David Donnan

I’m so excited to see so many pastors and Christians sharing their 2025 Bible reading plans! It’s inspiring to see how others approach spending time in God’s Word. Here’s what I’m planning to do this year.

Historically, I’ve struggled to stick with reading the entire Bible in a year. Falling behind often left me discouraged and tempted to give up. But I’ve been reminded of something I attribute to Brian Russell: “The goal is to fall in love with reading the Scriptures, not just completing a reading plan.”

With that in mind, I’ve been working my way through the Life Application Study Bible in the New Living Translation, book by book. It’s been recommended as a fantastic beginner’s study Bible, and I wanted to experience it for myself. Instead of following a rigid schedule, I choose books as I go, highlighting them in the table of contents when I finish.

Occasionally, I’ll pause wherever I’m at and read a chapter from Proverbs that corresponds to the day of the month—for example, Proverbs 5 on January 5th. When I hit a rut, I’ll turn to listening to Scripture through YouVersion, which often helps reignite my focus.

It’s not the most creative or structured plan—no fancy PDF guides or trackers—but this rhythm works for me. It’s a balance of consistency and flexibility that keeps me engaged.

I typically pair this reading practice with centering prayer, intercessory prayer, and journaling. These practices deepen my time with God and help me stay rooted in His presence.

Would you like to hear more about those other practices? Or perhaps a review of the Life Application Study Bible in the NLT?

I’d also love to hear about your Bible or devotional plan for 2025. How are you diving into Scripture this year?