Looking for a Bible Reading Plan? Three Recommendations and a Resource

Now's the time of year when we tend to think about changing our habits. Maybe you've even thought about reading through the Bible in its entirety in 2017. What a great idea! But maybe you don't know which plan to choose. I'm here to help. Based on doing this many times, here are my two favorite plans. I'll call one the SENSIBLE plan. I'll call the other the INSANE plan. I highly recommend both. I'll also throw in another one I'm considering, along with a great resource.

SENSIBLE: THE BIBLE EATER PLAN

I know the name sounds silly, but I've used this plan in 2016, and I've loved it. My favorite part about "Bible Eater" is that it gives you room to miss days during the months and make them up later. It actually goes by quarter. It takes you through the entire Bible, even going through Romans and Hebrews twice. I'm also a sucker for well-done design, and you'll like utilizing this free handout. It's the first plan I've ever utilized that honestly doesn't feel like I'm going through a plan. I think that's good.

INSANE: HORNER'S BIBLE PLAN

In this plan, you read through 10 chapters a day. Yes, 10. Not easy, I know. However, if you read 2-3 chapters several times throughout the day, you'll find it's not as hard as you think. You end up reading a ton of Scripture. Tim Challies has a great article about the system here. I've done this a couple of times, and I really enjoyed it. Something to consider if you've done the other plans and are looking for something a bit crazier! 

ANOTHER OPTION: THE BIBLE PROJECT PLAN

I just stumbled today on the Bible Project's new plan. If you've not watched the ministry's web videos, you're missing out. This plan walks you through 16 "chapters" of the redemptive story. There are videos you can watch before you get to each biblical book. I was set to do some "Bible eating" again this year, but then I stumbled across this. There's a decent chance I'll try it out. 

A RESOURCE: READINGPLAN APP

Do you find yourself utilizing different Bibles during the day? Do you like reading the Bible on your phone? Maybe you just like having your progress with you at all times. This great, free app has a number of great plans (all three of the ones here!). You really should check it out.

I'm not a big fan of New Year's resolutions. They're legalistic. They inevitably lead to pride or despair. However, the new year does give us an opportunity to reevaluate our priorities and make the word of God an emphasis of our days. Read God's word in 2017!