After years of being involved in preparing a Bible reading plan for our church, the following are my currently desired “core characteristics” for a plan.
- 5 days a week (Weekdays) – This allows catch-up on the weekends.
- 2 chapters a day – Feels manageable, but provides space for a daily psalm or proverb (see below).
- Through books of the Bible – Read books as they were intended.
- Follows church calendar (esp. Christmas and Easter) – Provides preparation and focus.
- Not “stuck” in Old Testament until end of year – Gives significant weight to the all-important shaping of the New Testament.
Bonus Values
- Daily Psalm or Proverb – Psalms are helpful in shaping a prayer life; Proverbs help cultivate wisdom.
- In YouVersion’s Bible – Many of our people use the Bible app
- Devotional support – Can be helpful in explaining and applying the text (and thus not being discouraged by not understanding)