One thing, and only one thing, is necessary for Christian life, righteousness, and freedom. That one thing is the most holy Word of God, the gospel of Christ, as Christ says, John 11[:25], ‘I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live’; and John 8[:36], ‘So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed’; and Matt 4[:4], ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’ Let us then consider it certain and firmly established that the soul can do without anything except the Word of God and that where the Word of God is missing there is no help at all for the soul. If it has the Word of God it is rich and lacks nothing since it is the Word of life, truth, light, peace, righteousness, salvation, joy, liberty, wisdom, power, grace, glory, and of every incalculable blessing. This is why the prophet in the entire Psalm [119] and in many other places yearns and sighs for the Word of God and uses so many names to describe it.”

-Martin Luther

Yes, the Word of God is necessary! It is a priceless treasure. We who have it are truly blessed and rich beyond measure. And yet, “finding” the time or desire to take in God’s Word can be a challenge. 

As an encouragement and practical advice, I suggest that you simply make reading the Bible part of your daily routine. Make it a priority, knowing how necessary it is. Pick a time of the day that works, especially if you are doing this with others in your household, and stick to that same time every day. Start small and easy if you want with shorter readings and prayer to help establish the routine. When you miss a day, just pick it up the next day. Find a method or devotional resource that works for you. Our congregation’s weekly “Guide to Daily Prayer and Devotions” is intended to help you in your devotions, whether you use all or parts of it. It can also connect members around the same scripture and catechism lessons. (Since the readings correspond to the daily lectionary in our hymnal and the “Treasury of Daily Prayer”, it also connects us to Lutherans around the world going through the same text.) 

If you would like help finding a resource or developing a routine, please let me know. I am also happy to discuss with you any observations you make or questions that arise from your time in the Word. 

And, in addition to Sunday divine services, you can take in God’s Word at Sunday morning Bible class, Wednesday at the 9:30am study of the upcoming readings, and Wednesday at the 6:30pm divine services. Your soul will appreciate the nourishment.