How to Not Get Stuck On Your New Bible Reading Plan

Here’s an easy Bible reading plan for you—plan on reading your Bible. Oh, how I wish it were that simple!

If you are struggling to read your Bible, you’re not alone. According to a recent survey in Life Way only 41% of Protestant churchgoers don’t read the Bible regularly.

I don’t know about your life, but my life’s pretty hectic. Since I have a special needs son that requires a lot of my time. On most days I’m hunched over the computer trying to write in-between taking care of my family and being eyed by my yellow-eyed wolf dog. But I learned on the days I blew off my Bible reading plan, my day went haywire, and that’s the reason while I’ve included tips on how to fit reading the Bible into your life.

“The Bible is meant to be bread for daily use, not cake for special occasions.” Anonymous.

Free Bible reading plan that includes a fun coloring page tracker.

Which Translation?

For success in your Bible reading plan, find a readable  translation that you like. I think the New Living Translation is a wonderful, engaging translation. If you tried reading through the Bible but couldn’t finish, consider The Message Bible, since it reads more like a book. Just remember is its paraphrase, not a word-for-word translation but it’s a good alternative.

Or if you select the New King James Version, switch it up when you reach Leviticus or Job, turn to an easier version.

While selecting a Bible choose one that has a good commentary. Commentaries will increase your level of understanding and therefore help you stick to your Bible reading plan.

“The primary purpose of reading the Bible is not to know the Bible but to know God.” James Merritt.

On-Line Bible

Sometimes I read my Bible on my phone before I even get out of bed. Of course, I prefer my printed Bible to the phone App but the pitfall is I’m tempted to check my email then stick with my reading plan. But some days that’s the only way I can sneak my Bible in before my family sees me and requires my attention.

“The Holy Scriptures are our letters from home.” -Augustine of Hippo

Bible Reading Plan

Following a daily plan is a set you up for your success. Here is my free Bible reading plan that includes a fun coloring page tracker. This Bible reading plan consists of reading portions from both the Old and New Testaments in chronological order. I like this method because it gives the reader a balance of grace and law.

Related: Find out how reading the Bible effects your brain.

 Bookmark Method

If an organized checklist seems too rigid for your Bible reading plan, then try the simple bookmark method where you go at your own pace. Divide the Bible into three sections: Old Testament, Psalms/Proverbs, and New Testament. Place a bookmark in each of sections.

Fifteen minutes a day, five times a week, read each of the three sections for at least five minutes, keeping your place with the bookmarks. In twelve to fourteen months, you will have completed the entire Bible! This is a no pressure Bible reading plan going at your own pace without having the stress of checking boxes.

“The Bible is the only book whose author is always present when one reads it.” Anonymous

Audio Bible Reading Plan

If you fall behind, the audio bible is a great way to catch up. Of course, this works best if you are following a chronological plan.

“So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Romans 10:17

Join Forces

Engage in your Bible reading plan with your spouse, children, or friend. It always helps when you have support, motivation, and accountability.

Going Deeper Every Day in Your Bible Reading Plan

Each day select one verse that seems to stand out during your Bible reading. Use this special verse to meditate throughout your day.

“A single line in the Bible has consoled me more than all the books I ever read besides.” Immanuel Kant

Create a Godly Atmosphere

Having a designated comfortable place will encourage you to stick to your Bible reading plan.

• Set up a cozy reading area
• Add Soft blanket and pillows
• Framed Bible Verses on Wall/Table
• Beautiful Bookmarks
• Use a special pen
• Buy a lovely Journal
• Highlighters to mark up your Bible
• Write Verses on Fun Sticky Notes
• Light scented candles
• Use peppermint oils to keep alert

Schedule Your Bible Reading Plan

Make your time special in the word, in fact set up an appointed time with God, on your calendar, whether phone or paper. Make your entry special, for instance, write something like this in your time slot, valuable time with my Father God, meeting with my friend Jesus or today’s advice from the Holy Spirit.

Prayer

Lord in Jesus name, your word is a light to my feet and help me every day to succeed in my Bible Reading Plan. Show me Lord in Your Word what I need for today. And Thanks for transforming me every day to  carry more of Jesus. And give me the willpower to push forward and stick to my Bible Reading Plan.

Ultimately, the goal of personal Bible study is a transformed life and a deep and abiding relationship with Jesus Christ.” Kay Arthur

I hope these tips help you stick to your Bible reading plan, because if you do you will be with only 11% of Americans that have actually finished reading their entire Bible!

If you would like to learn additional ways to make the most out of your Bible time check out all the details with my digital printable designed for you to The Spend Time With God Set.