The Unhurried Word: A Devotional Practice for Pastors

An Unhurried Practice: Reading Scripture Slowly

One of the disciplines that has been an important part of my spiritual journey over the years is reading and reflecting on Scripture.  In recent years, I have read the Bible on digital devices like my iPhone, iPad, or computer screen, but at some point I found myself wanting to read a physical Bible again. However, the NIV Bible I was using at that time was so well-loved that the cover was falling off and it was a challenge to carry with me.

Then, for my fifty-fifth birthday I received an NIV Pitt Minion Red Letter Reference Bible bound with black calfskin leather. It was a beautiful gift for a lover of the Scriptures. It has served me well (and I love that warm new-leather smell).

Here’s what the practice of reading and reflecting on Scripture looks like for me. I enjoy reading extended passages of Scripture. When I first received that new Bible, I decided to begin reading through it chronologically. I found a plan, printed it on a single sheet of paper, and tucked it inside the back cover. As I read, I kept track on that little sheet so I always knew where I was. I didn’t commit to finishing the whole plan but to remaining engaged with it as long as it proved life-giving and grace-giving.

Unhurried Reading: The Practice

I hope you’ll experiment with this practice to see if you find it helpful. Click here for a free resource from Unhurried Living on how to read Scripture slowly. 

Reflection Questions

• When was the last time when time in the Word truly refreshed you?

• What is the biggest barrier in your ministry to spending unhurried time in the Word?

• How do you think your congregation experiences the Word? What's the emphasis they hear from the pulpit about how they spend their quiet time/devotions?