This Thursday marks the first day in a brand new year, and it is a time when many people sit down and write out their goals or resolutions. Gym memberships will be purchased, exercise plans will be thought up, and people will determine to eat more healthy. I read this week that nearly half of all Americans come up with New Year’s resolutions, yet only 8% achieve their goals. Goals require discipline and intentionality, which is something that many people tend to forget. The same thing is true of spiritual goals. Do you have any spiritual goals for 2015? How do you intend to grow in your walk with God this upcoming year? Prayer, Bible reading, and involvement in Christ’s body will require discipline.
This year, I am encouraging our church family to read through the Bible using George Guthrie’s chronological reading plan. I used a plan over the last year that was developed by Back to the Bible, and I am encouraged by the testimony of many in our faith family of how they read through the Bible for the very first time. I want to encourage you to read with me once more, and this time, why not find someone to read through the Bible with you? Perhaps married couples can read together. Find a prayer partner and read through the Bible together, or a small group of other believers. Use the resources that we have made available and talk with one another about the weekly readings. If you have not purchased a copy of Dr. Guthrie’s reading guide, I am including a PDF file of the reading plan that you can download. The Chronological Reading Plan is developed into 52 weeks, each of which has six daily readings consisting of two or three chapters from God’s Word. If you are reading along with me, I am beginning Week 1, Day 1 of the reading plan on Monday, January 5.
When we store up God’s Word in our heart, it keeps us from sin. We need God’s Word more than our daily food. Disciples love God’s Word, read and study God’s Word, and obey God’s Word. The Word of God reveals the God of the Word. Knowing Him and making Him known must be the passionate pursuit of our lives. I am praying that 2015 will be a year of great spiritual growth in your life.
If you want to download a PDF file of the reading plan, or if you would like an audio version of the daily readings, follow these links:
http://www2.bhpublishinggroup.com/readthebible/downloads/RBL-Chron-2-Page.pdf