When it comes to daily Bible reading, one of the most common questions people ask is: How long should my daily Bible reading take? With busy schedules, it can be challenging to figure out the right amount of time to spend in the Word each day. Whether you're a busy mom, a working professional, or just someone looking to deepen your understanding of God's Word, knowing how much time to dedicate to Bible reading can help you stay consistent.
In this blog post, I'll give some of my thoughts and advice, but know that there is no one size fits all! Everyone will have a different capacity in their season, and the goal here is to spend regular time with Jesus, even if it's short and sweet.
Let's dive in!
How to Time Your Bible Reading
1. Start Small and Build Gradually
For many, starting small is key to consistency. If you're just beginning to develop a daily Bible reading habit, aim for 10 to 15 minutes a day. This might seem like a small amount of time, but consistency over time is what really makes a difference. You can always build up your reading time as you grow more comfortable with the rhythm.
2. Consider Your Schedule
Your daily Bible reading time will depend on your personal schedule. For a busy mom, it might be as little as 10 minutes while the kids are napping or before everyone wakes up in the morning. For others, 30 minutes or more may fit nicely. The key is to set aside time that works for you—whether it's early in the morning, during lunch breaks, or before bed.
3. Focus on Quality, Not Quantity
It’s easy to feel pressured to read long passages, but Bible reading is not a race. Instead of rushing through chapters, focus on understanding what you're reading. Reflect on the verses, write down your thoughts, do some research when you're able, and pray. Some days, you may read just a few verses but spend a lot of time meditating on them. Other days, you might read an entire chapter (or more!)
4. The 20-Minute Rule
If you’re looking for a general guideline, a good benchmark for daily Bible reading is about 20 minutes. This gives you enough time to read a passage, reflect on its meaning, and apply it to your life. If you follow a Bible reading plan, many plans recommend reading one or two chapters each day, which typically takes about 20 minutes, depending on your reading speed.
5. Consistency Over Duration
While some may feel that 30 minutes or more is ideal, consistency is more important than duration. The habit of reading the Bible every day will have a greater spiritual impact than simply reading for longer periods when you have more time (though I definitely recommend both!). Aim to make Bible reading a non-negotiable part of your routine, even if it’s just for 10 minutes a day.
Make Daily Bible Reading a Priority
If you're struggling to find time for daily Bible reading, here are a few tips to make it a priority:
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Use a Bible Reading Plan: A plan can keep you on track and ensure you're reading consistently. Whether you choose a thematic plan, a chronological plan, or a devotional, following a structured approach can help you make the most of your Bible reading time.
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Set a Regular Time: Schedule your Bible reading at the same time every day. Whether it’s early in the morning before your day starts, during your lunch break, or before bed, having a set time will make it easier to build a lasting habit.
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Use a Bible App: For those on the go, a Bible app can help you read or listen to Scripture during commutes, while waiting in line, or even while doing household chores.
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Involve Your Family: If you're a mom, include your children in Bible reading! You can read together in the morning or evening (though I find that morning works best generally for children). Make Bible reading a normal part of life in your home!
It’s About the Heart, Not the Clock
Ultimately, how long your daily Bible reading should take depends on your schedule, your goals, and your heart. There’s no perfect length of time, but striving for consistency, quality, and reflection will ensure that your daily Bible reading is fruitful. Whether it's 10 minutes or 2 hours, the goal is to immerse yourself in God’s Word daily and allow it to shape your life.
Take time for God’s Word today—only good things will result!
