How can we have a more intimate relationship with God? With any friendship we grow closer to someone by spending time with them. By getting to know who they are, what they like and dislike, their purposes and desires. So how can we find out all these things about our Heavenly Father? A daily time of solitude with God and His Word, the Bible, is one of the key components to getting to know God better.
Approaching daily Bible study is more than just reading a book. It is understanding that when you open his Word, you are seeing the very heart of God spoken for his people.
It’s also more than checking off a box in a list of “what good Christians do”. Open God’s word with the anticipation of a child opening a gift. Some days you’ll go away feeling you didn’t really learn anything new. But some days you’ll be surprised to find out how much He has to share with you.
Every year I choose a type of reading plan. Some years I read through either the Old or New Testament. Other years I get through all 66 books. This year I’m using the One Year Chronological Bible by Tyndale Publishers. There are quite a few One Year Bibles available in different versions and study options at your local Christian Bookstore or on Amazon. I would recommend any of these. In addition, most Bible apps have different types of bible reading plans to choose from. My favorite bible apps are listed here.
I admit that I have even used the old tried and true “open to a random page, point to a random chapter and read that chapter”. God can show us who He is through that technique too, but I don’t really recommend it for long-term bible study (she said smiling).
One of my favorite passages for developing a love for studying the Bible is Psalm 119. It is the longest psalm and is divided into 22 parts, based on the Hebrew alphabet. It speaks to the importance of treasuring God’s word. It may be a starting place for you if you are looking for somewhere to begin.
Your word I have treasured in my heart, That I may not sin against You.
Psalms 119:11 NASB
You are my hiding place and my shield; I wait for Your word.
Psalms 119:114 NLT
I rejoice in your word like one who discovers a great treasure.
Psalms 119:162 NLT
Whatever method you choose to read/study God’s Word this year, I encourage you to be consistent. I believe this is one of the best ways to get to know who God is and what His will is for you
Your words were found and I ate them, And Your words became a joy to me and the delight of my heart; For I have been called by Your name, L ord God of armies. Jeremiah 15:16
