How To Read the Bible for Courage and Wisdom
In his book, “Courage: Winning Life's Toughest Battles,” Edwin Cole recommends reading the Psalms and Proverbs to gain courage and wisdom. He suggests reading a chapter in Proverbs first thing in the morning and a chapter in Psalms at the end of the day. I followed a similar plan for the past 25 years. Currently, I read in both Psalms and Proverbs each day, usually first thing in the morning.
Why Proverbs for Wisdom?Proverbs is all about wisdom. It even says so in Proverbs 1:1,2 “The proverbs of Solomon son of David, king of Israel: for attaining wisdom and discipline; . . . “ A Proverbs reading plan is easy. One chapter a day. What ever day of the month it is, thats the chapter I read. Today is the 23rd. I read Proverbs 23. Tomorrow I will read Proverbs 24, and so on. A Proverbs reading plan is easy. One chapter a day and I can read through the entire book each month.
Why Psalms for Courage?Psalms is more difficult. I wondered why Cole recommended Psalms for gaining courage. Then God reminded me of Joshua 1:9, “Have not I commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” The key to courage is remembering that the LORD my God is with me! Whether David or one of the other Psalmists is writing, it is evident that they are experiencing the nearness of God. Reading the Psalms reminds me that the LORD my God is near me. And having God with me should be the source of my courage. Reading the Psalms helps me gain courage. A Psalms reading plan it not too difficult. I read five chapters today. Today is the 23rd. I read the chapter corresponding to the day of the month. So I read the 23rd Psalm. Then I add 30, and read chapter 53. Then 30 more. Then 30 more. Then 30 more. Today, I read Psalm 23, 53, 83, 113, and 143. There are 150 Psalms. Five chapters each day and I can read through the entire Psalms each month. Another plan I have tired is reading one chapter a day. This is not a bad plan either. It allows me to read through the Psalms twice a year. And it allows me an entire month to read Psalm 119. That plan looks like this.
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Posted on June 23, 2008 |
