It is time again to remind ourselves of the importance of regular Bible reading. Again I recommend the use of a schedule to keep yourself on track. We have schedules available for all those who wish to have one.
The schedule that we distribute organizes your Bible reading to include a section of Old Testament history every day, and a section of poetry and the New Testament Monday through Friday.
Just yesterday I had a good example of the need of disciplined and balanced Bible study. A young man contacted me by phone and as I talked with him, I found him to be acquainted with the Bible, but confused to no end. He took what seemed to be his favorite sections of Scripture to defend a lopsided and destructive approach to life. He may well have been sincere, however very confused.
The benefit of a well-rounded Bible study is that you can see the instructions of the Scripture "fleshed out" in the lives of godly people. It is unfortunately easy, due to our own natures, to twist and distort the instructions of the Bible. However, when you include the living, recorded history of God's people and interpret the instructions of the Scripture in that light, you have a far more accurate understanding of His word.
Allow me to share just one example:
Matthew 6:33
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
It would be tempting to interpret this verse to defend a very lazy and careless approach to life. However, it we understand it in the light of the experience of Jacob's son, Joseph, we find a very different conclusion. You see then, that the instruction of Scripture needs to be understood in the history of God's people. It is a simple reality but one that often eludes us.
Get the Bible reading habit,
And daily keep right at it,
'Til you read your Bible through,
Clear through!
