Category Archives: Read with Me
Just Do It!: Reading Your Bible (Part 2)
Welcome back! Gretchen has returned, as promised, to share some of her tips in getting through your Bible cover to cover without giving up.
Yesterday, I gave you a little background on how I got started reading my Bible cover-to-cover. Today, I promised to share some tips that helped me along the way.
- I say a quick prayer right before I begin reading. It goes something like, “God, speak to me through your word today. Help me glorify you, even if I don’t understand everything you say. Thank you for your incredible word.”
- I use the New Living Translation Study Bible. It’s a big ol’ brick, but I love it. Actually, I picked it out and my husband gave it to me for Christmas before I started my read-through. I recommend this translation because of its readability. The NIV is also a great translation, in my humble opinion. Find one which suits you, and which you will read.
- I told myself that I was reading to glean … not for any quiz or even for any sizable bit of comprehension.
- Even reading to simply immerse myself in the word was so much richer an experience with the study notes in my Bible. I highly recommend a Bible with study notes. If you don’t have one, perhaps a Bible dictionary, concordance, or other study helps would be a smart purchase. I didn’t want to read through with huge, burning questions left unanswered. Ninety percent of my questions were answered in the study notes. Five percent I asked my pastor (who was always so generous in helping me), and the remaining five percent were left to “his ways are not my ways…I don’t have to understand all of it to believe or obey”.
- I used Piper’s Discipleship Journal Bible Reading Plan for my first 2 read-throughs (as Tanya advised), because I love its structure and built-in grace days. I also love the fact that this program gives you two Old Testament readings and two New Testament readings each day. Not only is the variety nice if you’re not in your favorite chapter here or there, but it highlights that the OT and NT are truly ONE story. This year, simply to change it up for myself, I’m doing a chronological read-through, available on the YouVersion Bible app. I do the checklist on my phone, and can even read the bible that way, but I prefer using my paper version to be able to underline/take notes on passages, as I feel so inclined. I also date each passage, so I can see in years to come when I’ve read it. I will say, I’m itching to get to the NT, but having fun this way, too.
- I forgave myself when I messed up, and read ahead when I could. Life happens.
- When I lacked motivation, I spurred myself on by the questions my pastor had asked all those years ago: If I’m a Christian, why don’t I read my Bible? Why do I believe what I believe? If someone asked me what it meant to be a follower of Jesus, what would I tell them?
Praise God that you might even be thinking of completing this challenge! BTW, if you start with Piper’s, and many others, you DON’T HAVE TO START IN JANUARY. Ahem. I would love to hear from you if you have any questions or suggestions in helping others be obedient in knowing what our Father wants us to know and growing in His abundant grace.
Blessings!
Just Do It: Reading Your Bible (Part 1)
We started the Read with Me Challenge over two years ago. I met Gretchen (not in real life … yet!) before that, but got to know her much better through our joint adventure in Bible reading. Recently I asked her to share her testimony. Whether you’re doing Read with Me this year or not, I’m sure you’ll be encouraged by what she has to share with us today AND tomorrow!
A year or so ago, sweet Tanya encouraged us all to read our Bibles, cover to cover, in her “Read with Me” series. She suggested a John Piper template that dipped into 4 areas of the Bible each day. Perhaps even more attractive to me (a serial Bible-reading-starter), the program was based on a 5-day, rather than a 7-day week. Ah…grace was built into this particular program. Yay. Gotta love grace. The gentle accountability and cameraderie of other readers was also appealing. So…I took the leap.
Guess what?! I actually finished within a year. However, the best part isn’t that I did anything. The best part? In this process of submission and obedience, God created a thirst for His Word in me which I’d never had before. To this day, I’m sort of “addicted” to His Word. I’m on my third read-through, and each time, I go deeper and learn something new. Woot! Read the rest of this entry
You don’t have time to read the Bible.
Don’t have time to read your Bible? Yeah, me neither … ALL IN ONE SITTING! But it’s important. Like, crazy life-changing important. That’s why we MAKE time to read it.
I know it’s intimidating and we all have excuses. Think about it. How books have you read that exceed 1000 pages? Personally, I can’t think of a single one. In fact, this is the very reason I’ve yet to finish Bonhoeffer’s biography. I simply can’t wrap my mind around the task. I can, however, think of several series that I’ve complete which, if all the pages are totaled, well surpass that size.
Let’s see … there were the Baxter books (beginning with the Redemption Series) by Karen Kingsbury. Each book was around 275 pages; multiply that times 15 books … yup. I could have read the Bible front to back THREE times in the hours I spent immersing myself in that family’s melodrama. Then, of course, I read Alex Haley’s Roots at least four times. That plus the two sequels … Yup. There’s another three or four times. The Mark of Lion series by Francine Rivers. Those were amazing books! Read each of them at least four times.
Maybe we just need to break this huge task into more manageable pieces. Don’t look at it like War and Peace. It’s simply 66 little books, many of which can be completed in just a few minutes. For example, while waiting for the bus. Or waiting for the next step while cooking dinner. Or waiting for your doctor appointment. Or waiting for the kids to finish their piano lessons. We do a lot of waiting, don’t we?
I wonder, if we picked up the Bible instead of Angry Birds or that silly waiting room magazine, how far we would get this year?
Your turn: When and where do you like to read the Bible?
Like this:
Two Weeks In
This morning I received an email that claimed to offer “You won’t find this information any place else!” What were they toting? Great ways to help you break those “pesky” New Years Resolutions. “It’s never been easier!”
Lose weight? Here are some coupons for your favorite high-cal restaurants!
Spend more time with family? Have a discount to your local spa for some me-time!
Travel more? Check out these great things to do right in your home town!!
Kinda creative marketing, actually.
So, how are you doing with those new goals? More specifically, how are you doing with your Bible reading?
On Monday I posted some great tips for choosing the right Bible reading plan and where to find them. If you missed it and are still deciding what to do, go back and check it out.
At only two weeks in, it’s not too late to get started. For that matter, you can start in July! It doesn’t matter when, how or where you start reading the Bible, JUST DO IT.
As for me, I’m on Day 15 which, according to the calendar puts me ahead, but according to when I started it, I’m a day behind. It’s nice to have a little grace built in.
YOUR TURN: Which reading plan have you chosen? How are you doing with it?
Finding the Right Bible Reading Plan
My high school youth group used the Word of Life program. (Some of you may be familiar with it, the associated WOL Bible Institute or the summer camp in Schroon Lake, NY.) The program employs a wonderful format called DIA — Discipleship In Action. It encourages one-on-one work between leaders and teens, but it also utilizes a system to establish daily “quiet times” or devotions. It’s a great habit-builder … that is, until you graduate from the program.
You see, the program uses (or at least it did twenty years ago when I was teenager) workbooks with specific readings, questions, applications and prayer prompts. I became quite dependant on those workbooks and felt pretty lost when I no longer had them. I knew how to follow the book, but I hadn’t a clue how to study the Bible on my own.
Even in Bible college I had specific assignments and directions to follow for my “personal” pursuit of God. The problem comes when all these guidelines disappear. How do grown-ups maintain consistent times with God? Read the rest of this entry
Welcome to 2012!
Happy New Year to you and yours! Thus dawns the season of dreaming big and striving to be better.
As I look into 2012, the usual suspects are there: more exercise, healthier diet, proper priorities … you know, the ones always made and just as consistently broken. We all know January is hopeful with its new beginning (fresh, with no mistakes in it), but we also know that February, unfortunately, will find most of our newly-made resolutions forgotten or abandoned.
It doesn’t make sense. Resolutions, by the very definition of the word, cannot be broken. The are firm, like iron, yet we claim them so flippantly. I much prefer the word “goal.” It’s a little softer, with a bit more forgiveness built in. Of course, that could mean I make my goals with the intention of never fully keeping them. I may have to ponder that a bit more.
In the meantime, I will set my annual goals, but I am also choosing to focus more on the continuation of new habits: consistent Bible reading, regular discipline with my writing, jealously defending family time.
For the past two years I’ve hosted the Read with Me Challenge. Several of you have shared your testimonies about how this initiative has helped you or changed your perspectives on some things. It’s amazing what God can do when we intentionally seek Him through His Word. Let’s keep it up!
This challenge started with a small committed group reading the same passages each day of the year (or at least attempting to). The goal was to read through the entire Bible in one year (or two). This year the goal is simply to keep reading. It doesn’t matter which reading plan you use or how quickly you read … as long as you read. I will continue to post on Fridays about what I’m reading or some tips on consistent prayer and Bible time. If you have some thoughts to share, you’re welcome to guest post! Just let me know.
If you need help finding a plan or staying abreast of the plan you’ve chosen, check out YouVersion.com. This is an app available on android/iphone/pod/pad, PC, and Kindle fire. Not only does it offer reading plans, it also lets you make bookmarks and notes (including highlights in various colors), and it will sync across all of the aforementioned devices. As you read through each day, you can check off the readings (or it will check it off for you in some cases). It also provides the ability to download certain versions like the ESV/NASV to you device for offline reading.
This app is FREE as are some of the downloadable Bible versions.
Judges: Chapters 1-3
This post is the third of a series studying the biblical book of Judges. If you’re just joining us, you may want to go back to the beginning. Follow these links to the first and second posts.
The book of Judges opens with one major question: Who will be our leader?
Caleb, Acsah & Othniel
- Judges 1:12—15
- Joshua 15:13—19
As the tribes divide to conquer their different portions of land, the account of Judah’s tribe offers a little sidebar in which Caleb promises his daughter, Acsah, as a bride to anyone who helps him conquer his land. The author of our study frequently reminds us to view Scripture in accurate context and not merely through our own cultural lenses. In light of the culture, this really wasn’t a terrible thing.
Caleb’s offer presents Acsah as a prize, both to be GIVEN and to be WON. Othniel won proving himself to be a worthy husband, a leader devoted to the Lord. He later became a judge and a rescuer of God’s people. (Judges 3:9—11) Sounds like a pretty good husband to me!
Some in our group last night felt that Scripture revealed a good relationship between this father-daughter duo. Others found Acsah to be manipulative and a bit spoiled. While we may not be able to precisely identify Acsah’s character, we know for sure that the men in her life loved the Lord and trusted in Him.
A Pattern of Disobedience
- Judges 1:19—34
The Tribes of Israel were instructed to eliminate the ungodly people living in the region. This passage repeatedly illustrates their consistent disobedience. Look for these two phrases throughout Judges Chapter 1: “did not conquer” and “lived among them.”
There is one point I want to make about the “lived among them” statement. God specifically ordered the Israelites to eliminate all the tribes of Canaan because of their false Gods. It was not a matter of heartless genocide, but rather a measure of protection for the Israelites.
Intermarrying and co-habitation are not sins UNLESS they worship false gods. Consider Rahab (Joshua 2:1—21, 6:22—25), Zipporah (Exodus 2:16—22), and the many Egyptians who joined the Israelites after the plagues against Pharaoh (Exodus 12:38). Even Caleb was descended from a family outside of Israel. All of these are examples of foreigners who left their gods to follow the one, true and living God.
The Mosaic Law allows for the care of foreigners and aliens. God even instructed them to build “cities of refuge” for outsiders, refugees and contrite criminals.
The indication here in Judges that these people were “living among them” does not symbolize hospitality, but rather spiritual compromise. (Judges 3: 5—6; Joshua 24:15) Spiritual compromise is always a sin.
- In what way are we “living among them” with a compromised faith?
Creating a Legacy of Faith
- Judges 2:6—10, 2:16—3:4
- Deuteronomy 4:9
- 1 Corinthians 11:1
- Ephesians 5:1
Joshua, Caleb and the judges serves as leaders and examples. They provided visible, tangible models for the Israelites to imitate. After 400 years of being slaves, of having their every move dictated to them, the Israelites were weak in their faith and immature in their devotion to God. They needed leaders – thus the institution of judges – but, sadly, when those leaders died, so did the faith of their people.
- How can we pass on a sustainable faith to the next generation?
The Dangers of Drifting
- Judges 3:7
- Hebrews 2:1
“One of the greatest dangers of the Christian life is
losing interest in what is familiar.”
Drifting is not something that happens instantaneously. It is a gradual neglect, a slow moving away from what once impassioned us. It is forgetting what once left you awe-struck.
- Think of a time when you drifted from your faith. Did anything bring you there?
- Why signs can you watch for that might indicate you are drifting?
- Drifting happens by simply doing nothing. What are some specific things you can do to keep your “first love” fresh? What are ways to renew a cooled passion?
Extreme Obedience
- Judges 3:15—31
- Hebrews 2:3
“Help me to love people fiercely and to hate evil courageously.”
An incredible sacrifice deserves an incredible response. Ehud and Shamgar offer concise, yet precise examples of extreme obedience.
Ehud’s story initially seems … well, juvenile and a bit gross and graphic. But it’s so cool! He was just one man, and yet he had the faith and the courage to take on the oppressive king then rally his people toward freedom. Sure, there were some details of fat oozing over the embedded sword and confused servants thinking the dying man is really just having bowel issues, but the point of the story is radical. Ehud showed obedience and extreme faith in our God.
Poor Shamgar only gets one verse, but it’s a good one. Though years after most of the other Israelites had forgotten, Shamgar remembered God’s instructions and promises. Not only did he remember, he acted upon them until his obedience was complete.
- Think of a time when you have shown extreme obedience. What were the results?
- How can you exhibit extreme obedience in this time of your life?
In our discussion last night we also talked about the value of extreme obedience. Is there ever a time when it’s not worth it?
Let’s discuss!
Use the comments section to talk about any of the questions posted here. Share any other observations you’ve had from the first three chapters of Judges.
NEXT TIME: This post is already quite long, so I’ll post tomorrow some more thoughts on these characters, including some biblical genealogy and parallel lives. I also have some bonus reading suggestions for bibliophiles like myself. 
In two weeks we’ll dive into chapters 4 and 5.
J with the J: Intro
I wish I were a rapper. Well, not really, but a title like that makes me wish I had at least some rhythmic skills to speak of. I don’t. I can’t even clap and sing at the same time. My daughter — God bless her! — has inherited my distinct “whiteness” and yet, thanks to The Electric Company, is convinced she has a career as a beat-boxer. Oh, Shock, you have no idea what you’ve inspired.
And with that lovely and not-at-all relevant segue, let’s talk about Judges!
(This post is part of a series. Those not privy may want to see where it started. Click here.)
Last week I started a study on the book of Judges. Our first meeting consisted mostly of logistics: handing out workbooks, discussing the schedule, introducing one another and the topic. The real meat and potatoes will start at our next gathering which will be on September 28th. (We’ll have the online discussion on the 29th.)
First things first: What is our purpose? Why do this?
Sounds like a simple question, right? Well, yes, until you acknowledge how many questions are hidden within those two little ones. Let’s take a closer look. Read the rest of this entry
Java with the Judges
Do you want to do a Bible study with me? C’mon. Say “yes.” I know you want to.
This blog has hosted series about specific Biblical characters (Bathsheba, for one) or hot topics (like prayer). We also did the two-year Read with Me Challenge which encouraged accountability with daily devotions and Scripture reading goals. But we’ve never done an actual, interactive Bible study. I think it’s time.
Last night I kicked off a new study. A small group of women will be gathering at my home twice a month to dive into Scripture, specifically the book of Judges. However, a number of people can’t make it. They live too far away; the night doesn’t work with their schedule; there are lots of reasons. So we’re expanding the group with an online extension, and we would love to have you join us.
Here’s how this will work.
- We all get the same workbook. (More on that in a minute.)
- We do the homework individually.
- The in-house group will meet and discuss twice a month.
- I will post here the morning after each meet. For copyright reasons I cannot divulge too much from the actual workbook study, so my posts will consist of extra material I add to the study and highlights from the group discussion the night before.
- Everyone (in-house and online) can then engage in a lively discussion via the comments section.
Sound good?
If you’re in, get yourself a copy of Sandra Glahn’s Java with the Judges. Your local Christian bookstore should have it. If they can’t get it for you, you can purchase it online at Amazon.com or Christianbook.com.
The study is designed with daily readings throughout the week and encourages once a week group meetings. We’re stretching it out a bit. You’ll have two weeks to do one week’s worth of “homework.” This makes it very, very do-able, even for those of us with chaotic, overbooked schedules.
Our in-house group will meet the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month. Our online discussions will be the second and fourth Thursdays of each month. With six “weeks” of study, we’ll be done before Christmas.
I’ll post some more about last night’s meeting soon. In the meantime, please allow the Fabulous Bentley Brothers to introduce you to our Bible book of choice.
How to be Outstanding
“Dear brothers and sisters, be firm. Do not be moved! Always be outstanding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.
… to the extent that God has blessed you.
… because a door of great opportunity stands wide open for me, but there are many opponents.
Stay alert, stand firm in the faith show courage, be strong. Everything you do should be done in love.”
Last week I finished reading 1 Corinthians. The quotes above come from 15:58, 16:2, 9, 13-14, all quoted in the NET.
Before I go any further, please understand that I’ve not quoted the verses in their entirety, not even entirely in context. (Click here to read the full chapters.) In order to fully study and understand Scripture, we MUST read it in context, both literary and cultural.
Sometimes, though, God seems to highlight sections of Scripture. He makes them brighter for individuals for specific reasons. The parts I quoted above are the portions that jumped off the page at me last week.
Zach’s care (since his accident) has completely consumed me. I’m not complaining. Please understand that. But I have been overwhelmed, overwhelmed to the point that I sometimes just go through the motions knowing that I have so much to do and I don’t keep moving I won’t get it all done. Believing — or perhaps fearing — that if I take time to process our situation or my feelings about it or the toll it is taking on us, I’ll miss something. The balls I’ve so carefully arranged into moving suspension will tumble to the ground. Read the rest of this entry
