I read through the Bible in a year, a few years ago. When I started re-reading some books, I realized that none of the scriptures were familiar. After a while I realized I listened to the Bible during those scriptures.
I’m a big music, audiobook and podcast fan. Honestly, at this point I can’t even make myself read a book. I used to love to read everything from comics to the physical newspaper. However with 3 kids, a wife, and work, I just don’t have time. The time I do have is usually not conducive to getting engrossed into a book. Audiobooks or podcasts are different.
I can fit an audiobook or podcast into a lot of situations. Mowing the lawn, driving, washing dishes, you name it and either audio experience will work. I say all this to highlight that I listen to a lot of things. So the idea that listening to the Word would not work for me was very surprising.
After I thought about it, the inability to consume the Bible audibly is not surprising. When I read the Bible I take my time. Most scripture is not a pure story but each verse can be it’s own nugget of wisdom. Also, I will re read a passage to make sure I understood what I was reading. I try to read the Word like I’m studying, not just reading. This type of reading is NOT compatible with listening to the Bible.
So, with all of these realizations, I’ve started ONLY reading the Bible. On top of only reading the Bible, I’ve added taking notes in a spreadsheet to track what I’ve read and any thoughts on the scripture. I’m really liking my new setup. I’m trying to read through the entire Bible one chapter a day and this has allowed me to keep track of my slow read through the Word.
This is some what of a random post, but something that constantly comes up for me. I’d love to just play the Bible while doing other things and “read” that way, but unfortunately, it doesn’t work for me. On the other hand, reading makes me give the Lord my undivided attention, which is exactly what He deserves.
Does anyone else have this experience? If so, let me know in the comments.
Thank you for reading, and Lord willing, I’ll see you tomorrow.
I have to be concentrating on what w heard if I listen to the Bible. So it makes more sense to read it. Also looking at the words allows me to digest it better. And you are right God deserves our undivided attention.