Why should we read the Bible regularly? 

There are many reasons why we should read our Bibles on a consistent basis. But to keep it simple and memorable, we can summarize it into 3 F’s:

The 3 F’s of Bible Reading

1. Feast - Nourishment 

Jesus said that He is the Bread of Life. He is the Word that became flesh (John 1:14). That means when we read the Word, our soul is being fed with the bread of life it desperately needs.

2. Form - Discipleship  

God calls us to be holy as He is holy. Reading the Word shapes us into His likeness in character, spirit, and lifestyle.

• The Word doesn’t just inform us, it forms us.
• It also “reads us,” convicting us of what needs to change and guiding us in how to live.
• John the Baptist prophesied the coming of Jesus Christ expressing that He is the Savior of the World. 

3. Fuel - Power Released  

The Word of God is alive and powerful (Hebrews 4:12).

• It carries the power to transform, create, and strengthen us.
• It equips us to do what we cannot do in our own strength.

Proven Impact of Reading the Bible

The Center for Bible Engagement (CBE) studied 100,000+ people over 8 years. Their research, The Power of 4 Effect, revealed a key truth:

Engaging the Bible 4+ times a week leads to real transformation.

• 1–3 times a week showed little change.
• 4+ times a week brought clear, measurable growth.

Key Findings:

• Loneliness: 30% drop
• Anger Issues: 32% drop
• Bitterness in Relationships: 40% drop
• Feeling Spiritually Stagnant: 60% drop
• Any Bad Habit: 57% lower odds
• Scripture Memorization: ↑ Strong increase
• Sharing faith: 200% increase
• Discipling others: 230% increase
• Confidence & hope in hard times: 170% increase

Essentials for Building a Bible Reading Habit

Here’s how you can actually cultivate consistency in the Word:

1. Get a Readable Bible 

Not every translation is easy to understand. Start with versions like NIV, NLT, or The Message. The KJV is beautiful but can be harder to grasp.

2. Reserve a Time & Place 

Habits don’t grow by accident. Be intentional:

• Choose a consistent time (morning is best).
• Choose a quiet place with no distractions.

4. Offer Prayer Before & After 

The Bible isn’t just another book—it’s living and active.

• Pray before reading: ask the Holy Spirit for insight.
• Pray after reading: ask God for strength to apply what you’ve learned.

5. Work a Plan 

Don’t just flip randomly to a page. Follow a plan (like the Dusty Bible Reading Plan).

• Remember: quality over quantity.
• A little each day, consistently, is more powerful than occasional long readings.

6. Track Insights (S.O.A.P. Notes) 

S.O.A.P. = Scripture – Observation – Application – Prayer

• Scripture: Write the verse that stands out.
• Observation: What is happening in the passage? What does it reveal about God?
• Application: How does this apply to your life today?
• Prayer: Ask God for wisdom and strength to live it out.

7. Hold Steady (Patience & Consistency) 

Growth is a process. Not every reading will feel “life-changing.” But just like daily meals, the Word nourishes your soul even when it doesn’t feel spectacular. Over time, you’ll see lasting fruit.

Helpful Apps for Your Bible Journey

YouVersion – Read or listen to the Bible, follow plans.

Bible Chat – Ask questions about passages you don’t understand. (Chat GPT for scriptures)

Blue Letter Bible – Dive deeper with commentaries and study tools.

Bottom Line: Reading the Bible is vital. It feeds your soul, shapes your character, and fuels your life with God’s power. Start small, stay consistent, and let the Word transform you!