A month ago, I blogged here about my two main resolutions for 2010. My plan was to read through the entire Bible this year, as well as up the amount of books I read to 40 (I estimated that I read 25 books in 2009). So, how am I doing? Well, thanks for asking.
Bible Reading
I’ve been using a Bible reading plan from YouVersion.com. The amazing folks over at YouVersion.com have put a lot of time and energy into providing people with a free online Bible. They’ve created applications for most Smart Phones, and have utilized most of the major translations of the Bible. If you haven’t checked out their site, you should. I’m using the Life Journal Reading Plan and haven’t missed a day. I’m 6.3% completed. And, I’m loving it.
I do my Bible reading first thing in the morning. I find it easier then. Each day, I’m reminded again of some story (especially Old Testament) that I had forgotten many of the details about. Reading this way has allowed the Bible to come alive once again for me. I’m truly enjoying it.
40 Books
At first, I didn’t think I was doing very well with my book reading. There was a week where I seemed that I wasn’t getting far at all. But then, I decided to stop and look back at what books I’ve completed so far this month:
A Multi-Site Road Trip by Greg Ligon – I read about two thirds of this one and then skimmed the rest of the book. It’s a pretty good overview of the different types of multi-site churches in America.
The Prodigal God by Tim Keller – great book about the parable of the prodigal son. This one could become a sermon series for later in the year.
Primal by Mark Batterson – very good book. I blogged about it here. Technically, it shouldn’t be on this list, because I read it the last few week’s of December, but I did start it after I decided to do the 40 books in 2010.
Uncle John’s Endlessly Engrossing Bathroom Reader – okay, maybe it shouldn’t be on this list, but it was a 500 pager! Sure, it took many trips to the bathroom to get it all done, but it was worth it in many ways.
I’m currently reading
The Naked Gospel by Andrew Farley – very interesting book. I have a feeling this will be a book that I chew on and spit out the bones.
Christianity’s Dangerous Idea by Alister McGrath – I’m really excited about this one. It’s been many moons since I’ve read a “Church History” book, and that’s exactly what this is. We’ll see how it goes.
Leading on Empty by Wayne Cordeiro – I’m about halfway through this one. I’ll probably finish it, but likely not until later in the year.
Anyway, it does look like I’m on pace to hit the 40 book mark, but only if I continue to dedicate some time to reading each day.
What about you? How are you doing with the resolutions you made this year?
January 27th, 2010 at 9:47 am
Great idea on how to hold yourself responsible for following your resolutions: posting a blog post about your progress! I think I shall do that as well!
Looks like you’re on a roll! Keep up the good work Rob!
January 30th, 2010 at 9:54 pm
Great site. I appreciate your thoughts/review of the books. I read a good amount and I may try a couple on your list.
February 10th, 2010 at 3:12 pm
Don’t you read anything interesting, Mr. Dale?