Bible Reading Survival Guide

Started reading through the Bible and already finding yourself lost in the wilderness? If so, take a deep breath and consider carefully these five simple but critical Bible reading survival skills.

1. Don’t panic. Whether you’re lost in the woods or lost in the Bible, it is critical that you keep a clear head. Scripture assures that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but rather a sound mind. Use it.
(2 Timothy 1:7)

2. Don’t punt. If you’re like most people, it’s tempting to just punt the ball and give up the resolve for
another time. Don’t do it. Pick up from where you are at and don’t obsess over the lost yardage.

3. Use kindling. In order to survive in the wilderness you’ll need a fire. Bible readers often undertake huge books like Genesis or Exodus early in their reading—great books, but trying to start a fire with them is like trying to light a two-foot thick oak. It’s great once it’s burning, but getting it started is another story altogether. For smaller books to help kindle a fire, check out Ruth, Esther, Jonah, Philippians, Colossians, or First John.

4. Signal for help. Let a trusted friend or mentor know that you are struggling. Someone who knows their way in the Word will be able to show you the path and be an encourager or, better yet, a companion as you read.

5. Ask God to light the fire. At the end of the day, the fire of passion for God’s Word comes from God Himself. We know He answers prayers asked in accordance with His will and this is a prayer that aligns with His purposes.

Remember no matter how dry the kindling or how inspiring the encouragement, God alone can light the fire for His Word in your life. We cooperate, but He strikes the match. Ask Him to set your heart ablaze with a passion for His Word today!