a new year awaits…
Reading through the Bible in a year is a unique adventure, full of surprises and insights, even for those who aren't approaching it from a place of faith. A while back, I read a book called Moonwalking with Einstein, and it talked about how doing new things can make time feel like it slows down. That idea inspired me to try something new every Sunday last year, though I only lasted until March—it was hard to keep coming up with new ideas! But it made me realize how habits and routines can make life rush by, and I wanted to find ways to keep life interesting.
A couple of years ago, I started following a Bible reading plan. I'm not a Christian, but I'm fascinated by religions and wanted to better understand the worldview of many of my friends. I read through the entire Bible in eight months, and it was both amazing and intriguing. Last year, I tried to do it again with my husband, but we struggled to stay consistent and eventually stopped. This time, I want to try again, and I'm planning to hold myself accountable by writing about the experience every day.
Instead of reading from cover to cover, I want to invite you to try something a bit different—reading the Bible in chronological order. This approach allows you to experience the story of the Bible as it unfolds historically, offering a fresh perspective on the events and the people who lived through them. By following the timeline of the biblical narrative, you can better understand how the story develops over time and how each book connects to the others.
To set you up for success, here are a few things to keep in mind as you read through the Bible in chronological order:
Understand the Context: The Bible was written across thousands of years by many different voices. Knowing a bit about the historical and cultural background of what you're reading can bring the stories to life. Consider using a study Bible or a commentary for insights into the times and customs of each narrative. Understanding the context can help you see the human side of these ancient texts.
Be Open to Questions: There will be moments when you encounter passages that feel confusing or even troubling. Instead of pushing those feelings away, let them be an invitation to explore further. Ask questions, take notes, and allow yourself to wonder. Sometimes, the questions themselves are more valuable than immediate answers.
Connect the Dots: One of the joys of reading in chronological order is seeing how everything fits together. Pay attention to recurring themes like human struggle, redemption, and community. Notice the connections between different books and stories. It’s like piecing together a puzzle—each part adds to the bigger picture, and the more you read, the more the pieces start to click into place.
For those interested, I've linked a few of my recommended Bibles below that are well-suited for a chronological reading plan. Whether you're looking for a detailed study Bible or something more straightforward, these options can help support you on your journey (these are affiliate links, just a few coins to keep this site running):
She Reads Truth (CSB translation)
I hope this journey through the Bible in chronological order will be both thought-provoking and enriching for you. I’d love to hear your thoughts and questions as you read along—let’s make this a conversation!