Have you ever heard the saying, “Practice makes perfect?” Maybe you have tried eating really healthy before. And if you have, you know that the effects don’t happen overnight, but have to be continued for a lasting effect. It’s the same with reading God’s Word. As Christians, it is important for us develop a daily pattern of prayer and Bible study. Then we will see the effects of following God’s word throughout our whole lives. The apostle Peter said in 2 Peter 3:18 that we “should grow in the grace and the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” Spiritual growth, just like physical growth, requires a source of nutrition. Jesus said He is the “living bread that came down from heaven” (John 6:51) and that whoever “eats this bread will live forever” (John 6:58). So in order for us to receive the benefits of our relationship with God, we have to spend time every day with Him in His word to grow in our faith.

Set aside time each day

It doesn’t have to be a long period, but it helps if the time is consistent, early in the morning before work, for example. Pray before you read; ask the Holy Spirit to be your teacher. Have some paper and a pencil: Write down what you are learning and read back over your notes as a reminder of what the Spirit is teaching you. Put what you read into practice. If you read this morning about loving your enemies, try being kind to those who are mean to you that day.

"For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope." Romans 15:4

"And how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus." 2 Timothy 3:15

A Great Place to Start

The most important step is to get started. A great place to start is in the book of John. Begin by reading the entire book just as you would read a letter from a good friend. After that, go back to the beginning and read one chapter a day for the next 21 days. Your Online Missionary is available to help with any questions that you may have as you read. Send them an email anytime, and don’t forget to share with them the things God is teaching you and the joy that comes from a growing relationship with Him. As you read, you will learn so much about Jesus, and God will speak to you.

"Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." Ephesians 6:17

Day 16: Joining a Family