How to Build a Consistent Bible Study Routine - Making Daily Scripture Reading a Habit
Do you struggle with staying consistent in Bible study? You’re not alone! Life gets busy, and it can be hard to set aside time for daily scripture reading. But building a consistent Bible study routine doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right approach, you can make it a natural part of your day. Here are some practical tips to help you develop a habit of studying God’s Word consistently.
Set a Specific Time to Study the Word Daily
Fix a dedicated time each day to read and study the Bible. Having a set time helps you build a regular routine and stay consistent. This could be in the morning, at night, or any other time that works best for you. The key is to choose a time that aligns with your schedule and allows you to be consistent—there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.
Personally, I prefer reading my Bible in the morning, but I sometimes struggle with consistency. There are days I wake up late and rush through my study or skip it altogether. Lately, I’ve considered switching my routine to night time, just before bed, as part of my evening prayers. I find this may work better since I don’t have to be anywhere, allowing me to spend more time in the Word.
For you, it could mean waking up earlier if you prefer mornings, reading your Bible during lunch breaks (if you can find a quiet spot), or studying after work. Do what works best for you, and don’t be afraid to adjust your routine if needed. Life changes, and so can your schedule, what matters is finding a rhythm that helps you remain consistent.
Determine in Advance How Long You Want to Spend in the Word
Decide ahead of time how long you want to dedicate to Bible study. Is it 15 minutes, 30 minutes, or even two hours? Whatever you choose, make it intentional.
One of the biggest reasons people struggle with consistency is the belief that they need long hours for Bible study. The truth is, when forming a habit, you have to start somewhere. If you only have 15 minutes, use them well. God would rather have you spend a meaningful 15 minutes with Him than none at all.
As you build the habit, you can gradually increase your study time. Also, remove distractions to ensure you have quality time in His presence.
I also encourage setting aside a longer period at least once a week to go deeper into God’s Word. This could be on weekends or your day off.
Listen to an Audio Bible
Listening to an audio Bible is a great option when you’re busy or on the move. It allows you to stay consistent in receiving God’s Word even on days when sitting down with a physical Bible isn’t feasible.
Join a Bible Study Plan
Following a structured Bible study plan helps you stay consistent and accountable. A guided plan removes the guesswork by showing you what scriptures to study each day while helping you grow in specific spiritual areas.
Choose plans that align with your faith journey and personal growth. And once you finish one plan, start another to maintain consistency.
Join a Bible Study Group
Being part of a Bible study group keeps you accountable and disciplined. Surrounding yourself with like-minded believers allows you to share your spiritual journey, encourage one another, and grow together.
As Proverbs 27:17 says, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”
Pair It with an Existing Habit
If you’ve ever read about habit formation, you may have come across the concept of habit stacking. This method involves attaching a new habit to an already established one, making it easier to build consistency.
For example, you could:
- Read your Bible while having breakfast.
- Listen to an audio Bible during your daily commute.
- Study scripture right after your evening walk.
Pairing Bible study with an existing habit makes it a natural part of your daily routine.
Helpful Tips to Stay Consistent:
Don’t strive for perfection. Missing a day or two won’t derail your progress. The key is to get back on track and keep going.
Create a peaceful atmosphere. Play soft Christian lofi music in the background, light a candle, or set a cozy ambiance to make your time with God special.
Shift your mindset. Instead of viewing Bible study as just another task on your to-do list, cultivate a genuine hunger for God’s Word. Affirm to yourself how eager you are to know Him, and over time, this desire will deepen.
The key is to just start. As you stay consistent, studying the Bible will become a natural and fulfilling part of your daily life.
Now, I’d love to hear from you! What has helped you stay consistent in your Bible study? Do you have a preferred time or routine? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
