The Field Guide to the Bible Reading PlanShembull

I Have Read the Bible, Now What?

Reading the Bible is a significant first step in exploring and understanding. But what do I do next? Keep reading, there is so much more to discover. A first read of the Bible just gives you an overview of the whole story. Reading again and again mines up new revelations on what God is saying. A great bible teacher Chuck Missler said “the Bible is 66 books by 40 authors, and yet we now discover it’s an integrated message system from outside our time domain”. So to discover more we need to keep reading this amazing book.

So:

1. Find a time and place to read that suits you. Make sure it is a quiet place with no distractions. Make it a habit to go to this place and read.
2. Reflect on what you’ve read. Take some time to reflect on what you’ve read. Consider how the messages and themes apply to your life.
3. Join a study group. Engaging with others who have also read the Bible can provide new insights and perspectives. Look for a local church or group and join a study group. If your church doesn’t have one get a few people together and start one up.
4. Continue learning. The Bible is a complex and multifaceted book. There is a large number of resources available – books or online material that will help with your learning journey.
5. Pray. Prayer can deepen your spiritual connection and help you integrate the teachings of the Bible into your life.
6. Apply the teachings. The Bible offers guidance on how to live a fulfilling life. Think about ways you can apply its teachings in your daily life.

So, you can read it alone, read it with friends, read it aloud, or listen to it (download the Youversion app, the Bible can be read to you).

Start writing what you are reading, making notes on what you have learnt and especially write down the questions that come up.

Action:

Pick a book to read once you have finished this reading plan. Don’t use the toss-a-coin method. Ask God which of his books he would like you to read. He will prompt you with a book just for you.

After this plan dig into it and read it several times over and over again. Eat it and see how sweet it is.