So as I wrap up week 1 bible in a year with the disciple journal plan I have learned a couple of lessons and tips for getting the most you can out of the reading. This reading plan is intense in a lot of ways yet rewarding at the same time. For a guy like me who reads slowly and very deeply this approach has definitely been different but I am reminded that bible in a year is not a once in a lifetime thing. This is a routine for many (and hopefully me) that will lead to different scriptures coming alive every time I read them. The variety of scriptures at one time is overwhelming but is also rewarding in times where we are reading genealogies or especially when we hit Leviticus we will also be in the gospels and psalms.
Some of the things that have helped me the most have been the community, a schedule and breaking it up. Breaking it up is one of my favorite things to do as we(Katie and I) have been trying out reading the psalm each day at the dinner table with the kids.It has also been fun with the load being heavier than my normal routine I find myself when I have a free moment grabbing my bible to start reading. My times have also been sweet as I have been journaling alongside reading each night. I would highly encourage you to join along side in journaling too.
The schedule has also been a huge help, having a plan give me so much direction. Also having a set time every night and knowing that Katie is there has really encouraged me to stay on track. I have learned that I dont need just a plan but I must protect my schedule with utmost priority.
The biggest help though has been the community of people reading. Just knowing that there are over 25 people alongside me has been encouraging and humbling. The accountability has also been amazing. Not even people asking me “have you read” rather people asking my thoughts on different chunks or texting me what they are learning. That just fires me up like very few other things. Having Katie reading right along sideme has not just been great for accountability but has really been cool to do with my wife. I would encourage you to find some people close to you and let them know what you are doing and encourage them to ask you too what you are learning. Keep up the pursuit of God through the word. Let me know if you need anything
Michael
ps: if you are ever intersted in posting thoughts on the blog let me know
