Some of my Christian friends start every year trying to read through the entire Bible by December 31st.
This can be accomplished by reading an average of three chapters a day or a total of forty hours.
Most of them fail to do it. When I ask why, they tell me how they got bogged down in Leviticus or Isaiah. Some of the tediousness of these books slows us down or discourages us from reading all together.
Whenever the mood strikes to read again, the last thing they remember is what they were reading when they quit. That negative memory prohibits them from picking it back up.
Now let me say that all scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable. Everything in the Book was given to us for a purpose and for profit. We don’t always know what the purpose and profit is, however. So some of the areas we do not feel are benefitting us cause us to put it down for extended periods of time.
So what can we do if we are out of the habit of reading?
1. Quit setting a minimum amount to read.
So many times we plan to read thirty minutes or five chapters. We don’t approach any other reading that way. I don’t pick up a book and say, “I will read this for an hour.” I don’t pick up a magazine and plan to read three articles. I start reading and stop when I am ready for something else.
2. Quit reading it in order.
Read what you want. If you like the gospels, read them. If you love the Psalms, stay there. If you enjoy Proverbs, read it. If you’re an Old Testament fanatic, enjoy. I would rather know that someone is in the Bible every day, but not reading it all, than to not read any because they felt they had to do so in some certain order.
3. Get an audio Bible.
Maybe stream it from your computer while you are working. Put it on your ipod or get an app for your smartphone. I remember buying the Bible on cassette tape and later CD for hundreds of dollars. Now there are free audio apps everywhere you look. Listen while you are doing housework or mowing the yard. You’ll be amazed at how much you can listen to in a short period of time. I believe listening to the Bible being read is as good as reading it. You’re welcome.
Human nature seeks what it enjoys and avoids what it doesn’t. Give yourself some freedom to enjoy reading your Bible again and you’ll find yourself seeking it out more.
Appetites that are fed, grow.
Soon you’ll even find yourself jumping into Leviticus.
Joel Stiff's Adventure 
That was advice not often given! To be honest, I have never heard it! Extremely helpful for all, though!! Praying for you “guys”! Your blog is a blessing. (Now that just sounds funny!)
Thank you, Terri. I hope what I have to say is a help. Many of the structures that have been put into place don’t work for everyone. When we fail often enough, we give up. Allowing a little more freedom has helped me become successful in areas where I have previously failed. I’d rather get it half right than not at all. You’ve got to start somewhere. Hope you “guys” are doing great as well. Happy anniversary!
Just read your reply – thanks for the anniversary wishes!! Trust y’all are having a great vacation!!
I just wanted to tell you this was such a help to me. I feel ashamed of my Bible time sometimes because I have failed at it so many times. This has given me a whole new perspective. Thank you for sharing this!
I’m so glad, Sarah. It was a great day when I heard a preacher say, “I have a confession to make. I didn’t read my Bible every day last year.” His honesty helped me to realize that no one is perfect and everyone struggles with their devotional life. Too often, the goal set for us is perfection when it should be growth. Thanks for reading!