“I have a fundamental belief in the Bible as the Word of God, written by those who were inspired. I study the Bible daily.”

-Sir Isaac Newton

Today I came across a pastor who’s encouraging his congregation to read their Bibles cover to cover. I was surprised to learn, according to his post, only 10% of Christians in the U.S. have done this. (See New Vintage Leadership blog post) Since my original post on this topic, a twenty-something called me out on that statistic. Since I couldn’t find an original source, I’ll focus on another way the scriptures impact our lives — reading the Bible daily. According to a poll by the Barna Group, “Currently an estimated 40% of adults read the Bible during a typical week.” This is a drop of 5% from 1991. (see Barna Report on trends from 1991-2011)

Several years ago, my parents started reading through the Bible. As I watch them, I’m continually amazed at how it’s transforming their personalities and their lives. I’ve seen a similar transformation from reading through the Bible daily in my own life.

Yesterday a thirty-something shared with me, how he kept his word to his former employer who has now relocated from the Pacific NW to Southern Cal. He committed to remain there until the end of 2011, even though most other employees were jumping ship early. The others experienced short term gain, but in the long term, this thirty-something recognized he was better off keeping his integrity and letting his yes be yes, according to scripture. (Matthew 5:37) Today, in spite of the lean job market and the weak economy, he’s experiencing career advancement and favor. There are blessings associated with reading God’s word — and living according to His counsel.

Do you read the Bible daily?

Let me ask you this: What book is more important than the one containing the inspired words of God Himself?

I believe the key for most people is to read every day, just a little at a time. The first time I read through a One Year Bible it took me three years. You know what I say to that? So what! So what if it takes three years, or four, or five? Spending time reading the inspired words of God changes who I am.

It’ll change you too.

Start today.

“It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'”

-Jesus Christ, Matthew 4:4

References:

Wikipedia: Newton’s Religious Views

Barna Examines Trends in 14 Religious Factors over 20 Years (1991 to 2011)

Tim Spivey

Jon Courson