As Christians, we want to learn more about our faith and grow closer to God. Sometimes, it can be difficult to find the motivation or time for Bible reading on top of everything else that has to get done in a day. That’s why I’m here today to help you with how you can read the Bible without feeling overwhelmed! Without further ado, here are 10 tips for Christian readings!
1. Make an intention statement
Before you even pick up your Bible, make a statement like: “I want to read my bible for at least 20 minutes today.” Or “I will read the Gospel of John this week.” This is a great way to keep yourself accountable and not lose momentum. Making an intention statement is also a great way to remind yourself why you are reading the Bible in the first place.
This may probably be the best starting line out of all the tips for Christian readings.
2. Read slowly
The Bible is not a book to be rushed through. Make sure you take enough time out of your day, even if it’s just for five minutes, to sit down and read. Don’t try to beat around the bush or skip chapters either! Make sure you take your time reading each verse and journal any thoughts that come to mind.
This will help you better understand what God is trying to say through his words and also provide you with a great opportunity for personal reflection.
3. Focus on one chapter at a time
When I first started reading the Bible, my goal was to read a whole chapter every day. This led me to try to speed through multiple chapters at a time, which was only making me feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of information I had to take in.
One chapter is already too much to handle in a day! With that being said, I would suggest you start with one chapter. If your schedule allows for it, try to go for two chapters. But no matter what, make sure you choose one chapter at a time and stick to it!
You can also read more than one chapter a day but make sure you understand and reflect on what you read.
Do not move to the next chapter until you finish reflecting on the previous one.
This is a great way to avoid feeling overwhelmed and helps you stay focused on the task at hand.
4. Set aside designated reading times each week
If you are someone who struggles with finding the time to read, try setting aside specific times each week when you can sit down and focus on your Bible reading. This can be on the weekends, during your lunch break, or before bedtime.
The important thing is that you make sure these times are blocked off in your calendar and that you stick to them!
This will allow you to better pace yourself while reading and avoid feeling rushed.
5. Find your favorite translation online
I know, I know… buying a whole Bible just to read it is too expensive! But thankfully there are so many websites where you can find different translations of the Bible for free!
I would recommend reading different translations to get a better understanding of what certain verses mean and also to find your favorite translation. This way, when you do buy a Bible, you’ll know exactly which one to choose!
I personally like the New Living Translation because of its ease to read and understanding.
6. Memorize verses that speak into your life right now
This is my favorite tip of all because it’s so powerful! When you are struggling with understanding a certain topic or verse, try memorizing it. This way, whenever you are feeling down or need a quick pick-me-up, you can turn to these verses.
Memorizing passages from the Bible is not as hard as it seems, and there are plenty of resources to help you get started. I would recommend finding a community or group to help you along the way. This makes it easier and more fun!
It’s also a great idea to start with short verses, like Psalm 23 or Philippians. Once you have mastered those, move on to longer verses!
7. Use scripture as daily mantras in prayer or meditation sessions
Connect with God on a deeper level. Whenever you have some free time, try sitting down in silence and repeating a few verses to God. This could be in the morning, during your lunch break, or before bed.
The key is to really focus on what you are saying and allow the Holy Spirit to work in your heart.
This is a great way to start building a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.”
– Psalm 23:23-24 NIV
“In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
– Proverbs chapter three, verse six NIV
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.”
– Proverbs chapter three, verses five and six NIV
These are just a few examples, but there are countless verses that you can use in this way!
8. Journal your thoughts and reflections after you finish reading
The eighth of the tips for Christian readings is to make time for reflection. Try writing down your thoughts while reading or afterward, when everything has sunk in more.
This is also a great way to track your progress while reading the Bible. It can be really encouraging to look back and see how far you have come!
9 . Use a Bible reading plan to stay on track
You can find many different plans online, or you could also start one yourself. This way, you have a specific plan to follow and you won’t get lost along the way.
I would recommend choosing a plan that fits your schedule and that you will be able to stick to. There are plans for every type of person!
10 . Pray before you start reading
This is a great way to start your Bible reading time. Praying before you read allows you to set aside some time for God and focus on what you are about to read.
It also helps to connect with Him on a deeper level and allows the Holy Spirit to work in your heart while reading.
I hope these tips for Christian readings will help you in your Bible reading journey! As always, if you have any questions or need some encouragement, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Check out some of our other posts!
- 11 Tips For Christians in Their Own Words
- Teach Your Kids About Jesus: 5 Effective Ways
- Letting God Down: Why You Need to Give Yourself a Break
