Reading the Bible- A Helpful Habit

I know we read the Bible at Mass every Sunday and for some of us at daily Mass, but with this practice are we really saturating ourselves in the word of God like the Bible suggests? In Joshua 1:8, it says, “keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful (NIV (normally I read from NABRE though)).”

By meditating on the word of God, you can really make it a part of you. The word of God is not only informative, but it’s transformative. I can attest to this in my own life. This year, I have decided to read through the Bible in a year. It has been a wonderful experience so far. There are daily readings and then there is a devotional to help break down the readings. I am going through the Bible with other women of faith and there is an opportunity to discuss what God is saying to us on a daily basis. I have really seen the fruits of focusing on the truth and love that is found in the Bible. It’s helped me grow in a deeper relationship with God and gain a better understanding of who He truly is and how I can be a better reflection of His son. I can honestly say that I am in awe of the Word of God and I have also found a great amount of joy in reading through the Bible. 

In Ephesians 6, we are reminded to put on the armor of God so that we can stand firm against the tactics of the devil. It also tells us to take hold of the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God. I have felt more equipped to fight through life’s challenges by reading God’s word. It’s hard to explain, but my hope and prayer is that you can experience it too. Start small and find a devotional that speaks to you. There are several free ones through the Bible app or online. You can search what you are looking for. There are devotionals for every circumstance (depression, anxiety, waiting, cancer, trust, marriage, etc.). 

2 Timothy 3:16-17 says, “All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for refutation, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that one who belongs to God may be competent, equipped for every good work (NABRE).” The word of God can be seen as a training for righteousness. It can be used to guide us in every circumstance. I have been able to connect with some of the characters in the Bible and it’s been truly amazing. The trials that were placed on certain people in the Bible can connect with the trials in our lives today. The Bible is consistently relevant. Seeing the faith of certain individuals in scripture is truly inspiring and the stories give me a sense of hope. I am looking forward to going even deeper.

I’d encourage others to pray through scripture and ask God what He is trying to say to you. We are constantly praying and asking God for things, but we also need to learn to listen to Him. “Thus faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17 NABRE). Take some time today to read scripture and listen to what God is saying to you. I promise that you will be blessed by getting into this eternally significant habit.