Hey Woodlands,
I get that the Bible is God’s Word, and that it’s written for us and it’s important for me to read it and that it’s a privilege that we have it. I’ve heard that for a long time, and I guess I believe it. But every time I open the Bible to read it, I’m bored out of my mind. I don’t get it, it seems completely unrelated to my life, and it’s confusing. So I feel like I’m a bad Christian or I’m being asked to do something that just doesn’t work for me. What should I do?
– Bored by the Bible
It’s totally okay to feel that way. You’re not a bad Christian for being honest. God loves you no matter what. It’s Jesus who makes you a good Christian, not how much you love reading the Bible.
That said, the Bible is our source of truth, and a priceless gift that helps us learn and grow – so let’s not ignore it! Here are a few ideas:
First, soak up those Bible teachings from church. And don’t forget that there are a bunch of great Bible teachers online, too. For a long time, sermons were the main way people learned from the Bible. You’re getting Bible teaching just by going to church!
Second, try reading the Bible with friends. Over and over again in Bible 101 we’ve seen the power of reading together. Find some friends and ask if they want to read together and talk about it. It doesn’t have to be a super formal time – just reading the text together and asking questions can be really rich.
Finally, pray that God will help you love His Word. God loves to teach His children, and He does so mainly through His Word, so He’ll grow that love in you. Make it a priority to pray for this, and watch how God changes your heart.
Keep following Jesus, and if you’d like to chat more – reach out!
– Dave Bondeson, Teaching and Family Pastor