Priority One: Day One

The Bible is one of those books that most people own—but few people actually read. At least, not regularly.

Maybe you’ve always wanted to read the Bible—the whole thing—whether you’re a Christ follower or just someone who’s exploring spiritual matters. Well, that’s a good resolution to make. And this is the time of year—first week in January—to make it.

Here’s why I say that reading the Bible is a good resolution to make. Several years ago, a survey was conducted in over a thousand, healthy, vibrant churches. People were asked to identify the #1 catalyst behind their personal spiritual growth. Was it listening to their pastor’s sermons (an obvious choice)? Serving the poor? Joining a small group? Engaging in prayer?

The #1 catalyst behind their personal spiritual growth turned out to be—are you ready for this—daily reading and reflecting on the Bible.

So the most important thing you can do in 2015 (if you want to grow spiritually) is to pick up a Bible each day and read it.

And here’s a helpful footnote to this point: I read an online article this past week from Forbes magazine. According to the article—if you’re making resolutions this time of year, the fewer resolutions you make the better. Why? Well, people who make lots of resolutions for their lives—typically fail to meet any of them. It’s far better to focus on a just a few, extremely important resolutions.

I want to encourage you to put reading the Bible on your short list. In fact, I want to encourage you to make it #1. Today’s sermon—which is a stand alone—is entitled: Priority One, Day One.

Turn with me to Psalm 19.

Get the Worship Playlist for this weekend.