Bible in a Year Blog

Happy New Year! You are invited to join us on the Bible in a Year journey in 2026!  We have over 10,000 people in 79 countries around the world signed up for our free emails filled with commentary, artwork, worship videos and questions for reflection.  To join us on the Bible in a Year journey in 2026 click on this link for more details and to sign up! Or, you may be interested in joining us on the Chronological Bible journey in 2026 and can sign up at this link: www.chronologicalbibleblog.com. Also, share this email/website with a friend and invite them to join you!

Genesis 1:1-2:25 + Matthew 1:1-2:12 + Psalm 1:1-6 + Proverbs 1:1-6
~ Click here to read today’s Scripture on Bible Gateway ~
~ Listen to today’s Scripture with Tom Dooley’s terrific NLT 1996 readings at this link or The ESV Bible: OT + NT + Psalms, +Proverbs ~

Old Testament – Welcome to the beginning of our One Year Bible journey in 2026! Today we begin with the book of Genesis! 

~Genesis~
Author: Moses
Date: 1420 or 1220 B.C.
Content: The book of Genesis was written to explain how everything began; in fact, the very title Genesis means “origin” or “beginning”. It explains that God created the universe, how man was created and placed in a perfect environment, how sin began, and how God provided salvation for lost man. The beginning of human history is described, the beginning of arts and crafts, how human languages began, and where the various nations came from. The focus then shifts to the beginning of the Hebrew people with Abraham, followed by the histories of Isaac, Jacob and his sons, and the book ends with Joseph in Egypt.
Theme: The main idea that runs through the book is that although God made everything good, man’s sin has spoiled it. God has not given up, but is now in search of man to save him. The overall control of God is stressed, and special attention is given to how God directs history for the good of his people and their salvation. (Above commentary is from Tyndale Publishers “The One Year Bible Companion” p. 1)  A wonderful commentary on the book of Genesis by Bob Deffinbaugh is at this link.  Below is more art from Michelangelo – this is a marble statue of Moses, the author of Genesis, made in the year 1515 in Italy:

Moses is the author/compiler of the first five books of the Old Testament, also known as the Pentateuch, or the books of the Law.  It is believed that these five books were written by Moses during Israel’s 40 years in the desert after the exodus from Egypt – which was likely between 1446 B.C. and 1406 B.C.  The book of Genesis is foundational to understanding the rest of the Bible.  It is a book of relationships – between God and his creation; between God and humans; and between humans themselves.  In Genesis, God pledges his love and faithfulness to humans through covenants.  It is a narrative that continually demonstrates faith. 

In today’s Genesis readings we read about the Creation account and Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden.  There is so much happening in today’s readings, that this daily blog will not do it all justice… A series of links with a great overview of the 6 literal 24 hour days of creation that I HIGHLY recommend you read is at AnswersInGenesis.org at this link. Check out some great information on the Creation account in our Genesis readings today at bible.org at this link. Below is a wonderful piece of art from Pat Marvenko Smith titled “The Creation” – you’ll note this piece shows all 6 days of creation and what was created on each day, going from the left to the right:

 

Art used by permission by Pat Marvenko Smith, copyright 1992.
To order prints visit her “Revelation Illustrated” site.

Today we read this incredibly powerful verse in Genesis chapter 1 verse 27: “So God created people in his own image; God patterned them after himself; male and female he created them.”  Do you believe that you are made in the image of God?  Is this a powerful thing to reflect upon? What might this mean for your life in this new year, knowing that you are made in the image of God? Does this give you a sense of possibility for your life?  A sense that you are made for a great purpose in this life?

Chapter 2 verse 3 is beautiful: “And God blessed the seventh day and declared it holy, because it was the day when he rested from his work of creation.”  A day of rest.  One day a week.  If God did this, think we should too?  🙂   6 days of work and play and 1 day each week of resting in God.  I confess I like the concept a lot more than I actually put it into practice.  Perhaps this year can be a year of new beginnings where a Sabbath day of rest enters our lives each week?  How are you doing on taking a Sabbath? I love this image below of God resting on the 7th day:

One quick note from our readings today about the location of the Garden of Eden.  It is believed to have been near where the Tigris and Euphrates rivers meet, in what is now southern Iraq.  Below is a very high level map:

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Genesis chapters 1 and 2 titled “The Meaning of Man: His Duty and His Delight” is at this link.

New Testament – Today we begin the gospel of Matthew!  Below is Northern Renaissance painter Jan Sanders van Hemessen’s “Jesus Summons Matthew to Leave the Tax Office” from the year 1536:

~Matthew~
Author: Matthew
Place: Perhaps Antioch
Date: A.D. 60-70
Content: Matthew was a tax collector, called by Jesus to follow him early in his public ministry; hence, he was an eyewitness of most of the events he describes. He begins with a detailed account of Jesus’ birth of the virgin Mary, his baptism, and temptation in the wilderness. Jesus came preaching the kingdom of God, entrance into which meant eternal life. One entered by repentance and faith. Matthew blocks the teaching of Jesus together into five discourses in which may be seen the ethics, the proclamation, the parables, the fellowship, and the consummation of the kingdom. Jesus’ death and resurrection end the Gospel with the command to go into all the world with the good news (gospel) of Jesus Christ.
Theme: Matthew’s main purpose in writing his Gospel is to show that Jesus fulfills the promise of God in the Old Testament. For this reason Jesus is introduced as a “descendant of King David and of Abraham,” and Matthew makes use of numerous Old Testament prophecies and quotations to explain Jesus’ life. Jesus came to be the Savior of the Jews, the Gentiles, and ultimately the world. The ethics required by members of God’s kingdom are found in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew chapters 5-7) where the world’s values are rejected and the Kingdom of God and his righteousness become supreme. (Above commentary is from Tyndale Publishers “The One Year Bible Companion” p. 21)  A wonderful commentary on the book of Matthew by Daniel Wallace is at this link.  Below is a painting (I absolutely love this painting!) titled “The Inspiration of St. Matthew” by the Baroque Italian artist Caravaggio, circa 1602:

In today’s Matthew readings, we read the genealogy of Jesus. I know that genealogy’s can sometimes seem a bit boring to read, but this one in Matthew is phenomenal!  If you just finished reading the One Year Bible this past year, you will recognize many of these names.  Or – let me encourage you to come back and read this genealogy again on January 1st of next year, if you are going through the entire Bible for your first time this year.  This genealogy will amaze you.  One of the interesting things to note in this genealogy is the mention of 5 women – Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, and Mary.  It was not the norm in the 1st century to list women in genealogies – only men were typically listed.  At least 3 of these women were Gentiles (not Jewish) – Tamara, Rahab, and Ruth.  Matthew was potentially trying to indicate to his Jewish readers that God’s work in this world is not limited to the people of Israel – nor was God’s work limited to men.   The genealogy in Matthew is sometimes illustrated by a “Jesse Tree” showing the lineage of Jesus from Jesse, father of King David:

Chapter 1 verse 23 is certainly a huge prophecy from the Old Testament prophet Isaiah being fulfilled through the birth of Jesus: “Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son, and he will be called Immanuel (meaning, God is with us).” Jesus is God and came to literally be with us.  To experience our human sufferings and temptations – and joys and triumphs.  The importance of this birth of Immanuel cannot be overstated.  God came to be with us in flesh and blood.

Chapter 2 verse 6 is very powerful in that last year’s One Year Bible crew recently read about the prophet Micah’s prophesying of Jesus being born in Bethlehem: “O Bethlehem of Judah, you are not just a lowly village in Judah, for a ruler will come from you who will be the shepherd for my people Israel.” Here again you can see Matthew writing for his Jewish audience – quoting an Old Testament prophet and also focusing in on the town of “Bethlehem of Judah” – the City of David.  This was to demonstrate again that Jesus was from the lineage of King David.

Verse 10 is a brief verse showing us the reaction of the magi in being led to Jesus: “When they saw the star, they were filled with joy!”   The magi were also Gentiles and likely astrologers – following a star might lead one to think this… 🙂  But no matter where they were from and what they believed prior, they were filled with joy at being led to the Messiah, Jesus.  And they gave him gifts and worshipped him.  And for us today – are we filled with joy in reading about the birth of Jesus?  Do we realize what this meant back then – and still means today?  That Immanuel was born – that God came to be with us.  (Note that some Biblical scholars say that contrary to popular tradition, it is believed that the magi did not visit Jesus at the manger on the night of his birth, as did the shepherds, but that the magi came months later and visited him as “child” in his “house” – see verse 11.)

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in Matthew titled “The Birth of Jesus” is at this link and “The Visit of the Wise Men” is at this link.

Psalms – Psalm 1 today begins the 150 Psalms of the Psalter!  You’ll note that in the One Year Bible we actually read through the Psalms twice during the course of the year. I think this is good because the Psalms have taken some time to really sink in for me personally. Once they sink in, they are phenomenal. I have a great friend who has shared with me that she “Prays the Psalms” every morning. I pray that during the course of this year you will have the experience of Praying the Psalms as you go through the One Year Bible.  I do believe praying the Psalms can indeed renew our passion for God:

It is often said that in 65 of the books of the Bible God speaks to us, but in the Psalter, the book of Psalms, we have the opportunity to speak to God. And in all kinds of ways and with all kinds of emotions. The Psalms can help you learn to express in pray everything to God – what you are happy about and what is troubling you. The Psalms are religious poetry. The 150 Psalms are comprised of Laments, Confessions, Crys, Petitions, Praise, Reflection, Reports, History, Blessings, and Wisdom. The author of many of the Psalms was King David. The Psalms were compiled over centuries and reached this final form in approximately the third century B.C. The Psalms were prayed in the temple and have been prayed in churches for the past two thousand years. The Psalms were quoted by Jesus, including Psalm 22:1 when Jesus was on the cross: “”My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”” (see Matthew 27:46) It is thought that the book of Psalms is one of the two books of the Old Testament most frequently quotes in the New Testament – along with the book of Isaiah.  See more commentary of the Psalms online at bible.org at this link.  Martin Luther said this about the book of Psalms: “The Psalter is the favorite book of all the saints. Each person, whatever his circumstances may be, finds in the book psalms and words which are appropriate to the circumstances in which he finds himself and meet his needs as adequately as if they were composed exclusively for his sake, and in such a way that he himself could not improve on them nor find or desire any better psalms or words.”

Today we read this reflection on the godly in Psalm 1 verse 2: “But they delight in doing everything the LORD wants; day and night they think about his law.”  How well does this verse ring true with your life today?  Do you delight in being obedient to God?  Do you think about God’s Word, the Bible, day and night?  Should you? In this new year, will you?   

Bible.org’s commentary on Psalm 1 is at this link.

Proverbs – The author of the majority of the Proverbs was King Solomon, the son of King David. This means that most of the Proverbs were written in the 10th century B.C. when Israel was a united kingdom. It may be that the Proverbs were not officially compiled together as a book until the 6th century B.C.  Agur son of Jakeh, King Lemuel, and “wisemen” were the other authors of the Proverbs.  Bob Deffinbaugh, Th.M., with bible.org has a wonderful Introduction to Proverbs at this link.  Below is an image of King Solomon dictating his wise maxims, the Proverbs:

Today we read in Proverbs chapter 1 verses 2 through 4 a great overview of why we should read and study the Proverbs: “The purpose of these proverbs is to teach people wisdom and discipline, and to help them understand wise sayings. Through these proverbs, people will receive instruction in discipline, good conduct, and doing what is right, just, and fair. These proverbs will make the simpleminded clever. They will give knowledge and purpose to young people.”  Do you want wisdom?  Do you want discipline in your life?  Do you want to do what is right, just and fair?  Do you want purpose for your life?   Do you believe this journey through the Bible this year will move you forward in these areas?  Will you cling to the wisdom of the Proverbs this year?

Worship Video – I typically post up a worship video that relates to our daily readings on this section of the blog.  Today, reading about God’s creation of our world in Genesis reminded me of Chris Tomlin’s song “Our God” (filmed live at Red Rocks, Colorado, in 2013 – I was there!) which I think ties in nicely our Matthew readings today as well.  Enjoy, and don’t be afraid to Worship God right now along with this video!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJpt1hSYf2o

Do you personally know our Great God?  Click here to meet Him!

Please join us in memorizing and meditating on a verse of Scripture today: “So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” Genesis 1:27 NLT

Prayer Point: Based on Genesis 1:27 above, will you pray today for your family, co-workers/students, and others in your community that you will see the image of God in each of them them?  Also, will you pray for those you know who are made in the image of God, and yet are not in a saving personal relationship with Jesus? Will you pray that they will come to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior this year?

Comments from You and Question of the Day: As today is our first day together on the One Year Bible journey in 2026, I thought I’d post up a One Year Bible “roll-call.”  This is an opportunity for each of us to click on the “Comments” link below and let everyone know a few things about ourselves, as we’ll be journeying through the Word together over the coming year.  So here’s the roll-call questions:  1. Have you read the entire Bible before?  2. What are you looking forward to about reading the entire Bible in 2026?  3. What’s your favorite book or verse in the Bible?  Thanks for participating in the roll-call!  🙂 Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Bible readings at this link.

p.s. #2 – Download a schedule of our Bible readings for the year in PDF format at this link.

p.s. #3 – I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!

BLOG READERS HISTORICAL COMMUNITY COMMENTS:

======= Ramona:

Wisdom or money can get you almost anything, but it’s important to know that only wisdom can save your life. Notice the way God does things; then fall into line. Don’t fight the ways of God, for who can straighten out what he has made crooked?
Enjoy prosperity while you can. But when hard times strike, realize that both come from God. That way you will realize that nothing is certain in this life. (Ecclesiastes 7:12-14)
Today is a New Year that brings with it a New Beginning. Today we set out to begin the daunting task of reading through the entire Bible. For some this will be the first time and will bring with it tons of questions and probably comments like, “What does this all mean?” Some stories will be exciting and better than the entire series of The Godfather or more spectacular than Star Wars. There will also be plenty when you will think of giving up with a statement saying, “God, this is boring and besides, this makes no sense.”
From a veteran Read through the Bible Reader, may I encourage you to stay focused and read even when it seems like you are chewing wood. I began reading through the Word in 1987 and some of the “What in the world does this mean?” have just begun to be answered. Each and every time I go through I get a deeper understanding of the things I grasped at first and at each succeeding reading though and an a simple understanding of things I just had no clue about.
Genesis is the Book of Beginnings so let us come to this book leaving behind our preconceived understandings and ideas, our denominational glasses suspending our disbelief and unbelief believing that God’s Word will explain itself to us in the daylight of His Word.
Whom will he teach knowledge?
And whom will he make to understand the message?
Those just weaned from milk?
Those just drawn from the breasts?
For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept,
Line upon line, line upon line,
Here a little, there a little.”
For with stammering lips and another tongue
He will speak to this people
(Isaiah 28:9-11-NKJV)
In the Beginning is our chance to study God’s Principals and Patterns so that we can apply those patterns and principals to our lives.
Notice the way God does things; then fall into line. Don’t fight the ways of God
Grace and peace to all in the New Year,
Ramona

======= Kristy:

Hi everyone! Happy New Year to one and all!
Just a quick self-introduction here to begin: this year is an important one for me, as I’m turning twenty one this year. I was brought up in a non-religious family, but for the past few years I’ve been thinking quite of religion, especially God. I think too much of the human experience is related to God (our ethics, our aims in this life, our afterlife, even our relation to one another), as such it’s paramount for each of us to think carefully on the subject. I joined OYB with the intention to know the Bible better, and hopefully know God better as well.
Mike, with regards to your comments about the one day of rest. I think it was my interaction with the Bible at childhood (I had a pictorial version) that ever since I could remember, Sundays has been rest days for me. As I grew up, Sundays became the day I sit quietly at home, reflecting and thinking and writing in my diary. I think for this year, I will devote Sundays to the OYB (as I don’t think my university schedule would permit me to participate daily, as much as I would want to). Hope you and the others will find the wonderful opportunity to incoporate the day of rest into your week – I personally find it paramount to maintaining a balanced life, and especially keeping Monday blues at bay! 
best,
Kristy

======= Ryan:

Happy new year everyone! I am looking forward to taking this journey with all of you. I was looking for a good one year reading plan when I stumbled upon this one. It is exactly what I have been looking for, and I am thrilled to be able to experience God’s word with a large group of other believers. This will be my first time in reading the entire bible. I am very excited to hear insight from all of you as well. Good luck to all of you!
Ryan

======== Kristen:

Happy New Year to All!
One of our pastors challenged us as a congregation to join and participate in this OYBB. A big shout-out to all my brothers and sisters from GSUMC. I’m sure the Lord has sooo many things planned for each of us this year, and my study of the Word has been one of His favorite ways of revealing His path for me. I praise Him as so many of us have heard His invitation to open our minds and hearts to His Word. I pray for amazing and huge things to be revealed to each of us through this study. Thank you Mike for your faithfulness!
Kristen

====== Thomas:

Hello! Happy New Year!
First up, thanks to God for the opportunity to read through the Bible once again. I did it last year and have been looking forward to starting again. I think I would miss it if I didn’t have something so structured to follow every day. It can sometimes be tough going, but stick with it!
I’m planning to memorise one verse a day this time round, from the readings for that particular day. We’ll see if I still remember January 1st on December 31st!
Thanks also to Mike, you do a great job keeping the site running and the e-mails coming. God bless you, man.
So I look forward to sharing ’round 2′ with you all; to all the new readers you are in for a treat! May God reveal Himself to us yet more, may we allow His Word to speak in the year to come.
All the best,
Thomas

======= Jan:

The Word Itself is a true miracle; think about how very very very long ago it was written & it is still going on into Eternity. The Word of God is living & breathing, even to the dividing of marrow of bone (healing in all its ways). When you think about all the different languages the Word of God has gone through & still the Word of God is with us. Always remember, if you want to know God’s will for you/us…GOD’S WILL IS GOD’S WORD, a fact that never changes, just like Him!
Jan

======= Shirley:

I am a quadriplegic due to multiple sclerosis. I cannot hold the Bible in my hands, so I was thrilled to find the One Year Bible online. Actually, I found it last September and have been reading every day since then I loved starting day this way. This is my first time starting in January and going through the whole year. I’m looking forward to reading everyone’s comments. Good luck to everyone!
Shirley

======= Laura:

Thoughts on pondering Gen 1:28; Mat 2:12; Ps 1:2; and Pr 1:2–
Humanity–male and female–was given dominion. That’s a tall order. There is no way we will pull this off without wisdom. The Tanakh (the OT) begins with this expectation. The magi heard God’s voice and listened. Their wise choice to hear and obey gave Joseph and Mary the time they needed to escape to Egypt and save Jesus’ life. The Book of Psalms begins the third section of the Tanakh. The Book of Joshua–which we’ll get to April 10–is the first book of the second section of the Tanakh. Both sections begin with the command to meditate day and night. Meditating on the Word is the source of the wisdom needed to exercise our dominion and obey when we hear God’s voice. Proverbs is a sort of distillation of wisdom.
I have a feeling it’s going to be an awesome ride (and I use the term ‘awesome’ advisedly).
BTW, many think that the genealogy in Luke is Mary’s. It is possible that Joseph’s is listed in Matthew because the right to the Davidic throne came through the father. Just a thought.
Laura

======= Linda:

Re. the memorization of scripture:
I once heard Bible study author Cynthia Heald comment to a group that the scriptures we should memorize are “the ones we need, and the ones we love.” I thought that was a pretty good guide.
As far as methods for memorizing, I’m fairly old-fashioned in my approach: utilizing flash cards until I have learned them and then writing them out from memory to test how well I’m actually doing.
Here are 8 points I read recently in the book “Becoming a Vessel God Can Use” by Donna Partow. They were from a sermon she heard given by Chuck Swindoll:
1. Set aside 15 min. per day for scripture memorization.
2. Choose verses that address your weaknesses. That way you’ll have a vested interest in remembering them.
3. Read the passage aloud over and over.
4. Break the verse down into logical parts. Learn one phrase, then two, until you’ve memorized the entire passage.
5. Repeat the reference (book, chapter, and verse) often.
6. It’s better to learn a few verses really well, than many, poorly.
7. Underline difficult terms or key words. Look them up in the dictionary, a concordance, or Bible reference book.
8. Write out the verse from memory. This is a critical step. Something about putting pen to paper makes the words more permanent.
By the way, I only recently found this site and was eager to start in concert with the rest of this group. I have asked a group from my congregation to join me and we’re blogging together about our progress to spur one another on to good works! Thanks for the excellent support for this God-honoring goal. I had made Matthew 4:4 our rallying cry before we embarked, and was quite blessed to read today’s comments about living by His every word.
Linda

======Erma:

I have read through the Bible several times.
I’m looking forward to gain more insight, knowledge and understanding of God and becoming a better person from applying all I’m learning.
My favorite book is always the one I’m reading at the time.-but Philippians 3:7-11, Colossians 3:1-17 and Ephesians 2:8-10 are etched deeply in my soul.
Erma

======== Nancy:

I want to give my testimony. My neighbor helped me come to the Lord. One day we were discussing the Bible. My heart was beating out of my chest. She told me to go home & read my Bible. I was not a Bible reader, as a catholic we were not taught to do so. I was taught about the Trinity, just not about needing to give my life to Jesus. I went home, prayed & said, “I don’t know where to read so I’m just going to open my Bible. God honored that simple prayer. It opened in the Psalms. Under the number of the Psalm was a title, “Ardent longing for God”. That was me that day. I didn’t pray a “sinners prayer” as such, but my heart did. That day I become a true follower of Jesus. A little while later at the beginning of the new year I joined a church that taught the Bible. Have followed Him ever since, 50 years. I pray that as you read thru the Bible this year, if you don’t know Jesus as Savior & Lord that you will at the end. He loves you so much, He died for you.
Nancy

======= Dee:

Hi all! This is my all time fav blog for studying the Bible. Good job Mike! I love Proverbs 3:5-7 and lots of things stuck out. 1- our littles at church started on this story this morning at children’s church! I love it and helped teach it. I never thought of this before but in the beginning did Adam sleep? Or was he a spirit who was alive and never slept like God? When God put him in a deep sleep and took a rib for woman..made me ponder or was this the first anesthesia performance we have see?
Also the lineage of David/Jesus..I used to struggle remembering who Ruth had and so on until a song I loved this past year: Nicole Mullins The God Who Sees it talks about Ruth gave birth to Obed who gave birth to Jesse who had a son named David..good song. Also with Joseph being the lineage of David it was imperative that he not dismiss her but marry her and give the son the lineage of David.
Welcome everyone!
Dee

======= Lori:

1. I have not read the entire Bible before.
2. I am looking forward to reading about how to honor God with the life He has given me.
3. 1 Peter 5:7: “Casting all your cares upon Him, for He cares for you.”
Lori

======= Meg:

1. I have read the entire Bible at least six times, maybe more. I do not remember for certain. 2. I am most looking forward to digging deeper this year. (Thank you for this blog!) 3. Romans 8:28 is my favorite verse.
Today’s reading – the fact that the wise men were astrologers studying the stars has NEVER occurred to me. This snapped a whole new piece of the prophecy puzzle in place for me.
Meg

======= Deanna:

I belong to a group of 6 women who have read through the One Year Bible now for the 8th year in a row. I, also, belong to another group of 6 women that are just starting this journey together (2 of us are veterans) and looking forward to what happens this year!
I am just finding this blog and small group study guides. Where have I been! I am thrilled to have another added perspective and seeing what others have to say.
What came off the page today…is “God created human beings in his own image”. I am working on writing a study and was studying last night and came across this and the following observation. One thing we have that no other creature has is a VOICE / WORDS. We are able to communicate, regardless of language barriers. Oh, how beautiful to realize that He gave us words that He already had. Another piece of evidence that He wants to speak to us!!
Love and blessings,
Deanna

======= Liz:

I have done the OYBB several times and read through the Bible many times previous to knowing about OYBB. I have recommended It to many people and on Facebook.
Matt 4:4 (and Deut 8:3) Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”
I want to know Him more and become more and more who He wants me to be.
Liz

======= Jessica:

1. I haven’t read it through in a year before!
2. I’m looking forward to gaining wisdom and understanding.
3. A verse that’s always been meaningful for me is Hebrews 13:6–“So we can say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper. I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?’”
The one that has been on my mind a lot lately is “My food is to do the will of him who sent me” from John 4:34.
From today’s reading, I picked out Matthew 1:21–“…and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” I usually read a lot of the birth of Jesus leading up to Christmas, but not so much early in January, but it is always a sweet story to read and a good reminder of Jesus’ purpose in coming as one of us. It was also neat to read in Genesis about God creating trees and fruit with seeds alongside the Psalm where believers are like trees bearing fruit.
Thanks for the blog; I started following along at the tail end of last year and look forward to reading through during this year. I especially appreciate the art and music you include!
Jessia

======= Regina:

Roll call- I’ve been reading through the entire Bible since 2005. So much to learn and to comprehend. This year I’m looking forward to understanding the history of the OT, connecting the dots of time and places. And continuing to see God’s plan and purposes. Favorite book is James. I live in IL and Lord willing I will be moving to AZ next year.
Regina

======= Andy:

Roll Call – I have read the entire Bible before through a class at Trinity United Methodist Church in Denver (Disciple I). My now wife and I did it in the year before we were married–we had met at and were married in that church! I’m doing it again this year to help me to spend more time in the Word.
Andy

====== Allyson:

Roll Call- I have read through the Bible in a year for many years. I saw this opportunity to read with a group of people and to meet together once a week and I wanted to be a part of it. My favorite book of the Bible is Genesis. It is God’s wisdom in his creation, in his choosing of a people and in his providence told in a story form that has endeared me to it all the way from childhood. Favorite words that stick out to me in Today’s readings were from Chapter 1 verses 7,9,11,15,24,30 “and it was so”
Chapter 1 verses 4,10,12,17,21,25,31 “and God saw that it was good”.
Whatever God determines it is so and it is good.
Happy New Year! I look forward to meeting you.
Allyson

======= Terri:

I have been reading the Bible since my spiritual rebirth in 1984. I studied the Bible in Bible College and have read through the Bible many times, using different plans, but I keep coming back to the one year Bible Blog. With my very busy life, it really helps me to stay on task.I could not survive without reading God’s Word every day! I was so blessed last year and look forward to another year of encouragement.I am very thankful!
Terri

======== Renee:

Greetings and Blessings in the new year!
Roll call
#1. I have read through the Bible
#2. I’m looking forward for God to reveal more of himself to me
#3. Eph. 3:20-21
Peace
Renee

======= Tim:

1. Yes, I have read through the Bible many many times.
2. I want to know God better and become more like him to influence others to want to know God too.
3. Micah 6:8. “he hath sown thee O man what is good and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with thy God.
Tim

======= Kim:

1. No. I have attempted before but not successfully.
2. I’m excited to grow more in my relationship with the Lord.
3. Isaiah 40:31
Kim

======= Rick:

1. This will be my 3rd year.
2. Excited with a new format, I learn more every time.
3. Psalm 91:1-2

======= Naomi:

Hello!
I am excited to journey with all of you in the is new yr!! I will be honest and admit that I haven’t read the bible from front to back, although I have read the majority of it..(embarrassing to admit) I have made attempts in the past to follow the blog, but hopefully this yr will bring new disciplines and revelations to my life as never before! I love the proverbs and reading the epistles of the apostles in the New testament! God bless you for the opportunity to grow and encourage/invite other to do so as well.. I look into the new year with great anticipation of a greater knowledge and a peace that goes along with growing in our walk with God!!! It’s going to be a wonderful journey.. I’m excited! Let’s get started
Naomi

======= Heather:

I haven’t read the entire Bible before, but have attempted several Bible in a Year reading/studying programs over the years. I am lookinh forward to having a bettet understanding of God’s Word from this blog.
My favorite Bible verse is Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Heather

======= Donna:

Roll Call: I have read the Bible at least 10 times – I have since kept a record because I try to read a new translation each year – this year will be the English Standard Version (ESV) because my son and his girlfriend gave me this Bible in an illuminated version – it’s beautiful. My life verse is John 14:6 – “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father but by me.” Jesus is the only way to heaven. My goal this year to to understand and apply God’s Word more fully in my life. For all the newbies – this Bible Reading Plan does work when others do not – some days may be boring to you. God’s Word is complete with no errors. I haven’t been able to post in this Blog at all – hope it will work this time. Grace & peace to you Ramona as I enjoy your insights into God’s Word.
Donna

======= Judie:

Thank you Mike for giving us such an amazing venue to learn God’s word and to become closer to Him. Sometimes along with the scripture, it’s the songs that really touch me, or the artwork, but what I love the most is the daily reading: Listen to today’s Scripture on One Year Bible Online Audio, ESVBible.org: read by Tom Dooley. This is listed at the top of the page under the list of scriptures for the day. He has such a wonderful voice, and he gives a background about the scripture.
One of my favorite Bible verses is: And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
This is my 3rd year to go through this Bible Blog.
Judie

======= Diane:

Hello all!!!
First of all I’d like to say I’m so thankful for this blog!!! Thank you for creating it!
Yes, I’ve read bible through this blog two times and once through a plan where it’s read in 3 months. Last year I was able to stick to readings as I’m now retired. I’m really feeling the Lord wanting me to draw closer to Him in prayer, so that’s where I’ll be focusing on this year. My favorite verses are Romans 8:38-39. Something about myself that’s different is that we have 9 chickens. We live in the Midwest where it’s -14 right now brr! No blog here.
Praise the Lord!!! He IS so good! Have a blessed day and year and let’s all grow in knowledge and love of/ for Him!
Diane

======= Debbie:

I’ve read the bible through five times with this site, the last two years a different one. I’m excited to be back in tune with this site as I find I learn something new in reading again. My favorite book or verse right now is John 10:3 “The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. ” A fun fact might be the fact that I have a 60lb dog and a 7lb cat, both adopted from my adult college children’s care when faced with room mate issues. I’ve found love can grow where you least expect it to! I currently live in Dallas, Texas, with my husband and live in Denton County. I am a native Texan, born and raised in Fort Worth!
Debbie

======= Laurie:

I have read through the Bible several times in the span of a year. It has been a blessing every time, and I am always amazed at how God speaks to me, encourages me and helps to strengthen me in my walk with Him. I’m looking forward to being in a disciplined reading of the Bible again. I live in the Atlanta, Georgia area. I am an artist and am hoping to go back to school to further my skills and knowledge. The Lord may be leading me into the field of Art Therapy. I have enjoyed making crocheted items, but love all types of art and creating.
Laurie

======= Mitch:

Matthew 1-2:12
I was an avowed atheist until 48. Hated Christians and the concept of God. Finally, decided I had had enough and was going to prove the Bible wrong (find significant errors). After a few futile months of cross referencing articles from atheists and Christians, woke up one night, and talked out loud. “If you exist and are the Creator, then I just want to know the truth.” It was never the same after that, and a few weeks later on a Palm Sunday of 2004, sobbing and prostrate on the floor, I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. The instant change in me that night was amazing, and it has been a wonderful growth journey ever since that night. It has been 11+ years, and only wish the time frame was longer. Usually write a lot of commentary. However, think it is better to bring up salient points and let people do their own research. Believe the Bible is the most wonderfully interconnected read EVER, and hope to emphasize that in my posts.
Matthew written for the Jewish nation and theme is Jesus as King.
Lineage:
Think the purpose of lineage was not about David. The Jeconiah curse would have precluded Jesus from the kingly line from his adopted father (Joseph). Believe it was about Abraham (first name listed) and God’s promise that all nations would be blessed through Abraham. Side note: Mary’s lineage (Luke) went through David by way of Nathan, this avoiding Jeconiah curse. While the Jewish people might say Kingship could not come through Mary. Find no place where that is stated in Bible, and would make sense if Mary was only child. Certainly King lines in England have come through the Queen.
Not consummating the marriage until after the birth of Jesus, kept Jesus (eldest) first in Line for Kingship in case of siblings existing in the family.
He was to be named – Jesus. Translation: Jehovah is Salvation. There is no other way – not by birth, not by ritual, not by man. Salvation is only available though God. A cult once asked me why his name was not Immanuel. That was an Old Testament prophecy. The prophecy is in first part of phrase, and then it says “they” called him Immanuel. In the Bible Jesus is called many things – Son of God, Son of Man, Prince of Peace, etc. The important thing is Jesus would be born via Virgin birth, and the reference title given is that “God is with us”(Immanuel). How great is that – for centuries God had been silent towards the Jews, and now here He is in the flesh.
Want to do some research: why did Jesus have to be fully God and Fully man from birth? The answer is in one of the roles of Jesus – the Kinsman Redeemer (OT). There are four rules to be eligible as Kinsman Redeemer. Those rules mandate that Jesus be fully God and fully Man from the get go.
Magi:
Is this from left field or what? Not really. In the OT Daniel was made head of the Magi. You think he shared his faith and the prophecies of a redeemer – king with his fellow Magi. You think some were believers? I do.
Magi were important, and believe they traveled in an armed caravan. Nothing says the Magi went to Bethlehem. It says the magi went where the star led them. Certainly that could have been Nazareth (80 miles from Bethlehem), and would make sense given the term young child (in the Greek) could reference a toddler or a young babe. We will see next that the star probably appeared two years earlier, so even if at conception would make Jesus between 1 and 2.
The gifts: subscribe to the version that the gifts were symbolic. Gold for a king, frankincense for The priestly role of Jesus, and myrrh (embalming anointment) as a prefiguring of the death of Christ.
Genesis:
Many people get hung up on creation. Very few give credit to the many dozens of statements in the Bible that are science related – written many thousands of years ago, that are true, AND can not possibly have been known until recently (last few hundred years). Do you know why the 8th day for circumcision was the optimal day (especially in ancient times) to perform the act? Do you think Moses pulled that number out of a hat, or that he was acting on God’s instructions?
Cosmology is a science based on hypotheses. The beginning of the universe can not be replicated. In my time as a Christian, have seen the age of universe, and the size of universe changed based on data. What’s next? If you do not believe in God nor Creation, than all your reasoning for how Universe came into being can not have anything to do with God. As for me, having a personal relationship with God, if the bible says he created than He created. It will always be a disagreement, but one I completely understand. However, if you understand the Bible as True, than an all-powerful God is certainly capable of creating the Universe.
Man:
Have seen theories change from hot primordial soup, to cool, to volcano source, to bottom of ocean. Argument over odds of random binding of cells. The odds are still pretty high, but the other side will say given time anything can happen. So was it one creature evolved, and laid eggs, or was it two that came into existence – male and female in the same area at same time? If eggs, at what point did procreation turn to present form. Seems like a lot of faith (belief) is required to go down these paths.
Recent Genetic studies have pointed to a source man and a source woman. By the accompanying statements it is secular work. The point being: there are indications that man did not just pop up all over the place and start reproducing.
Side note: you can take the families from the Ark, and assume average children and life spans and extrapolate to now and get pretty close to the world’s present population.
As for me, if Bible says God created Man, then I am good with that view. In His “image” is interesting. We have His qualities and attributes. Yes, they are broken, and not perfect since the “Fall”. The interesting thing to me is our makeup precludes being created by a monotheistic God. We communicate, we love, we have a desire for relationships. Who did a monotheistic God talk to, love, or have a relationship with before the creation. To me, this is a reason to believe the Trinity is true. In the Trinity God communicated, loved and had perfect relationship. One being, three persons. We have one person in our being. Can an infinite being contain three persons? Can not really go down a previous creation that was wrapped up and scrapped, because that had to also be created at some point in time. BUT, God’s attributes never change, so he had to love, communicate, and know relationships before ANY creation. To me, it really can only (again) be explained by the Trinity.
Wrote more than I thought today. Will address some concepts in Proverbs and Psalms tomorrow.
May God Bless you and yours.
Mitch

======= Art:

I’m !rt. I’ve been here for several years, being refreshed by the Word of the Lord.
I suffer from multiple myeloma, a blood and bone cancer for which there is no cure. I’ve been blessed to understand that this Earth is not my home. I’ve been placed here by our Creator for a purpose, and we all will soon stand before God in what we call the afterlife. It will be, I’m sure, a glorious eternity.
I have followed Mike’s blog for several years, reading the Scripures and thinling about Mike’s comments. I love the musical selections, the references to more study, and the Comments section. I seldom comment, but get wisdom from the thoughts of others, especially Ramona.
If you are new here, I’m sure you will be blessed. If for any reason you fall behind, be sure to rejoin us at the point of your return. May God Bless You and Keep You.
Art

======= Greg:

I read through the bible last year following the One Year Bible. It was a challenge at times but I was blessed to have completed my first complete read through. This year, I look forward to deepening my understanding and appreciation of His Word
One verse us tough to choose, but I do love these verses: “For it is by God’s grace that you have been saved through faith. It is not the result of your own efforts, but God’s gift, so that no one can boast about it.” Ephesians 2: 8-9
I love to play (Steven Curtis Chapman is my guy) and to write contemporary Christian music.
I’m from Wisconsin. Go Packers.
Greg

======= Dianne:

Hi everyone, I live in Australia and this is my second year of reading through the Bible and Mike’s comments, references and further commentaries. I really appreciate all that is offered and know that God will bless the faithful reading, hearing, study, memorisation and meditation on His word. I have passed on the link to others so they too can benefit. One of my favorite verses is from Isaiah 30:15 For thus says the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel, ” in returning and rest you shall be saved; In quietness and confidence shall be your strength.”
Dianne

======= Lynne:

Hi everyone! I have read through the bible once, a few years ago, with this group. This blog, the OYB book and companion are my essential tools. I’m turning 50 on Monday and thought reading the bible this year would be a wonderful way to stay centered on God.
Mike, thank you, thank you, thank you for enabling my reading journey. The info, links, and pictures provide enough information for me to know what I’m reading and how I might apply it to my life.
With gratitude,
Lynne

======= Pat:

Mike I can’t even remember how many years we’ve traveled this road of Bible study together. It was shortly after you started with this great mission work of yours. Thank you for keeping it up all these wonderful years.
God bless you and your wife and daughter and may this be a wonderful year full of blessings for all of you and all those who are participating in reading the Bible through in a year.
Your hillbilly friend from Kentucky
Pat

======= DeeDee:

Mike, i feel like Pat, i cant remember how long i have followed this link through the years. I am looking for continuing wisdom in this year. Divine purpose ands voice through the recordex chapters. I love them all: one fave is: Proverbs 3:5-6. I love the history and references through bib’s commentaries and wish i could research it all day. My hidden passion is to teach a bible class or study at our church. Fear and time has hindered me from that for almost a year. Hopefully I will keep Gods promise this year. I live in Georgia, USA. One insight i had and learned drom last year to now is that we dont have to rest just one day but we should labor to enter into the rest of God everyday. Hebrews 4:1. That is the only command from God that we are commissioned to labor into. Peace and happy new year!
DeeDee

======= Ron:

Mike,
Happy New Year to you and your family. I can’t tell you how many times that I have started reading the one Year bible reading plan only to either stop short of finishing it or to just quit. But I am praying and hoping that will change this year. I think that I heard about your blog from an friend of mine around the end of summer. You have helped very much with my understanding of the scriptures ( and also with the Holy Spirit). With your questions that you present to us, well, you get me thinking!!! But I want to ask this question out there? Is there any one else that after they read the daily scripture that as the day goes on they don’t either think about what they read or can’t even remember what verse they read. I have prayed and prayed about that but …….. So my prayer is that each and every day, not only do I start my day reading God’s word but also being able to remember it chapter by chapter, verse by verse, word by word. That I could really live by his word and not by my actions. God bless.
Ron

======= Linda:

Linda from Va. Beach but an Iowa girl: Really pumped after today’s readings and the worship song. I have read the Bible before with different reading plans, but this is my second time with the 1YrBlog. It inspires me to dig deeper. I also listen while I read and that helps me focus. I am a “second career” second year seminary student, and really felt lost at the end of the first semester this year. I was ill with the flu, and just overwhelmed. I have rested, worshipped, spent time with family and friends, and feel restored. I love the creation story – how the Holy Spirit hovers over that which is formless and void – because we all reach those places in our lives. He is faithful to restore and refresh!
Linda

======= Colleen:

Hi, my name is Colleen and I live in North Carolina. This is my fifth time reading through the Bible; the first two times, I was on my own, but the last three have been with Mike here on OYBB. Though there is much to be gained any time you read God’s Word, I truly have to say that reading it on this web site has given me a wealth of understanding and insight that I could not have gained on my own. I love the fact that Mike not only writes great commentary himself, but also gives links to other reliable sources, as well as allows fellow readers to comment with their own insights and experiences. As a physically disabled person who doesn’t get out much, it’s wonderful to feel like I am part of a large, diverse group of people, each of whom are at his or her own particular place in the Christian journey. I thank God for Mike, the OYBB, and all of you and wish you many blessings in the New Year.
Colleen