“For we have the living Word of God, which is full of energy, like a two-mouthed sword. It will even penetrate to the very core of our being where soul and spirit, bone and marrow meet! It interprets and reveals the true thoughts and secret motives of our hearts.” (Hebrews 4:12 TPT)
The final two weeks of 2022 were filled with a plethora of [good!] activities, but I felt like I could not find the quiet time to muse/think/ponder what God might be saying for 2023. As I write this I still don’t have a full understanding, but I have more space to “Be still and know that he is God.” Part of me is somewhat apprehensive about this new year – I have a foreboding feeling and I can’t quite figure out whether it’s from my emotions and flesh, or whether it’s a gentle “heads up” from the Spirit within me. For now, I will sit quietly and wait to see what time and discernment bring.
Last week I started thinking about a focus for my Bible reading in 2023. Some years I am a part of a Bible study group, some years I read as I feel prompted, and some years I’ve read through the entire Bible in a year. I think I’m supposed to do the entire Bible again this year. Someone pointed me toward a resource called “The Bible Recap,”* which is a chronological Bible reading plan that offers daily accompanying podcasts, journals, and other books. As I write this I’m planning to start this plan tomorrow – just my Bible, my journal & pen, and the first three chapters of Genesis.
I am somewhat apprehensive about being locked into a plan or schedule because I like to stop and spend time on things that catch my attention. For instance, I’m working on a multi-day blog series on the life of Samson. I don’t want to neglect deeper studies just to keep up with an external plan. On the other hand, having some sort of starting structure – and something to return to if I “fall off the wagon” – is a good thing. And, in the past when I have finished reading through the Bible, it has felt like a big accomplishment. If someone else’s plan can keep me headed in the direction of my “Big, Hairy, Audacious Goal,” I should use it, right!??
What I don’t want to accomplish is just “putting my eyes on every word in the Bible.” I do want to hear again the meta-narrative of God’s Story. I do want to remember verses and stories that have spoken to me in the past. I do want to listen for the NEW God will speak to me in this year’s journey. Mostly, though, I want to better know God. What is his heart saying for me this day? What do I need to do in response? Maybe you, too, are wondering these (or other Bible-related) questions. If so, join me as we read through the Bible in 2023.
God,
Thank you for a new year and an ongoing call to know you better. Thank you for your Word that teaches us about your purpose, plans, and heart for this world and for each of us. Help us each to find the stillness with in us so that we can hear from your flawless, living, and powerful Word. We exalt you and pray you will be a shield and refuge for us. In Christ’s name we pray, Amen.
“Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” (Psalm 46:10 NIV)
“For the word of God is living and active and full of power [making it operative, energizing, and effective]. It is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating as far as the division of the soul and spirit [the completeness of a person], and of both joints and marrow [the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and judging the very thoughts and intentions of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12 AMP)
“Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.” (Proverbs 30:5 NIV)
*If you are interested in checking out The Bible Recap, go to www.thebiblerecap.com. If you end up participating in a plan to read through the Bible in 2023, let me know!!