This morning I began a new reading plan through the Bible, a chronological reading.  My Bible readings in the past have mostly been reading from beginning to end or to read a bit of the Old Testament, a bit from the New Testament, a Psalm selection and portion from Proverbs.  While these have always been fruitful, I wanted to embark on a new plan.  The chronological reading will help me keep the events and books of the Bible in their historical sequence.

As I read each day, I want to do more than read.  I need to know what God’s Word says in order to deepen my relationship with the God of the universe who loves me and reveals Himself to me.  God has proven His love in myriad ways, primarily through sending His Son, Jesus, as the sacrifice for our (my) sin.  I need a closer, deeper, more intimate relationship with this God.  What amazing love!

Join me on this reading journey.  You may want to use a chronological reading plan, read only the New Testament, read one chapter a day, or some other portion of God’s Word.  The encouragement is to dig deeply into God’s Word and allow God’s Word to dig deeply into you.

On most days that I read, I will jot down a few notes, observations, and insights I have gleaned from that day’s readings.  Writing it down will help me think more deeply.  Writing it down where others can see it will keep me humble and accountable.

Genesis 1-3 reminds me of the power of our Creator God and His overwhelming love for His creation.  Yet when His creation – Adam & Eve – chose disobedience and the consequences of their sin, God intervened to cover their shame and restore the relationship.

God never overlooks our sin or pretends it is inconsequential nor does He tell us we are worthless or without hope.  Instead, His great love compels Him to intervene in our lives at the point of our deepest failures and restore us to Himself.  His grace and mercy win over sin as we trust in Him.

Have a blessed day and a wonderful 2012!

Doug