One of the most striking commands given to the kings of Israel is found in Deuteronomy 17:18-20. God instructed that every king must personally copy the Scriptures, keep them close, and read them daily. The purpose? To cultivate humility, obedience, and a heart aligned with God’s will. This passage provides timeless wisdom for all believers, not just leaders.
1. Daily Bible Reading Helps Us Fear the Lord
Deuteronomy 17:19 states, “That way he will learn to fear the Lord his God by obeying all the terms of these instructions and decrees.” The fear of the Lord is not about dread but about deep reverence and awe. Regular engagement with God’s Word keeps our hearts soft and our minds attentive to His ways. When we daily read Scripture, we continually align our hearts with God’s truth, fostering a deeper relationship with Him.
2. It Guards Against Pride and Self-Reliance
The passage warns that without regular reading, the king might become proud, thinking himself above others. This warning applies to us as well. Pride creeps in when we neglect God’s voice and rely on our own wisdom. Daily Bible reading reminds us of our dependence on God’s guidance and grace. Scripture humbles us, showing us our need for His direction and wisdom in all areas of life.
3. It Keeps Us from Drifting Spiritually
Deuteronomy also emphasizes that reading God’s Word daily “will prevent him from turning away from these commands in the smallest way.” The drift away from God doesn’t usually happen overnight; it happens gradually when we neglect His Word. Just as a boat without an anchor drifts, a Christian without daily Scripture loses direction. When we immerse ourselves in God’s Word, we stay anchored in truth, avoiding the slow fade into compromise and worldliness.
4. It Ensures a Lasting Spiritual Legacy
The passage ends with a promise: “It will ensure that he and his descendants will reign for many generations in Israel.” Our faithfulness to God’s Word today impacts not just our lives but the generations that follow. When we make Bible reading a daily habit, we model a lifestyle of faith for our families, children, and spiritual communities.
How to Make Daily Bible Reading a Priority
If daily Bible reading isn’t yet a habit in your life, here are a few practical steps to get started:
- Set a Specific Time – Mornings are great, but find a time that works consistently for you.
- Follow a Plan – A structured reading plan helps you stay on track and read through the whole Bible over time.
- Take Notes and Reflect – Writing down key verses and thoughts helps internalize the message.
- Pray Through the Scriptures – Turn your reading into a conversation with God.
- Stay Accountable – Join a Bible study group or find a friend to read with.
Final Thoughts
The command to Israel’s kings teaches us a valuable lesson: Daily Bible reading is essential for a life that honors God. It keeps us humble, prevents us from straying, and ensures a legacy of faithfulness. Let us follow this wisdom and make time each day to hear from God through His Word. It’s not just a discipline; it’s a lifeline.
