The Man Who Read the Bible Over 1000 Times | The 700 Club

Introduction

This tutorial explores the journey of Shelvie, who felt called to a life of ministry and needed a deep understanding of the Bible. By committing to read the entire Bible over 1,000 times, he transformed his spiritual life and equipped himself for his calling. This guide will help you understand how to deepen your biblical knowledge and strengthen your faith through committed reading and study.

Step 1: Establish a Purpose for Reading the Bible

• Define your motivation: Understand why you want to read the Bible. This could be for personal growth, spiritual understanding, or preparation for ministry.
• Set clear goals: Decide how many times you aim to read the Bible in a year or over a specific period. Shelvie aimed for an extensive commitment, which drove him to read daily.

Step 2: Create a Reading Plan

• Choose a translation: Select a Bible translation that you find easy to understand. Popular options include the NIV, ESV, and NLT.
• Set a reading schedule: Allocate specific times each day for reading, making it a non-negotiable part of your routine.
• Use a reading guide or plan: Consider using a structured plan that covers the entire Bible in a year or breaks it down into manageable daily readings.

Step 3: Engage with the Text

• Take notes: As you read, jot down thoughts, reflections, and questions. This practice will enhance understanding and retention.
• Highlight key verses: Use a highlighter or underline passages that resonate with you. This can help you revisit important lessons later.
• Pray for understanding: Before and after your reading sessions, pray for insight and clarity. This spiritual practice can deepen your comprehension.

Step 4: Join a Community

• Find a study group: Engaging with others who share your goal can provide support and motivation. Look for local church groups or online communities.
• Share insights: Discuss what you've learned with friends or family. Teaching others can reinforce your own understanding.

Step 5: Reflect and Apply

• Personal application: After each reading session, think about how the passages apply to your life. This could involve making changes in your behavior or mindset.
• Journal your journey: Keep a journal documenting your thoughts, questions, and experiences as you read. This can be a valuable resource for future reflection.

Conclusion

Reading the Bible extensively can significantly enhance your spiritual journey and understanding of faith. By establishing a purpose, creating a structured plan, engaging deeply with the text, finding community support, and reflecting on your readings, you can cultivate a lifelong relationship with the Scriptures. Whether you're new to the faith or looking to deepen your ministry, these steps can provide a solid foundation for your biblical journey. Start today, and consider sharing your experiences with others as you grow in your faith.