Why isn't reading the Bible more exciting to me?

Question

I have read the Bible through from cover to cover six times
and the New Testament more times than I can count. I don’t get
the concept of reading the same message day after day. The
Scriptures state that the word will be written on our hearts. I am
bored reading the Scriptures. I wish I wasn’t but the fact of the
matter is, I am bored.

I would like to hear what you have to say regarding my
comments.

Answer

When you practice a spiritual discipline, whether it’s reading
the Bible or praying or fasting or whatever, it’s absolutely critical
to remember the goal: greater connection with the living God.
Behind all of these disciplines is not a discipline; it’s a Person,
Jesus Christ, Who desires to know
us, to be in relationship with us. Reading the Bible can
become boring when the point is just to “get through” a certain
amount of Scripture in a certain time period. That’s not the
point. The point is daily connection with God, ultimately leading
to a moment-by-moment connection. God wants us not merely
to read about Him, but to walk
with Him.

I suggest that you take a step back to see the big picture
regarding your discipline of reading the Bible, and ask yourself a
key question: Why am I doing this? Is it merely to
accomplish a reading goal? To check off a “to do” list? To please
God? What pleases God is not simply the practice of a spiritual
discipline, but the end result of a deeper and more intimate
connection with His heart, leading to a passionate, vibrant
relationship with your Creator. Sometimes that’s accomplished
by reading, sometimes praying, sometimes just sitting reflecting
and meditating on His Word and His character, and sometimes
just listening quietly.

I remember reading in seminary a book on teaching the
Bible, written by Dr. Howard Hendricks, a professor at Dallas
Theological Seminary. In it he tells the story of a person who
came to him one day and said, with a hint of pride, “I’ve been
through the Bible 15 times, Dr. Hendricks!” I’ll never forget Dr.
Hendricks’ response: “Wonderful! Now, how many times has the
Bible been through you?”

That little encounter has stuck with me over the years,
gently reminding me that when I sit down to read my Bible, it’s
not about how much of it I can get through, but how much of it
gets through me.

Blessings,

JOHN THOMAS

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About the Author

John Thomas

John Thomas has been a Boundless contributor since its beginning in 1998. He and his wife, Alfie, have three children and live in Arkansas, where he serves as executive director of Ozark Camp and Conference Center, a youth camp and retreat center.