new, which makes me stand in awe of God’s greatness. Scripture is not meant to discourage us; it is meant to build us up in the knowledge and understanding of the Lord. Push through those passages.

Lastly, I am not discouraging thoughtful, thorough reflection on passages of Scripture, but I am encouraging you not to get stuck there. By reading the Bible with speed and ease, I think one can gain a fuller picture to God’s plan in redemptive history. Don’t think because you glossed over a passage of Scripture or did not fully pronounce a difficult name, you have somehow sinned against the Lord.

Reading 12 chapters a night, one can read through the Bible in about 3 months. Let me pose a challenge: for six months of the year, read the Bible TWICE, and for the other six months, read it once. Potentially, you can read the Bible three to four times a year with that reading “plan”.

What do you think?

“However, the Lord’s faithfulness is never more visible than in the person and work of Christ. Before the Incarnation, the people of God had to rely on the promises of God in the holy Scriptures. They had the comfort of His Spirit, but nothing was more tangible than the person of Jesus. He is the ultimate demonstration of God’s gracious provision.”

-From a recently submitted paper.