Recently, one of my elderly Christian friends shocked me by admitting she’s never read the whole Bible. I feel sad for her because I can tell she’s not planning to make reading the Bible a goal. Each time I read the entire Bible, I become a better person, although never superior to others.
Now is the time
Whether you have never read the full Bible, have read it once or twice, or choose to read it every year, let’s resolve together for 2024 to begin reading the Bible from start to finish. Add this reading to the Christian books you already study and enjoy.
Sometimes Christian books rightly emphasize healing, forgiveness, and love over the consequences of sin. This concept came home to me when one of my daughters, strong in her faith and knowledgeable about the Bible, said she went to Barnes and Noble to find a new devotional book but could only find comfort food. She said she wanted something to kick her in the butt. I pointed out the extreme limitations of the selection at Barnes and Noble and suggested that she reread the Bible.
Let’s begin
Choose a Bible version you like. As you read, prepare to be convicted.
Reading the books in order can be challenging because some extensive sections portray the mercilessness and relentlessness of extended wars. Intervening passages declaring the Lord’s mercy seem few, though powerful.
No matter how many times you read the Bible, different passages will speak to you because you have changed and grown since your last reading of Scripture.
Disobedient? Be very, very afraid. The Lord makes clear that He becomes extraordinarily wrathful when any of His people worship anyone or anything but Him.
Obedient? You may suffer, even unjustly, but God does not abandon His people.
You may have a Christmas cookie now
Today, let’s celebrate the arrival of the Christ Child and know that God’s love is unwavering. Let’s take time during the entire Christmas season to reconnect with family and friends. Let’s savor the uplifting Christmas story we read each year in the Bible.
Then let’s make 2024 the best year ever as we reconnect in the deepest possible way with God, through His Word.
May you have a joyful, blessed Christmas and a meaningful and fulfilling 2024.
