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A Dose of Encouragement for Reading the Bible

1. Notice what you’re reaching for.

When I have a moment of free time, I find that I’m not reaching for things like FacebookTwitterInstagram, or the latest episode of my favorite show (Parks & Rec anyone?). I’m reaching for my Message Bible. I’m searching for windows of time in which I can read a few more chapters, play catch up on the reading plan, and every so often get a few chapters ahead.

Celebrate the transformation that’s happening in your life as you read—both in subtle and significant ways—during Lent this year. 

2. Remember that God is speaking to you.

Tap. Tap, tap. Tap. Tap, tap, tap. Before you read each day, remember to ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate God’s Word to speak to you.

Be Encouraged: God wants to whisper and echo to you through the Scripture today.

Words like “wonder”, “awe,” and “marvel” have been popping off the pages as I read each day. With each passing book of the Old Testament, I’m reminded that we serve a God who is full of wonders—displaying His power, glory, miracles and presence among His people in wild and unexpected ways. This stirs my desire to see God move in greater ways—not just in my life but the church, our nation, our world—that leave us wonderstruck.

3. You’re getting stronger. 

With each passing day of the 40-Day Bible Reading Challenge, I’ve noticed this sense of strength in my spirit. Maybe you have, too. Sure, on many days reading 30-plus chapters of the Bible is hard, stretching, even exhausting. The discipline feels like long distance running. Some days every step is belabored. Slow. Arduous. Plodding.

But with each passing day, our spiritual muscles are growing stronger.

Can I encourage you with a passage?

2 Chronicles 32:6-8 describes Hezekiah rallying the people. He encourages them:

‘Be strong! Take courage! Don’t be intimidated by the king of Assyria and his troops—there are more on our side than on their side. He only has a bunch of mere men; we have our God to help us and fight for us!’

Morale surged. Hezekiah’s words put steel in their spines.

As you’re reading through the Bible, know that God’s word will “put steel in your spine” and strengthen you for the days ahead.

4. You’re further than you realize.

Pinch how many pages from Genesis 1 to where you are today and see just how far you’ve come. Don’t allow discouragement to settle in—even if you’ve fallen behind.