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Bible tips

Monday, January 3, 2011
Flowers from Dave {2/365}


I have been so excited to hear from many of you who plan to read the Bible this year!  I am not by any stretch of the imagination an "expert" at reading the Bible at all.  In fact, I am a novice BUT so many people have told me that they are going to try the reading plan I did last year...that I thought I would share a few tips for what got me through...

1. Choose a good time everyday the same time of day.  I think this is really vital.  It does not matter what time of the day.  However, for it to become a habit there needs to be consistency/habit/routine.  For me, the best time of day was right before bed.  Every night when I climbed into bed and saw the Bible on my nightstand, I felt like I should be obedient and read.  Some nights, I read out of guilt (honestly) but after a while that was no longer the case.  I began to really look forward to reading.

2. The plan gives you 5 days off a month.  Use them.  There were nights when I was exhausted and I just went to sleep. The breaks were good for me because I did not burn out. Sometimes, if I knew I would not read (if we had a date or social event or were going to be out of town)...I read ahead a day or two.  I also brought my Bible to Mass with me every Sunday and used the 10-15 minutes before Mass to catch up/get ahead.

3. Don't let yourself get too far behind.  If you get sick or fall behind, do two days of readings for a few days to catch up.  I struggled with a few OT books and I would get ahead in the NT.  I just made myself catch up before the next month began.

4. Tell other people you are doing this and ask them to help keep you accountable or pray for you.  Posting about it on my blog helped to make me finish it.  I have to be honest that this begins as an exercise in obedience and discipline and then it becomes so much more.  Being accountable helps with the obedience part.

Finally, I would love to pray for you if you are starting the program.  And I will pray for you throughout the year too.  So leave me a little comment if you are doing it.   The peanuts go back to school tomorrow and I will return to more regular posting.  
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Posted by 3 Peanuts at 2:05 PM
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49 comments:

  1. LoriJanuary 3, 2011 at 2:14 PM

    Ha, this is so funny that you posted this! I am doing the Discipleship Journal reading plan for this year so thanks for the tips!! :)

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  2. LoriJanuary 3, 2011 at 2:15 PM

    This comment has been removed by the author.

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  3. AnonymousJanuary 3, 2011 at 2:17 PM

    Kim,

    I tried starting last year - I was in the middle of RCIA and so my start was really strong. But as my mom's health declined and then I went home to spend her last weeks with her, I found my faith being tried and my daily reading was too much of a "chore". I am sorry to say that I never re-started after she passed away either.

    She was a woman of deep faith and these past months have been a struggle to find my strong faith. After reading your post I feel that this might be the thing to help me - can you guide me to what program you used?? I remember you talking about it, and I think I might have even written it down...

    I of course would love your prayers as I try this - hopefully with better results this time:)

    Glad that you, Dave and the peanuts had a wonderful holiday and hope school goes well for them tomorrow!

    Blessings, Ashley
    ashley.ashlynnrose@gmail.com

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  4. AngieJanuary 3, 2011 at 2:33 PM

    Your resolution inspired me to do the same. At age 34, married with 3 girls, I am just now finding and learning about God. I have been feeling like I wanted to commit more, so reading the bible is the answer for me right now. I have a wonderful husband that is sharing this journey with me. It's only day three, but I think that I'm doing a good plan that I can work with and still be able to take care of my 3 little princesses. Please pray for my strength and obedience... btw, I absolutely love reading your blog!!

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  5. BrookeJanuary 3, 2011 at 2:34 PM

    I just wanted to let you know how uplifting this post was to me... And ironic for that matter. Ok- not ironic, but a 'God Thing!' I read your post about reading the Bible in a year and was so inspired. However, I didn't start right away because I was scared of failing. However, after much prayer, I decided this was really a goal worth pursuing, and I was going to give it my very best effort. So I started today. I just read my very first passage of scripture in my one year plan! And after finishing my Bible time, I decided to hit up my favorite blogs. What an awesome feeling to see this as your post today! I feel like God is definitely giving me a little wink of encouragement!! Happy New Year! :)

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  6. DawnJanuary 3, 2011 at 2:39 PM

    I am so excited to be doing this. I have the "One Year Bible" (that I bought a few years ago :), so I am going to use it, the only downside is it does not give any days off, but I will take your advice and read ahead if I know something is coming up.

    I too, have to read right before bed, I keep it on my night table so I see it.

    I am thinking of purchasing a new bible as well, I think you have the Quest, would you recommend that one or stick to the NIV??

    Thanks for the tips Kim...xoxo

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  7. Preppy Pink CrocodileJanuary 3, 2011 at 3:08 PM

    This is my #1 resolution this year! It was last year too but I never told anyone. I blogged about it this year to hold myself more accountable.

    Oh and thank you for answering my juicing question. You're such a doll to contact me like that!

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  8. Cindy BJanuary 3, 2011 at 3:47 PM

    I'm going to be reading this year with my daughters. I really do appreciate any prayers.

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  9. emilybJanuary 3, 2011 at 4:31 PM

    Please pray for me Kim!! You really inspired me to do it. I had read your post and it really spoke to me - was thinking "I really should do that" but was not fully motivated/committed. Well later that same day, I recieved an email from my church inviting people to join a group that would read through the bible this year!! I knew right then that God was telling me to do this- it was that extra little nudge I needed. You really planted the seed and desire for me to do it and the group/accountability "sealed the deal". I've been reading at the same time, when Cooper takes his nap and Preston is at school. That's typically "my" time to do what I need around the house, check computer, read, etc. It's worked out so far, all 3 days of it!!!!:)Thanks for sharing your journey about it on your blog.

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  10. StephanieJanuary 3, 2011 at 4:37 PM

    This was one of my resolutions for last year. I didn't quite make it, so it is #1 on my list for this year. I am already ahead (we have a trip coming up) and I am hoping to stay on top of things. Prayers would greatly be appreciated.

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  11. Carie @ Space for the ButterfliesJanuary 3, 2011 at 4:41 PM

    Well I'm obviously not the only one inspired to take up a bible reading challenge so I'm delurking to say how much I enjoy reading your blog and to thank you for the link to the Discipleship plan. I'm only on day 3 but I'm really enjoying it so far.

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  12. NancyJanuary 3, 2011 at 4:51 PM

    Kim, thanks for the tips. I always get to church early and love the idea of using that time to catch up. I would appreciate your prayers as this is something I truly want to complete this year. You have inspired me :)

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  13. teresa-bugJanuary 3, 2011 at 5:00 PM

    I am going to do this!! Like so many, I have tried before and failed. Thank you so much for the encouragement!

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  14. Melody LietzauJanuary 3, 2011 at 5:03 PM

    I'm starting today. A man from our congregation designed a cool plan. I'm going to take your advice and do it before bedtime and would appreciate prayer that I stay consistent.

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  15. PaigeJanuary 3, 2011 at 5:04 PM

    I'm going to do it, started on the first and am committed. I did this 10 years ago and it took me 2 years to complete, I really want to complete it in a year this time. Thank you so much for the encouragement!!!
    Paige

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  16. Nonnas NewsJanuary 3, 2011 at 5:49 PM

    Kim, Im doing a reading plan to read the New Testament in a year. I wanted to do this first and see how I do then next year will do my best to read the entire bible in a year. I would appreciate your prayers.

    I enjoy reading about your 3 Peanuts. You have a beautiful family!

    Thanks in adavance for your prayers!
    Patti

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  17. KamJanuary 3, 2011 at 5:59 PM

    Hi Kim, I'm in! I've read the Bible through cover to cover only a few times since I was a teenager. The last time was three years ago. I wish I could say I've done it every year. But I'm trying something new this time....reading chronologically. I'm really excited about it. There are a ton of plans online and I'm looking forward to reading God's Word as it unfolds in a timeline. It is the story of our great God and I'm digging in to it like the awesome book it is!

    Hope you and yours are well!
    Happy New Year!
    Kam

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  18. a Tonggu MommaJanuary 3, 2011 at 6:11 PM

    I'm in! I haven't done this for a couple of years and am really feeling the need. I think I'm gonna follow my Discipleship readings format, though, as that one really spoke to me when I did it over a decade ago. But I will absolutely need prayer and encouragement in this. Thank you!

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  19. KimJanuary 3, 2011 at 6:11 PM

    I'm doing it too - the same one you posted. I had book marked your original post when Diana gave you your bible as I knew it was something I wanted to commit to. I started on Christmas Day - downloaded my bible to my Kindle and am plugging away! Pray for me as I feel exactly as you did when you started - I am not "thirsty" and I want to be!

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  20. a Tonggu MommaJanuary 3, 2011 at 6:12 PM

    Oh, and accountability, too. *grin*

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  21. DiJoJanuary 3, 2011 at 6:19 PM

    I just love seeing this post!!!! I skyped with my parents last night, and they are going to tackle it too!!! I did the first two days, so let's see how the next 363 go!!!

    So darn proud of you!!!!

    Love,
    Di

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  22. DiJoJanuary 3, 2011 at 6:20 PM

    VERY cool photo by the way!!!

    :)

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  23. Shari UJanuary 3, 2011 at 6:35 PM

    Kim, Your post on reading the bible totally inspired me! I wanted to read the Catholic version of the bible, as I converted 23 years ago and have never actually sat down and read those dueterocanonical books. I found a guide online, downloaded it and started on December 27th. I look forward to my daily readings and have gotten ahead by several days; I know I'll need those later for catch up days. I like your idea of bringing your bible to church and reading for a few minutes as you quiet yourself before mass starts. It looks like you've inspired a lot of other people, too! Hopefully you'll be hearing a lot of success stories next Christmas! Have a blessed new year. Thanks!!

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  24. Green GirlJanuary 3, 2011 at 7:10 PM

    I printed out the sheet of readings and I have just started it. I was laid off right before Thanksgiving so I have no excuse to not make time.
    There is a little chapel in Fairmount (part of Philadelphia) that the cloister nuns run and it is open all day and is so very quiet.
    It is the perfect place to do my readings.
    Thank you so much for sharing!

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  25. AnonymousJanuary 3, 2011 at 7:17 PM

    You have inspired me to get started on a Bible reading plan as well. I love your tips and am looking forward to getting this in while pregnant with our first baby!!

    Thank you for the prayers!!!
    Allie

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  26. TracyJanuary 3, 2011 at 7:22 PM

    I'm in! I've followed your blog, been inspired by your faith and family and also call Diana my friend.

    Thank you in advance for your prayers through the journey. I'm starting tonight.

    Tracy

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  27. KimJanuary 3, 2011 at 7:55 PM

    I am using the youversion and am doing this with one of my BFF's..
    I am on day 4 and Love it.. it is only like 10 to 15 min.. and then I go to my Women of Faith book to help me explain somethings a little bit more.
    Love it..
    I am sooo excited..
    Thank you girly.
    Love ya

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  28. LeslieJanuary 3, 2011 at 8:01 PM

    Thank you for your tips and your prayers. I start tonight (tomorrow is my "new year" since I go back to work...)

    Happy 2011!

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  29. AllyJanuary 3, 2011 at 8:46 PM

    Hi Kim! I am so impressed/inspired. I am not trying to do the read the bible in one year thing this year but my hubby and I are starting a Mark study with our couples dinner group. I am very excited. Brian hasn't done a lot of group bible studies so if you could keep him in your prayers that would be great!

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  30. JodeeJanuary 3, 2011 at 8:57 PM

    You go girl! I know you can do it!

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  31. Steffie B.January 4, 2011 at 6:38 AM

    well....you already know that I am doing it....and I have chosen before bed too....I also have another book I am reading after it as well....thank you for providing the link. I printed one out for Emmie too.

    There are things I am stepping away from this year and things I know need more attention and focus. My spiritual life being one of them. Family is the best gift I have been given....and I want my children to remember our times as positive ones....even when the tough times come.

    I believe 2011 is going to be a good one! ;)

    Hugs,
    Steffie

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  32. GlennaJanuary 4, 2011 at 8:03 AM

    Thanks so much for sharing all the tips and information on the program! I started it on Jan. 1 and love it!

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  33. AnonymousJanuary 4, 2011 at 9:01 AM

    Thank you so much for this Kim! I've followed your blog for quite a while and always find so much that is loving, supportive, thought-provoking, and worthwhile here. I started the program you shared last night. So excited. My mother is also doing this with me. By the way, my daughter is from the same SWI as Kate!

    Wendy

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  34. RachelJanuary 4, 2011 at 11:17 AM

    I've always done different devotionals, but this is the first year I'm reading the whole Bible using the plan you posted - thanks for the tips!

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  35. Amy G.January 4, 2011 at 1:00 PM

    Because of you, I am inspired to read do the daily reading plan. I really appreciate the fact that you put it out there. I would also appreciate your prayers. I have two small boys so I am going to break it up and do 1/2 the plan this year and 1/2 next year.

    Thanks!

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  36. melissaJanuary 4, 2011 at 1:03 PM

    Kim - I can not thank you enough for sharing your bible reading journey! Althooo .. I have tired this a few times in the past years, I feel that with the Discipleship Bible plan, I will most certainly accomplish my goal! I started on 1.1.11 and have found it very 'do-able'. I am reading on my ipad and really love the ease of that!! Reading at bed time, before I move on to my nightly book reading.

    Beautiful boken photo!

    *Blessings*

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  37. KeishaJanuary 4, 2011 at 1:05 PM

    And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:24-25

    Kim.. what you just posted on your blog.. is EXACTLY what this verse in Hebrews says to do!
    Thank YOU so much for your encouragement, prayers and your Honesty! Thank you for allowing Him to use you & share your heart .. here on your blog!
    Sending you a HUG!
    Keisha

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  38. MaluJanuary 4, 2011 at 1:47 PM

    I just loved your invitation about reading the bible, I must confess I've read it twice, but the word of God is light to our lives and to our paths so I accept the challenge, It will be my pleasure .xoxo

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  39. LlamaJanuary 4, 2011 at 5:33 PM

    You are such a true inspiration! I wish and hope and pray for the strength to do this one day. It takes much discipline and devotion and I have to admit...it is so very intimidating...but Id really love to some day!

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  40. katrinaJanuary 4, 2011 at 6:32 PM

    I started on January 1st so far so good. Thanks for the tips

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  41. AnonymousJanuary 5, 2011 at 11:39 AM

    You inspired me and I am doing it. I would LOVE for you to pray for me!

    Jill

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  42. AnonymousJanuary 5, 2011 at 5:12 PM

    my husband and I started reading together at 5am before work. It's changed our marriage. He just finished the new testament and i'm so proud of him! He didn't like at first either but now it's special to him.

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  43. lisaJanuary 5, 2011 at 8:07 PM

    I am inspired to read through the bible this year because of you. Please pray that I will have the dedication to stick with it.

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  44. AnonymousJanuary 5, 2011 at 8:11 PM

    Kim, I've just left a comment earlier today that included my e-mail address. I forgot to ask you to block my address from posting. Can you remove my e-mail address from the post? Thanks in advance!

    Karen MacKenzie
    Souris, Prince Edward Island
    Canada

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  45. carrieJanuary 6, 2011 at 7:31 AM

    I am doing this too and so excited about it!

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  46. LoriJanuary 6, 2011 at 12:01 PM

    Kim, thanks again for the tips, they've already come in handy! :)
    Thanks for the comments too, yes, new ring and I like you with a short bob, it seems to suit you well?!!
    I hope your new year is off to a good start and although a long way off, cheers to a relaxing and cozy Christmas 2011!
    xoxo

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  47. PaigeJanuary 6, 2011 at 1:42 PM

    Kim, Thank you for the encouragement, my husband and I are following the same plan and I have not missed a day yet:) I read through the bible 12 years ago and it took me 2 years to complete so it is about time I do it again and I am committed to do it in a year this time, already feel so blessed!! On a totally different note: we are about to go to Disney and I know you went earlier, just wondering if you needed a stroller for Kate. Madeline will be 4 in a few weeks so I am on the fence. Thanks so much!! My email (that I check:) is pgrit@colliervillepet.com

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  48. John & MichelleJanuary 7, 2011 at 7:32 AM

    Kim, I'm starting late. Today is the 7th and my first day of reading so please keep those prayers coming! I'll be reading during Piper's nap times to catch up! Happy New Year! Piper is 1 tomorrow and it's been the best, most JOY filled year of my life!

    I used to tell my mom that I'd be a REAL mother when I got an exploding diaper and a dried pasta necklace! I'm still waiting on the necklace, but cried and gave thanks for that diaper!!!

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  49. KristinJanuary 7, 2011 at 9:12 AM

    I think this is awesome and a great action plan. Thank you for you!

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Thank you for your kindness.