Journey With Me – Through The New Testament
A New Year. What are your plans?
I am sure all of you will have many new resolutions and things you plan to do in 2011. Is reading the Bible one of them? The church is embarking on the 3rd year of Bible Reading for 2011 and quite a number of us have indeed seen how the Word of God is living and active in our lives through the regular Bible reading.
2011 marks the start of another year long Bible Reading campaign. This year, we are going through the New Testament … in 5 days a week… 5 minutes a day!
Intead of following a reading plan for every day of the week and year, we will now have a plan that requires us to just read along 5 days a week.
On the weekends, this is the time for us to reflect on what we have read in the week.
No time to start? It takes an average of just 5 minutes a day to read one chapter. And there are just 260 chapters to read for 2011. Why not resolve to make a start? We begin on Monday 3 Jan 2011 🙂
Just some pointers….
5 minutes a day
If you are not currently reading the Bible, start with 5 minutes a day. This reading plan will take you through all 260 chapters of the New Testament, one chapter a day. The Gospels are read throughout the year to keep the story of Jesus fresh all year.
5 days a week
Determine a time and location to spend 5 minutes a day for 5 days a week. It is best to have a consistent time and a quiet place where you can regularly spend time with the Word of God.
5 ways to get more of what you are reading
Reading the Bible regularly is a great way to start knowing God more. But in order to get more of what you are reading, you can try the following exercises that will encourage you to meditate more, share more and encourage each other more with the Word of God as you capture insights of God’s love letter to you. We recommend trying out a single idea for a week to find what works best for you. Remember to keep a pen and paper ready to capture God’s insights.
1. Underline or highlight key words or phrases in the Bible passage. Use a pen, highlighter or colour pencil to mark new discoveries from the text. Periodically review your markings to see what God is teaching you.
2. Put it into your own words. Read the passage or verse slowly, then rewrite each phrase or sentence using your own words.
3. Ask and answer some questions. Questions unlock new discoveries and meanings. Ask questions about the passage using these words: who, what, why, when, where, and how. Jot down some thoughts on how you would answer these questions. Attend the Tuesday Bible Reading Services to learn more about what you are reading.
4. Share your impressions and favourite verses. Sharing bible verses and your impressions on what you read helps us to remember better the lessons we have gained. Make it a point to share with others in church, home fellowships, classes and even on the Internet.
5. Personalize the meaning. When God speaks to us through the Scriptures, we must respond. A helpful habit is personalizing the Bible through application.
Ask: How could my life be different today as I respond to what I’m reading?
So… will you join me in our journey through the New Testament?