Most important read

With all of the books that I read in 2007, I would be remiss if not mentioning the most important book that I read and continue to read. Virtually every day I read two, three or four chapters of the Bible. I'm not writing this to sound overly spiritual. The truth of the matter is that as enjoyable as many books are and as helpful as many books have been, all pale in comparison to the life transformation that reading God's Word brings.

I am absolutely convinced that the Word of God is living and active. I am convinced that God speaks into my heart as I read His revelation. I am convinced that no other book is as important as the Bible.

So, in this new year, if you haven't made regular Bible reading a practice, let me encourage you to do so.

Begin with the book of John in the New Testament. From there perhaps move to First, Second and Third John. You don't have to begin your reading in Genesis and try to read from cover to cover. Many people have tried that approach (and some are successful) but most bog down and quit when they get to Leviticus or Numbers.

Over the past many years it has been my practice to read the New Testament twice in one year and then to read the Old Testament the next. The Bible is, by far, my most important read.