Habit Reboot: An 8-Day Devotional by Darryl DashSample

Core Habit #1: Tips on Engaging the Bible

Here are some more tips on building a habit of engaging the Bible.

1. Believe it’s worth it. When you get to the hard parts, remember that they are there for a reason. The Bible says, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work” (2 Tim. 3:16–17). Everything in Scripture is good, so lean in.
2. Follow a plan. Find a plan that works for you. Buy a Bible that includes a reading plan, or search for “Bible reading plan” online.
3. Use good tools. A Bible with study notes is a great help. So are the explainer videos at BibleProject.com. A good Bible companion or commentary can also come in handy.
4. Read or listen with others if possible. Find a reading partner for accountability, encouragement, and discussion.
5. Pray. Ask for God’s help as you read or listen. David Mathis calls this the X factor in Bible reading: “No matter how thin your training, no matter how spotty your routine, the Helper stands ready. Take up the text in confidence that God is primed to bless your being with his very breath.”
6. Get the big picture. It’s okay if you don’t understand every detail. Get a broad understanding of the big picture.
7. Expect to learn something.
8. Apply it to your life. As you read or listen, look for a thought, insight, or action to take into your life. Puritan preacher Thomas Watson said, “Take every word as spoken to your- selves. When the word thunders against sin, think thus: ‘God means my sins;’ when it presseth any duty, ‘God intends me in this.’ Many put off Scripture from themselves as if it only concerned those who lived in the time when it was written; but if you intend to profit by the word, bring it home to your- selves: a medicine will do no good, unless it be applied.”

Get started today! Find a plan that fits your life, and start reading using the guidelines and tips I’ve given you. Keep going, even when you fail or when it gets hard. Regular Bible reading really does make a difference.