I love creating and following Bible reading plans. They provide a sense of structure and help set the pace for exploring Scripture. Over the years, I’ve also realized that reading the Bible is even more meaningful and enjoyable when done with others. Sharing conversations about what we’re learning deepens our understanding and creates a sense of community.
Let’s start the year with a big-frame question: Who is God? This will be the focus of our reading in the month of January. You will see the pattern in these stories: God shows up among the people, God reveals something about the divine nature or God’s vision for how people should proceed in their …
Genesis 1 – What does this chapter reveal about God’s power and creativity? God decides to create our world entirely out of God’s own will. It is not forced, accidental, or inevitable—it happens simply because God wants it to. I imagine God truly enjoying this DIY project, pausing after each step to admire the work, …
Genesis 12 – Why do you think God chose Abraham? What does this teach us about God’s plans and promises? Why Abraham? I wrestle with this question often. The chapter begins with God’s promise and call. Abraham hears it and moves. Moving is hard; moving with family is even harder. Now imagine moving in the …
Exodus 3 – What does God’s name, “I AM,” tell you about the Divine nature? Moses had established a good life for himself and his family. But then he encountered God and received a life-altering call: to return to the very place he had fled, to the people he had left behind. Everything in Moses’ …
Joshua 24 – What does it mean to serve the Lord “in sincerity and faithfulness”? The final chapter of Joshua serves as a powerful summary of God’s long and faithful relationship with His people, a story that stretches back to Terah, the father of Abraham. While the audience was undoubtedly familiar with this history, Joshua …
Exodus 20 – How do the Ten Commandments reflect God’s character? We all know that some parts of the Bible are more engaging than others. I have a hard time connecting with the laws of any kind, because they are ancient and reflect the realities and values of a society so different from ours. Often, …
Deuteronomy 6 – What does it mean to love God with all your heart, soul, and strength? Loving God takes different shapes and forms throughout the seasons of our life. Sometimes, it feels comforting—a source of strength that grounds us. Loving God can provide a sense of belonging within the community of faith, guidance for …
1 Samuel 16 – How does God’s focus on the heart (rather than appearances) challenge you? I find myself at a point in life where I’ve experienced both sides of mentorship. I’ve been blessed with strong mentors who built me up, supported me, guided me, believed in me, and saw potential in me that took …
Psalm 23 – How does God’s role as Shepherd provide comfort and assurance in your life? UPDATE: A few days have passed since I wrote it. And I have just stumbled on this interpretation of Psalm 23. And it has left me uprooted and confronted with all the privileges and safeguards that I take for …
Micah 6 – How does living this way deepen your relationship with God and your community? Part 1Today, I am attending an interfaith service in honor of MLK at Carter Metropolitan CME Church. I’ve been looking forward to this service all week. This morning’s Bible reading was Micah 6. As I read it, I forced …