Making Time for What Matters: How to Prioritize Bible Reading in a Busy Life

Let’s be honest—life is full. Between work, family, errands, and the random chaos that sneaks in, finding time to breathe can feel like a luxury, let alone finding quiet time to read the Bible.

But here’s the thing: our souls crave connection with God. And one of the most beautiful ways He speaks to us is through His Word. The Bible isn’t just a book—it’s life, comfort, truth, and guidance all wrapped into one.

So why is it so hard to make time for it?

The Importance of Bible Reading

Reading the Bible isn’t just a “good Christian thing to do.” It’s foundational to growing in our faith, knowing God more deeply, and learning how to walk out His will in our everyday lives.

Here’s what regular Bible reading does for us:

• Centers our hearts – In a noisy world, God’s Word brings peace and clarity.

• Builds spiritual strength – Just like our bodies need food, our spirits need Scripture.

• Helps us recognize God’s voice – The more we read His Word, the more we understand how He speaks.

• Equips us for life’s battles – Whether we’re facing anxiety, temptation, or a difficult season, the Bible arms us with truth.

So how do we move from wanting to read the Bible more to actually doing it?

5 Practical Tips for Making Time to Read the Bible

1. Start Small and Keep It SimpleYou don’t need an hour and a cup of herbal tea in a sun-drenched nook (though that does sound nice). Start with five minutes. One Psalm. A single chapter. A devotional with Scripture included. The key is consistency, not quantity.

2. Pair It with a Habit You Already HaveDo you drink coffee every morning? Leave your Bible on the counter and open it while your coffee brews. Do you scroll your phone before bed? Try switching that for a Bible app or audio version of Scripture. Connect it with something you already do, and it becomes easier.

3. Create a "Sacred Space"This doesn’t need to be fancy—a chair, a corner, a quiet spot in the car while waiting to pick up the kids. Let that space be your little sanctuary where you meet with God.

4. Use a Reading PlanThe Bible can feel overwhelming. A reading plan gives you a roadmap and helps you stay focused. Whether it’s the Bible in a year or a 30-day topical plan, having direction can be a game changer.

5. Give Yourself Grace, Not GuiltLife will happen. You’ll miss days. You might go a week or more without cracking open your Bible—and that doesn’t make you a bad Christian. God is not measuring your spiritual worth by your Bible-reading streak. He simply wants your heart. Just come back. Again and again.

   
   

Final Thoughts

Spending time in God’s Word isn’t about adding another thing to your to-do list—it’s about making space for the One who gives you rest, peace, and purpose. The more time we spend in Scripture, the more rooted we become in truth that sustains us through everything life throws our way.

You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be willing.

So maybe today, start small. Open your Bible. Whisper a prayer. Invite God in.

He’s always ready to meet you there.