March 12th, 2010 | 
Author: 
Tell us about a time when God spoke to you vividly and personally through the Bible.
When I was about 15, I was looking for a verse in the book of Joshua, which actually comes in the last chapter, but the Lord spoke to me through Joshua 1:7-8 – and called me to study theology. This has been my life’s work, and it all started by reading the Bible.
In recent years what has helped to keep the Bible fresh for you?
Two things: reading it every day with other people in college chapel or small group and reading and pondering it in depth in a monthly quiet day or yearly retreat.
What does your regular practice of Bible reading look like?
As well as the things mentioned above, I read the scriptures in private times of quiet daily and on other occasions take the chance to study it in depth, with good commentaries.
What would you say to a Christian who is struggling to read the Bible?
I’d say:
- 1. Ask God to help you
- 2. Get a good translation
- 3. Try reading in different ways – use the same psalm every day for a week and perhaps learn it off by heart. If you read short passages usually, give yourself a longer passage – why not read the whole of the book of Ruth, for instance, at once?
- 4. Ask other people to help you
- 5. Find a good set of Bible reading notes
- 6. Focus on the parts you find easiest to understand and ask God to lead you to other more difficult passages when you are ready.
What is your prayer for the Biblefresh initiative?
I am praying the Bible may be read throughout the church, so all Christians can help their neighbours who are seeking faith, to find Jesus.
Christina Baxter is Principal of St John’s College, Nottingham.
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