By Pastor Dave
As we approach the beginning of a new year, I would encourage you to commit to reading through the Bible in one year. I would also encourage you to read a different translation this year. Actually, I would encourage you to read through a different translation every year. “Why?” you ask. Because each translation has strengths and weaknesses. Don’t take this the wrong way; the Word of God is perfect with no weaknesses or mistakes. However the translations of the Word can have weaknesses and, some times, a poor translation of words. Reading different translations allows you to get a broader understanding of what the Word is saying. Some translations are easier to read and understand as they use language we can more easily understand. Yes, there are some translations that are not good, I get that. But there are many others that are very good.
Why read through in a year and why different translations? You will become familiar with the the Word of God and have a deeper understanding of the Bible. When you know the truth, you can recognize a lie. When you know the Word of God, you can stand against the word of the devil. The devil wants to deceive you and get you to have wrong thinking about God. If you read, study and think on the Word of God, you can stand against the devil.
Romans 10:17 (NKJ) So then faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God. Reading the bible will build up your faith.
John 8:32 (NKJ) And you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free. When you know the truth of the word, you will be free from the bondage of sin and the power of the devil.
2 Timothy 2:15 (NKJ) Be diligent to present yourself approved to God a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. When you know what the Bible is saying, you can rightly handle the Word of God. If you don’t read it, you wont know it and you can not properly handle it.
I challenge you to read through the Bible in 2026.