How to Start Reading the Bible: Part 2, Suggested Studies
In December, I wrote a kick-off post on reading the bible called How to Start Reading the Bible: Part 1 and in that, I promised a follow-up with a few studies to help you get started! I reached out to some of my favorite friends to help, so I promise you everything below is GOLD.
For the Bible Studier: She Reads Truth is a gift to Bible-reading woman. They have everything from daily readings to full reading email plans, to physical bible studies (which are stunningly beautiful, I might add). These studies also require you to dig in, they aren't surface level which I love. There's something here for everyone and every budget and it's an amazing place to start if you don't know where to.
For a Power House study: Jude-By Jackie Hill Perry. I haven't done this particular study myself but I trust queen Jackie with all things. She is a master teacher and wordsmith and close friends have told me it's a refining study.
For the ones who don't do anything alone: SOAPs. This one isn't exactly a packaged study but is a way of studying the bible that I use pretty consistently. My home church pushes it and the acronym stands for:
SCRIPTURE
OBSERVATION
APPLICATION
PRAYER.
Pick a book, go chapter by chapter or just a few verses at a time. Write down your S, O, A, and P. This one is best done with a partner(s) to share it with and help keep you on track!
For a daily dose: Two here, and I may be biased, but Jesus Calling and Simple Pursuit. These are both daily devotionals that have been a staple for me at one time or another. If you're soft like me and want love letters from Jesus, Jesus Calling is your go-to. If you're a young person and want a study that's relatable and written for you, then Simple Pursuit was actually written by 18-25 yos (including myself) FOR YOU. So do that.
Specifically for men : My husband claims that "The Quest for Authentic Manhood" really defined manhood for him and is basically the reason we are together. So, if that's not a glowing review I'm not sure what is.
There are a ton of other beautiful/helpful products for bible reading like the The Bible Project, and several artfully printed singular books. If that helps you then make the investment! Either way, you have access to the Word of God, which will ground you in confidence and keep you sane more than any amount of self-talk or willpower. Let's get reading!
Have a study you love? Share it below and why!
