Read the Bible Slowly and Carefully

Haste makes waste of  devotional  Bible reading. Skim the passage, check it off the “to do” list, and done. On to the next task. This can’t be good. We need to slow down, read carefully, and let the word of God sink into our hearts.

Two practices help prevent wasteful haste: First, read the Bible aloud. I understand that earlier generations of English-speaking readers commonly did this, even when reading alone.

Second, have someone read the Bible to you. I recommend using the English Standard Version website. Enter the verses you wish to hear and click “listen.” Not only will you hear a carefully prepared reading of the text, you will also learn how to pronounce difficult names and places. It’s a real treat to hear someone read the Bible well.