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- The first time you read the entire Bible using any of the reading plans above you will find that only around 20% of what you read sinks into your heart. Do not get disheartened. After every reading the percentage of understanding will keep going up. So cheer up!
- Sometimes you may miss reading for one day or some days. It can happen at times. There is no need to feel guilty about it and stop reading altogether. That temptation is from Satan and should be resisted. Return to reading as soon as possible.
- One important thing to note is that you should not skip reading the Bible simply because you are not ``feeling good'' or because you are not in a ``right mood'' to read the Bible. Make it a discipline to read the Bible at a set time everyday. And as soon as you start reading the Bible, you will find your heart warm up to its contents.
- One deception that Satan uses to keep us from reading God's Word is that he repeatedly tells us that today's portions are difficult or boring. And many times we believe these lies and do not read the Bible. Go ahead and read and you will be surprised to see the very portions that Satan told you were difficult or boring bring strength to your soul! (He will also tell that ``today's reading did you no good. You just wasted your time,'' as soon as you finish reading. Don't listen to this liar!).
- A problem that can trouble you while reading is the difference in impact. On some days you may feel totally enriched after the reading session. On other days, now and then, you may feel totally dry after the reading session. No need to be upset about these variations. They are very normal. It depends much on our physical, mental and spiritual condition during those times.
- In connection to this it should also be understood that some portions that really had an impact on you last time you read it may not have the same impact during the current reading and vice versa. This is also a normal occurrence.
- Sometimes you may read the Bible, but be unable to finish all the sections you wanted to read that day according to the reading plan that you are following. No need to get discouraged at all. Trusting God, continue your reading the next day. Even if you do not reach your goal by the end of the year, to your amazement you will find that you have finished reading the Scriptures far more times than you could have done otherwise!
Pray for a moment before you start reading the Bible:
- For understanding well the portion being read.
- For receiving the guidance needed for that day.
- For experiencing the presence of God while reading.
You can use the prayer of the psalmist: ``Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law'' (Psalm 119:18).
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