If you haven't settled into a routine with your Bible yet, reflect on what might be standing in your way. Perhaps you feel distracted by screen time or busy with your retirement activities. For some people, knowing where to start with the Bible can interfere. Recognizing what's getting in your way makes it easier to find solutions.
With so many styles and types of Bibles available, it might take some time to find the one that speaks to you. Spend time perusing different Bible versions to find the one you connect with. You might try a study Bible, reference Bible, devotional Bible or chronological Bible to see if one of those types will work better for you.
If you have diminished eyesight, audio Bibles let you listen to God's word. You're still receiving the message, and it could be a more useful format for you. Bible apps offer another alternative to traditional print Bibles.
Your retirement years are often more flexible when it comes to your schedule. That gives you a lot more freedom, but it might also mean you need to schedule the activities you want to do. Consider which time of day you're most prepared to receive God's word. Many people choose to read the Bible in the morning to start the day in a faithful mindset. Making it a natural part of your routine helps you stick with it each day.
Having a comfortable, dedicated spot for reading your Bible can also help you fall into a routine. If you like to take notes as you read, choose a table or desk area in your assisted living apartment. You can keep your notebook and Bible in the area so it's easily accessible. Some people prefer to curl up in a comfortable chair. Keep your Bible and a cozy throw blanket close to have it ready.
Praying over your Bible-reading habit can help you embrace the idea. Before you read your Bible, pray that God gives you the hunger to read his word and the strength to stick with your Bible routine. You can also incorporate verses you read into your prayers to strengthen both habits.
If you're just starting with a Bible-reading routine, gradually moving into the practice can make it easier to handle. Set aside just a few minutes each day to read one or two verses when you're starting. The idea is to make it a familiar, daily activity, even if it's quick. Then, read larger passages and incorporate more reflection and study to make it meaningful.
Bible study groups don't typically meet every day, but they can still help you get into a routine. Talking about the passages with others helps you better understand the content. This can make you more comfortable reading additional passages on your own.
Whether you attend an online church or go in person, the weekly sermon can serve as inspiration for your Bible-reading routine. Note the verses used in the sermon so you can read more of the surrounding passages on your own. This can be particularly useful if you find the verses meaningful to you. It's a way to go deeper with the messages you receive each week at church while spending more time with your Bible.
Get in the habit of sharing what you read in the Bible with other people. Those regular conversations might encourage you to read your Bible regularly so you have new content to share. Talking about the Bible is a great way to create a legacy of faith with your loved ones. It can also give you new passages to focus on based on what others share with you.
Keeping track of what you read in the Bible can help you stick with your routine. For a simple tracking method, make a check on your calendar every day that you read your Bible. This becomes a simple record and can motivate you to read every day. You can also download a Bible-tracking app that helps you record your progress in reading the Bible.
Another option is to journal as you read the Bible. This becomes a log of your reading and helps you reflect more on the messages from those passages. You can write your thoughts on what you read and jot down additional questions or future reading you want to do based on what you read.
