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“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth (Genesis 1:1). He who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming quickly.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus. The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen.” (Revelation 22:20-21)

As 2023 kicks off, you may have decided on a few resolutions—bad habits you’d like to stop or new ones you’d like to start. It may only take a few days for you to have broken one or two. But that’s ok. Just get back on the horse, so to speak, forgive yourself, and start fresh again now (not “tomorrow,” mind you, but right now). You can do it!

Regardless of how long you have been a follower of Christ, here is a New Year’s question for you: What is your Bible-reading habit—is it a habit at all? Maybe you read a verse or two from an emailed devotion each morning, or you open the Bible and randomly choose a couple of verses to read. Once you spend those 5 minutes with the Word, you call it “good” and get on with your day. Maybe you have go-to verses you like to lean into, like a particular Psalm or passage from one of Paul’s letters—going to Leviticus or one of the minor prophets seems, well, “unprophetible” (lol).

But friend, “all Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man (and woman) of God may be complete, equipped for every good work” (2 timothy 3:16-17). It is Truth, living and active. Every word of God’s Word—not just the pillow-stitching verses. The Bible is His-Story (Jesus) and our story.

Have you ever challenged yourself to read the whole Word of God, from Genesis to Revelation? How about doing it in one year? Why not make 2023 the year to do so? It may require getting out of bed a few minutes earlier, taking your Bible to work and reading on your lunch break or turning off the TV sooner than usual to spend time in the Word with your spouse or kids. But you can do it! This is one habit—I promise—that may require discipline at first…but soon it will be the desire of your mind and heart. And you won’t want to miss a single day.

One approach that’s really cool is to read through the Bible in chronological order—the order in which Biblical events happened. There are lots of websites and apps out there to help you find a plan, but here is one for you now! So, get your copy of the Bible now, opening up to Genesis 1:1. You may have a few days of catchup to do, but you’ve got this! This will be the best investment you’ll make this year…the best habit you’ll form—in fact, it will no doubt positively impact all your other resolutions and habits.

“Lord, You promise that Your Word will not return void (Isaiah 55:11). May I diligently seek You in the Bible each day, learning more about Your love for me and growing deeper in love with You.”

For His Glory

Julianne Winkler Smith
TRBC Women’s Life