Many people struggle with reading the bible. They complain that it is hard to understand, boring, not interesting or exciting enough. But we have to ask, why do we read the bible? Let me explain why I read it. But first, a metaphor!
I have been running consistently, at least every other day, for the past 13 years. I ran a marathon three years ago. I ran last night. I will probably run tonight. I hate running (the act of running). It is the most unpleasant thing I do all day long. I had tried to run more consistently prior to 13 years ago, but did not have the drive or will power to stick with it. When I first started running consistently, it was the hardest thing I had to force myself to do each day. The best thing about running was when I stopped. I relished my off days. Running is not exciting, fun, or interesting. Quite opposite.
The above is true. So is the following. Running is one of the best things I do all day. It is the best routine I have. I am glad when I have run (after it is over). I want to keep running. It doesn't matter what anyone says, I will continue to run. Even if nobody else runs, I will. It bothers me if I miss a day or two of running. I will run if it 100 degrees or if it is 30 degrees. I will run in the rain.
Why do I run? Because it works for me. My life is so much better when I run. I have proven it to myself.
What does this have to do with bible reading?
3 comments:
So we do things that are not particulary enjoyable, like running and flossing, not because that they are particularly enjoyable, but because our life is better when we do.
Do you have trouble disciplining yourself to read the bible?
Aaron,
Sorry it has taken me so long to get caught up reading your blog. I do have some things that might be helpful on your journey here - things that have helped me in the past.
I like what you have been doing and would like to become more involved.
Bible reading is alot like jogging, or anything else you do that may not be enjoyable at first, but is worth sticking to it to reap the benefits.
I would like to keep up with your conversations. Is there a way to set this so an email is sent to me when someone posts on the blog? I do this with Grant's blog, so I know when he has posted something.
Let me know if there is. If not, I will make it a practice to check this daily.
Actually, for me, bible reading is a bit easier and more interesting than running. But it is more difficult and less interesting than many of our other things we have to do. But the idea is the same. They both require a certain level of discipline and work. This requires motivation.
What motivates you to read your bible? Don't just give me your head answer. Observe the internal process you go through to read your bible. As you approach reading, what internal talk goes on in your brain? What feelings do you have? The heart has a role here. Remember, it is the wellspring of action. There are some good and bad things going on at the level of the heart. Can you get a sense of what is going on in your heart as you approach your bible reading? You might want to meditate on that for 10 minutes before you read.
Post a Comment