I’m an impatient reader.
It’s a curious weakness, and it doesn’t matter much what kind of material I’m reading. I might begin with good intentions, but as soon as I start reading I find myself looking for the end.
This bad habit makes studying difficult. I blast through the words, but often realize I’ve little idea what I just read. I hate to think about how much scripture I’ve “read” without really digesting its meaning.
So last week I decided to try something different. I opened the book of 1 John and tried to avoid reading through chapter 1 from beginning to end. Instead, I just looked at the sentences until I got one main idea or impression I could summarize and record.
The next day I returned to the same chapter and repeated the process. No agenda or timetable—I just figured I’d keep scanning those same phrases until I didn’t see anything new. Then I figured I’d move to Chapter 2 and just see what happens.
I’m recording my conclusions on Twitter when I come up with something. That’s the other thing–I spend a few minutes and if nothing comes that day, it’s okay. If you want to see the results, follow me: @Rich_Dixon
Here’s what I’ve seen so far:
- We’re told to “walk in the light.” Maybe this is a good day to stop choosing darkness.
- What would change if we spent more time simply doing the truth we know?
- Easy to repeat someone else’s words. Takes guts to say, “This is my experience and what I’ve learned.”
- I love God’s economy. Claim you’re free and you’re trapped. Acknowledge your sin and you’re free.
- I can’t see much difference between knowing Jesus and doing the stuff Jesus said.
I keep thinking that these words came from a man who walked with Jesus, sat around a campfire with Him, and shared some of His most private moments. I want to do more than just read through the words.
I want to hear what he’s saying to me across all these centuries.
Please leave a comment here.
Want to receive free updates?
Click below to get Bouncing Back
delivered directly to your inbox.
