If you’ve been following along, either on social media or here on my blog, you may be familiar with my early morning wake-up call. Earlier this year I started waking up around 4:30am with my husband to get in the Word, fill up our cups (literally and spiritually), and have a little bit of personal time before our four young children wake up. We exchanged staying up super late for getting up super early, and it’s been the best schedule choice! I’m so glad we do this.
Many of you have asked for more support or details in this area, so I thought I’d share a little more about how I study my Bible and what my morning time looks like as a mama of four.
Though I grew up in a Christian home and accepted Christ on my own, it wasn’t until I was nearly 10 years into my marriage (with two toddlers and a new born in tow) that I wanted to really get to know Christ better. I also wanted to be more comfortable praying aloud, memorizing & reciting scripture, and exuding peace & patience.
Whether you’re new to having a relationship with Christ or are well-seasoned with your history & knowledge, there is room for all of us to learn together. There is never a better time to invite the Lord into your life than RIGHT NOW :) He is thrilled to have our attention and love, and He delights in our child-like faith.
Here are a couple of the Bibles I use: women’s study Bible (CSB; similar), thinline Bible (ESV; great for traveling/church), (in)courage devotional Bible (CSB). If you’re looking to read some of my written devotions, the (in)courage Bible has two of mine inside, along with over 100 women writers! So cool.
When I first get up, I often listen to worship music to help wake up my mind. Otherwise, I will definitely fall back asleep. Maverick City Music writes powerfully true music. Give them a listen!
After that, it’s common for me to read a devotional. I love when people share their stories and pair it with relative scripture. But I don’t stop with that! I’m also reading through a chronological study of the Bible. This is how I really dig into the word, though it takes me a little longer than anticipated because I always read the sidebar notes in my study Bible. I love learning! Truly, I soak it up and desire to spend my entire life learning and growing. Through this time I’ve changed so much, and I would love to share more about my story. One post at a time though, right? ;)
If you’re not sure where to start, or are looking for new/free content, the YouVersion Bible app has really great reading plans to encourage and teach.
As for WHERE to start in your Bible, I would encourage you to read through the Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke & John. They tell the story of Christ and how much He loves us, but from four slightly different perspectives. It’s neat to see the overlaps and differences of the four different authors.
The Psalms are also beautiful to read. They are mostly written by King David and are full of lament and praise. Talk about relatable! Psalm 1 is a beautiful chapter to read and study. Write it down and commit to memorizing it.
Another aspect of my morning time is journaling. Journaling is a helpful supplement for me to read scripture and study. I will often write down scriptures and highlight key words. I also highlight key scriptures or words in my Bible. Crayons are a great highlighter tool, by the way ;) This is really helpful for me when I’m flipping through and wanting to find something quickly, before I’ve memorized the verse.
This is where having a women’s study Bible comes in handy. The sidebar of a study bible features additional information, which really turns on the lights for me. For example, I am reading through the Bible chronologically and recently read through the laws of the Old Testament regarding clean and unclean persons (Leviticus).
Because of my study Bible I learned that although a woman on her monthly cycle was considered unclean for seven days (which meant she couldn’t be around anyone or anything for seven days), she was able to experience a short break from daily cooking, cleaning, caring for family needs, etc. I love the beauty that comes from knowing the written word of God. This isn’t just a “law” to prevent, rather an opportunity to rest and refresh. Time after time, through my studying, I’m reminded of His lovingkindness and grace.
Take this verse, for example: The Lord does not delay His promise, as some understand delay, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish but all to come to repentance, 2 Peter 3:9.
In a way, we can apply this verse to motherhood and how we care for our children. The purpose of me correcting my children isn’t, simply put, “to correct them”. And my correction doesn’t end with “the consequence”.
The purpose of correction is to teach my children right from wrong so they grow to live a fruitful and faithful life. I am patient with my children and want them near to me, all the days of their life. God desires the same thing for us; He wants us near. He loves us dearly and is so patient, as 2 Peter 3:9 shares.
Commit to spending time with the Lord regularly through scripture, song and prayer. Your time with Him is certainly blessed.
Please let me know how I can help you with your studying!
Oh, one more thing. I recently created this guide: 23 identities we bear when we are rooted in Christ. When the world feels loud, it’s good to step away and remember who you are in Christ. I picked just 23 reminders to share, though there are many, many more :) You can download the guide by clicking here.
Here’s a tiny preview of the 7-page document:
I’m praying for you!
xx, Maggie
PS. I know your time is likely stretched in a dozen different directions. Each day presents us with the opportunity to use our time however we wish. If you’re like me, your heart desires encouragement and peace. Spend time with the Lord, begin slow and stay committed. Perhaps you dig out your cake stand to hold your Bible on your kitchen counter? I know our kitchens are busy, messy places, but it’s the room I’m in the most (same for you?), so take advantage of that. Elevate your Bible on your beautiful cake stand and spend time in the greatest book ever written.
FROM THE ARCHIVES:
What do you consider “a good book”?
A tour of my houseplants + care tips
Soap suds and long-lasting comfort
Our summer schedule with young children
This is so inspiring, Maggie. I love how you point out the WHY behind the laws of God and the BEAUTY and tender loving-care in His words to us. Thank you for this post and for sharing how God and His Word are transforming you.
Thank you for sharing these things, Lauren! Glad to have your voice here. xx
Yes yes yes…. I love this so much, and it is so helpful. I want to add journaling into my morning routine. Do you just free write or do you have questions to get you started? Tell me more.
I often write out scripture or thoughts on whatever I’m currently studying. Through a lot of reading I came to notice the birth order of Moses and his two siblings: Miriam, Aaron, Moses. I thought there were a few interesting things about this, how Moses was called to lead (rather than Aaron who was older), though Moses needed Aaron’s help speaking. I also thought it was interesting Moses doubted God so many times prior to accepting His call on his life, and five times Moses doubted!
Simple things, but also very encouraging and relatable for me. So I just take notes on things like that and write them in my journal.
Other times I write out my prayers, stresses, thoughts… I don’t have any question prompts per say. I hope this is helpful! xx
My husband and I have started spending our mornings together and it has been a wonderful change in routine! Thank you for inspiring this!
This is so cool to hear!!!!!!! And hi friend! Are you studying anything in particular? xx
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