GET STARTED!
Here are a few things to consider as you begin (or continue) your Bible-reading journey. Consistency matters more than length. Even a few minutes a day, practiced regularly, can lead to lasting spiritual growth.
Pick a Bible - At The Bridge, we typically teach from the New Living Translation (NLT). Many people also enjoy studying the Bible using the English Standard Version (ESV). Most study Bibles include helpful introductions to each book, along with commentary notes to give context and insight. One resource we recommend is the Life Application Study Bible.
As you develop the habit of Bible reading, it’s helpful to be intentional. Start by deciding:
Pick a time: Choose a consistent time of day that works best for you.
Pick a place: Find a spot where you can focus and minimize distractions.
Pick what you will read: Use a reading plan or select a specific book of the Bible to work through.
Here are three Bible reading plans that we recommend though the YouVersion Bible app:
1. New Believer’s Bible Reading Plan (28 day plan)
2. The Bible Recap With Tara-Leigh Cobble (1 year plan)
3. The Bible Project (1 year plan)
As you develop the habit of Bible reading, it’s helpful to be intentional. Start by deciding:
Pick a time: Choose a consistent time of day that works best for you.
Pick a place: Find a spot where you can focus and minimize distractions.
Pick what you will read: Use a reading plan or select a specific book of the Bible to work through.
Here are three Bible reading plans that we recommend though the YouVersion Bible app:
1. New Believer’s Bible Reading Plan (28 day plan)
2. The Bible Recap With Tara-Leigh Cobble (1 year plan)
3. The Bible Project (1 year plan)
S.O.A.P.
SOAP, is an acronym that stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. Through SOAP, you will learn more about who God is, His love for you, and His heart for the world. By reading the Bible daily, our hope is that you will discover next steps, keep on the right path and be inspired as you follow Jesus.
SCRIPTURE
Take your time reading each chapter and allow God to speak to you. Look for a verse that particularly spoke to you and write it in your journal.
OBSERVATION
What do you think God is saying to you in this scripture? Ask the Holy Spirit to teach you and reveal Jesus to you. Paraphrase and write this scripture down in your own words in your journal.
APPLICATION
Personalize what you have read, by asking yourself how it applies to your life right now. Write how this scripture can apply to you today.
PRAYER
This can be as simple as asking God to help you use this scripture, or it may be a greater insight on what He may be revealing to you. Remember, prayer is a two-way conversation, so be sure to listen to what God has to say and journal about it.