Digging Deep. Reaching Out.
“Digging Deep. Reaching Out.”
I’ve used this as my theme since coming to Ingomar Baptist Church because it captures what we are called to be as a church. We are called to dig deep into God’s Word, and we are called to reach out with the gospel to the people around us.
I often picture a large oak tree—strong and steady. Its roots dig deep into the ground, supporting a wide canopy of branches and leaves that stretch outward. Without deep roots, the canopy could not spread. Without the canopy, the roots would eventually wither.
A tree needs both. A church does too.
Discipleship means digging deep into the Word.
Evangelism means reaching out with the Word.
Planned Bible Reading
Let’s read through the Old Testament together!
Beginning Monday, January 5, we will read two chapters each weekday. On the first day, we will read Genesis 1 and Psalm 1. Each day includes:
- One chapter from the historical storyline of the Old Testament
- One chapter from the poetry books
The goal is to build a simple, sustainable habit of daily Bible reading. This plan is designed to be accessible for everyone—including children.
Not every chapter of the Bible is included. Some genealogical sections are skipped, as well as chapters that repeat information already covered earlier. While this plan is not exhaustive, anyone who begins and finishes it will gain a much stronger understanding of the Old Testament than when they started.
Why Read the Bible Together as a Church?
Reading the Bible builds biblical literacy.
By the end of the plan, you’ll know details about the Tower of Babel, a giant with six fingers, the building of the Temple—and much more.
Reading the Bible together builds community.
Each Sunday, you’ll be reading the same passages as the people sitting next to you in worship or in your Sunday School class. You’ll be able to share what stood out to you, what you learned, or how God used that passage in your life during the week.
When Should You Do Your Reading?
Every day.
I encourage you to read each day’s passage daily rather than saving all ten chapters for one day. A steady stream of water from a soaker hose is better for a garden than a sudden flood. The same is true with Bible reading—let the Word soak into your life throughout the week.
Each morning (if possible).
I can already hear the protests: “But Bro. Thomas, I’m not a morning person!”
I’m not either—but I’ve found mornings work best for me.
Here’s why:
- In the morning, there are fewer distractions. My mind isn’t cluttered with the day’s conversations or unfinished tasks.
- When I read in the morning, God uses that passage throughout the day. I meditate on it as the day unfolds.
- When I read at night, I often go to sleep and forget it. When I read in the morning, it shapes my thoughts and sets the tone for the day.
What If I Fall Behind?
Nothing. We won’t be mad at you.
- Start up — If you haven’t started yet, just jump in.
- Catch up — If you’re a day or two behind, read a little extra for a few days.
- Pick up — If you’re way behind, simply pick up where everyone else is.
The goal is faithfulness, not perfection.
What Translation Should I Read?
The best translation is the one you can understand.
Even better—the translation you will actually read.
**If you have any questions, then please let me know.**