The God of the Bible – Father, Son & Holy Spirit – loves to communicate with his creation. Hebrews 1 reminds us of this: “In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe.” Hebrews 1:1-2.
God actively seeks to speak into our lives. One significant way that God speaks to us is through his Word, the Bible. Spending time in the Word helps to deepen our understanding of God’s heart, desire and plan for each of us. The apostle John also refers to Jesus as “the Word,” another reminder that God desperately longs to communicate with us.
Studying the Word can take many forms. You may prefer the weight of a Bible in your hands, or you may find a Bible app or audio recording more accessible. Your time in the Word may be a time of quiet and solitude, or it may be something you share with your family or small group. You may follow a reading plan, access a study guide, take notes in the margins or use a journal. Or none of these things. Lean into the way that God has uniquely created you, and make your time in the Word a personal experience.
Below you will find two possible Bible reading methods. These methods are by no means an exhaustive list of the many ways to read and study the Bible. However, we find them to be a helpful starting point. As you take time to turn to God’s Word, however that may look for you, may it refresh His promises to you, and open the door to hearing and experiencing His voice in new ways.