Bible Reading in 2014

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For the first time ever, 2014 was the year I actually read through the entire Bible. I had started down this road before many times in the past; if I was reading in chronological order by the time I got to Numbers I was done. I tried some reading plans but couldn't stick to them.

So what finally made the difference in 2014? Technology, determination and discipline. First I got an iPhone and one of the first apps I downloaded was the youVersion Bible app. Then I got an android for my birthday last year. As I played around with both of these tools, in particular the android, I realized that I enjoyed reading on it. Though this is not a plug for the youversion app, I found myself exploring its different features particularly the plans. By January I determined that I would use one of their plans and read through the entire Bible in a year.

Was it easier with the the technology? Yes and no. It was easier because I could take the android anywhere with me; and the print on the screen was much easier to see than using my actual Bible. I also received daily reminders. However, I still had to make the time daily to get this in. There were days that I missed, but I was able to go back or just double up on particular days.

What did I learn? Reading the bible in a year was like running a marathon. Sometimes it felt great and I felt inspired; sometimes I could really relate to the characters; many times I got a new perspective. Sometimes I was rebuked, and convicted in my spirit to make a change. But there were times when it felt tedious, and I simply asked God to make it clear to me in time.  Revelation 22 was the last chapter I read in the New Testament and Proverbs 31 was the last reading for the Old Testament. My year ended with these thoughts - I'm striving to be a virtuous woman knowing that when I get to heaven it will all be worth it.

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 2 Timothy 3:16 [NLT]

Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God’s promises to be fulfilled. Romans 15:4 [NLT]

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Ingesting God's word is one of those things that is good for you. I hope you take the time this year to read through the Bible. Are you reading?