Building a routine

Time slips through your hands, the day is over in no time. Your work, children, studies or church demands attention. Or maybe all of them. In the evening, you realize that it hasn't happened again: a quiet moment to read the Bible. How do you get into a routine of Bible reading? Seven tips to get you started.

1. Link it to something you are already doing

Routine is not created by willpower, but is given space by proper association. Read your Bible after your coffee, before bed, or during your lunch break. By connecting it to something you do anyway, it is more likely to become a regular part of your day. For example, “First coffee, then one chapter.” “Before I grab my phone, I read one Psalm.”

2. Choose a set time (and keep it realistic)
Start with 5 to 10 minutes a day. Rather short but faithful, than long and only very occasionally. If necessary, put a reminder in your calendar, or phone, or hang a bill in a place you look at regularly, such as on the refrigerator.

3. Make it easy to get started
Put your Bible open in a place where you are often (nightstand, kitchen table). Make a reading schedule for yourself (or download a reading plan) so you don't have to search or waste time on: “what shall I read today?” Start with accessible books such as Markus, for example.

4. Do it together
A friend, partner or Bible group can help. You can app each other: “What appealed to you today?” Persevering together is easier than alone.

5. Focus on relationship, not performance
The goal is not “read every day,” but: give space to God every day. Sometimes you read a lot, sometimes one verse, and that's okay. Think of it as walking with God together, not as a schedule to check off.

6. Evaluate and grow slowly
After a few weeks, you can ask yourself:What helps me read? What distracts me? Do I need to change the time or place? Routine is something that grows, not something you “have” in one day.