It is vital for you to read God's Word daily. I want to encourage you to read these instructions from Margaret Feinberg that should be very helpful to you.

1. Begin in Prayer. As you begin to read, do so prayerfully. Ask God to open your eyes and heart to His truth and what He is going to reveal to you. The amazing thing about the Bible is that each time you read something new may grab your attention—a word, phrase, or story that you may not have noticed before. Prayerfully take notice of the themes or words that God is echoing to you.  
2. Celebrate God-Breathed Scripture. The Bible is the primary way God communicates and reveals Himself to His people. Remember: Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another—showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God’s way. (2 Tim 3:16) As you read, keep this passage in mind. Ask how the text you’re reading is teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training you in righteousness.
3. Context, Context, Context. Each passage should be read in context—within the text itself and in the cultural context. Head to a library or seminary and peek at commentaries or Bible dictionaries for help understanding cultural nuances. A great (free) resource iswww.blueletterbible.org. Discuss any questions you have with friends and pastors.
4. Listen to An Audio Bible. If you’re struggling to read your Bible, consider downloading or streaming a free audiobook Bible that allows you to listen to God’s Word wherever you are. (Click here to learn how). Scripture comes alive when you sit back and listen to God’s story unfold.
5. Read in Pinches. Sometimes tackling entire books or genres in one sitting can leave you drowsy. Instead, challenge yourself to read a handful of chapters or stories and then take a break. Use that time to pray, jot down questions, and simply rest your eyes.
6. Memorize passages. Whether you’ve attended church your whole life or are just learning the rhythms of Christ’s grace, meditating on and memorizing Scripture can be a rewarding adventure! Begin by memorizing short verses and continue to challenge yourself to memorize longer sections. Ask a friend or small group to join you and hold you accountable in the process.
7. The Old Meets the New. In God’s perfect story, the New Testament is hidden in the Old and the Old Testament is revealed in the New. Keep an eye out for references to the Messiah in the Old Testament and repeated Old Testament Scripture in the New. Perhaps grab a specific color pen or highlighter and mark when you see these instances pop up.
8. Jesus is the Reason. The good news of Christ is central to the entire story of Scripture—from Genesis to Revelation. God’s plan of redemption was in place from the beginning. Celebrate the story along the way.
9. Transformed by the Word. As we spend time reading, studying, and obeying the Scripture, we will naturally be transformed into likeness of Christ. You may find yourself overflowing with love, grace, and kindness. You may find that you are far more self-controlled and patient. The fruit of studying God’s Word and putting it into practice is becoming more like Christ.

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Contact Info

Pastor: Harlan White
1600 Stafford Avenue
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
              (540) 373-0002
pastorharlan@comcast.net