Reading the Bible can feel a bit like eating kale: You know it’s good for you, it’s packed with nutrients… but if you don’t prepare it the right way for you, you’ll avoid eating it.
I like how Lacey makes kale chips in the oven — they are delicious and filling. Like kale, Scripture isn’t a one-recipe deal. Whether you sauté it, blend it, or drown it in ranch (spiritually speaking), there are several ways to take it that can fit your life and personality.
Here are three solid, Spirit-led options to help Scripture become a consistent part of your life — not just a you have to choke down because it’s healthy:
1. Eye Reading – Pick a Translation That Speaks to You
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” – Psalm 119.105
Some people love the precise, word-for-word approach of the NASB (https://www.bible.com/bible/100/JHN.1.NASB1995) or ESV (https://www.bible.com/bible/59/JHN.1.ESV) . Others are refreshed by the readability of NLT (https://www.bible.com/bible/116/JHN.1.NLT) or the poetic flow of The Passion Translation (https://www.bible.com/bible/1849/JHN.1.TPT) . Even The Message (https://www.bible.com/bible/97/JHN.1.MSG) can open up new understanding in a fresh way.
2. Audio Reading – Listen While You Live
“Faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” – Romans 10.17
Whether you’re driving, walking, or doing dishes, the Bible App (https://www.bible.com/) offers free, high-quality audio Bibles you can play while on the go. You don’t have to carve out a monastery moment to take in the Word — just hit play.
3. Watch It – Let Scripture Come to Life Visually
“These have been written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God…” – John 20:31
Love stories and visuals? Try The Chosen (https://www.thechosen.tv/en-us) to see the life of Jesus unfold. Want biblical depth and animation? The Bible Project (https://bibleproject.com/) is packed with short, creative, gospel-rich videos. Or watch sweeping drama through The Bible miniseries (https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B00BVYL102/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r) and AD (https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B00V4JJ0E8/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r) (the rest of the New Testament).
—
The Scriptures are the nutrients for our souls. But it’s even better when we take it in the way God uniquely designed each of us to receive it. What’s one “kale recipe” (reading, listening, or watching Scripture) that you can try this week to feed your soul in a way that sticks?
Let’s not just survive on spiritual snacks — let’s feast.
God bless —
Nathan
