What I’ve Learned So Far By ACTUALLY Reading My Bible…..
I don’t know about all of you, but growing up attending Christian churches and schools, reading the Bible always felt like more of a chore than a desire. The length of it, the fact that it has so many authors, and so many different versions (NIV, KJV, etc. intimidated me. Not only do I remember it not being intriguing or interesting, but I would probably recall it as something that was, more than likely, BORING. But let me retract and SAY THIS WITH MY CHEST…. it is everything BUT BORING.
Not only can I describe it as the most intriguing history book I’ve ever read, but more importantly, it is my #1 recommended “self-help” book. To preface, I’m JUST BEGINNING my journey with ACTUALLY reading and studying the Bible so I am in no position, nor do I have the knowledge to teach any about anything; however, I can just give insight on what’s worked for me, if you’re just starting your journey.
I started my journey like most others do…..scouring google to find, “WHERE DO I START?” And through multiple searches I found if I figured out how the Bible is set up/put together then maybe, just maybe, I’ll have a better idea on how to read it.
Do I just start from Genesis 1:1?
Do I research topics and verses that help address these said topics?
Do I just open my Bible up and point out a verse and start reading?
These were all things I tried….however what I did was take a different route. I first looked up how the Bible is broken into parts. Once I did this I understood more what the collection of books (i.e The Gospels, “Law of Moses”) were about.
Here’s where it took a turn…the desire alone brought my answer….something kept telling me to START IN PROVERBS….and as a parent, I’m so glad I did.
(Giving more insight on what I’m learning from Proverbs will be a future blog post.)
What I love about Christianity is that, although there is backlash about “CHRISTIANS” being judgmental, condemning, and condescending, I found the complete opposite experience. Beyond the overcorrecting, attempt to control others, emphasis on the outward not the inward perception… I found that Christianity has taught me about: humility, grace, self-reflection and having unconditional love for others.
“ Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye, when all the time there is a plank in your own eye.”
Matthew 7:1-4
So where do you start? Pray on it… ask God for guidance. You will end up exactly where you’re meant to be.