Bible reading: the key to spiritual growth (1) - All The Word for Today Daily Devotionals for 2026

The Word for Today - Friday, January 2, 2026
by Bob and Debby Gass

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Bible reading: the key to spiritual growth (1)

Joshua 1:8 NKJV

God gave Joshua a big job: conquer the Promised Land and divide it up among the twelve tribes of Israel. He also gave him the key to success: 'This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.' God didn't command Joshua to seek a spiritual experience or a personal revelation. He told him to meditate on the Scriptures.

Greg Hawkins and Cally Parkinson wrote a book called Move. They wanted to find the key factors for spiritual growth, so they surveyed the congregations of one thousand churches. Here's what they found: 'Nothing has a greater impact on spiritual growth than reflection on Scripture. If churches could only do one thing to help people at all levels of spiritual maturity grow in their relationship with Christ, their choice is clear. They would inspire, encourage, and equip their people to read the Bible.'

You don't grow in Christ simply because you're busy in church; it happens automatically when you read and trust God's Word. So engage with your Bible. Meditate on it day and night. Think and rethink on it. Let it be your guide. Make it your go-to book for questions. Let it be the ultimate authority in your life.

Peter puts it this way: 'As newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby' (1 Peter 2:2 NKJV).

Soul food: Titus 1-3; Luke 1:1-10; Ps 90; Prov 1:1-7

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