My standard go to approach for reading the Bible is to use a schedule that helps me read through the Bible. In fact a few years ago I got my favorite NIV One Year Bible custom rebound. Using this schedule has helped me build more consistency into my devotions.

But over the years, I have  discovered that there are different ways to read the scripture, and what brings life during one season my not be the same thing the brings you life during another season.

As I said, working through a schedule is my go to approach, but frequently I feel led for a few days or sometimes even for a few months, to spend time using other approaches.

Here are a few examples:

1. READ THROUGH A WHOLE BOOK. I remember as a young Christian sitting for hours, reading through a whole book of the bible (usually one of the shorter ones). It was so exciting to get the big picture, especially for the first time. From time to time I return to this approach and find great blessing in it.  I would particularly recommend Hebrews and Revelation.

2.

Early on I was also introduced to the idea of memorizing significant Bible verses. I still draw great meaning from those verses I have memorized, and from time to time return to this approach. I have found that I can use memorization to help me dwell on the verses that God is speaking to me about at this time in my life.

I shared with you a few ideas about how to build consistency into what many people call devotions.  Consistency is important, but it’s not enough to just be consistent. We also what our times of Bible reading and prayer to breath life into our day. We want to experience intimacy with Jesus in which we hear his voice and experience his presence.