BIY 2016, Jan 7

Good morning!

As we're reading, here are some tips and suggestions to aid you in your reading and study in scripture:

• Pray. God wants us to read and understand His Word. He provides us with the Holy Spirit and will guide us in understanding His Word. Ask Him to make clear to you any verses or selections that confuse, intimidate, or upset you. 
• Use free, online resources to help you understand the culture and the time period about which we're reading. It's easy to look at scripture through our Western lens and perspective. Some parts of the Bible will make more sense if we read them understanding the culture of those people and of their time. (Suggestions of free, online resources: YouVersion [a free app download and a free website. It can "read" you selections of scripture for those hard-to-pronouce names.] Also, Blue Letter Bible is also a free website and downloadable app. Blue Letter Bible can give the definition of the original text to get a fuller understanding as well as offer a concordance and commentary from various scholars. 
• Journal. writing down what we're thinking as we read can often lend to clarity by taking our jumbled thoughts and placing them down on paper. Write prayer requests and praise reports as well to watch how God unfolds and shows up in your life. 
• Have conversation. Share what you're reading with others and gather their perspective. Great conversations about scripture can lead to deeper understanding and a deeper relationship with others. 
• Dig in! The best way to get started in reading the Bible is to get started! We're reading chronologically, but there is no "wrong" place to start in scripture. Pray for guidance and the Lord will lead you. 

Jan 7 Reading: Gensis 15-17

Feel free to comment "done" after finishing today's reading. Chime in with questions and comments as well!