A Woman's Guide to Reading the Bible in a Year - A Life-Changing Journey Into the Heart of God

Every year, I begin with the same thoughts: This year, I'm going to dive into the Bible with gusto! I'm going to follow a Bible-in-a-year reading plan. I.am.going.to.read.the.whole.Bible.this.year. I do pretty well for three or four weeks, re-reading Genesis, getting through Exodus . . . . One time, I even made it all the way through Isaiah. But, eventually, my good intentions fall away, my fatigue and busy schedule take preeminence, and I stop reading. Usually in fits, missing a day here and there, then whole weeks; I try to read enough to catch up, but by March, I've given up completely. I still read my Bible, but not daily and not in any organized fashion.

Sound familiar? What can we busy moms do to keep ourselves grounded in the Word, without adding guilt onto our heads?

Enter A Woman's Guide to Reading the Bible in a Year by Diane Stortz, published by Bethany House Publishers. Diane has not only provided a daily guide to reading the Word, she has offered encouragement for the journey, as well.

The first part of A Woman's Guide to Reading the Bible in a Year is a series of testimonials given by women whose lives were changed by reading through the Bible with a small group. I love this idea. As women, we hunger for relational learning. I have always stalled in my Bible-in-a-year reading, but if I felt part of a community, all facing similar struggles, where I could safely share not only my failures, but also my triumph, perhaps I could keep my momentum. The testimonials are uplifting and encouraging, pointing to the love of Christ, not the legalistic reading of His word.

Next up are brief guidelines and explanations for using the plan, both individually and in a group. Diane also includes a very brief overview of the Bible and how it came to be what we read today.

Finally, come the reading lists. Each weekly reading comes with a brief introduction, the chapters to read, main ideas (checkpoints) from the reading, and an opportunity to journal your thoughts or insights.

I really appreciate the simplicity of hte reading plan, which alternates between Old and New Testament writings, as well as the brief commentaries. I'm excited again to jump into the Bible this year, but this time, I'm considering organizing a few other women who might like to join me and discuss our readings. Even if it is only or or two others who want tot get together over a Skype or Google chat, I believe this concept of community will greatly encourage us as believers.

I give A Woman's Guide to Reading the Bible in a Year five stars.

**I received a free review copy from Bethany House Publishers in exchange for a review. My views are my own.**

My Impressions:

There are a lot of Bible reading plans out there. Plans to help you tackle the daunting task of reading the Bible through in a year. But Diane Stortz's A Woman's Guide to Reading The Bible in A Year is the first one I have seen that is especially for women and for use in a group! The book begins with personal stories of how reading the Bible in a year impacted lives. Then it moves on to practical tips for use in a group setting. It also includes an overview of just where our present Bible came from. And then the adventure begins! Each week presents an overview of the week's scripture passages, a seven day plan and a few questions to facilitate group discussion. I think this book would be great for mentoring, lunch groups, weekly Bible study or anytime that women want to get together to discover God's Truth. It can definitely be used for solo reading, but the design for group study brings a richer experience. The back of the book presents Biblical timelines, a complete reading plan and helpful resources. This book is definitely the whole package. So if you want to embark on a life-changing journey along with your friends or co-workers, pick up A Woman's Guide to Reading the Bible in A Year.

Highly Recommended.

(I received this book compliments of Bethany House Publishers. The opinions expressed are mine alone.)

The following is from the back cover of this book...
"I didn't start to really know God until I made knowing Him my goal as I read the Bible. Getting to know God changed me. It changed how I think and what I do. It changes me still"

Below is a sample week from this book...

Week 1 of the Journey
Beginnings

The Old Testament (old covenant) of the Bible tells the story of the relationship between God and humanity before the birth of Jesus. Genesis, the first book of the Old Testament, is a book of beginnings: the creation of the world and the first human beings, the development of nations, and the start of the family that would eventually be the Jewish people, chosen by God for a special purpose. Genesis also presents the entrace of sin into the world and its effects on all creation.
God's covenant with Abram (Abraham), beginning in chapter 12, initiates God's plan to bless the world and save humanity through Abraham's family. A covenant was a binding, legal agreement, usually between two people and with promises made by both sides. God's promises to Abraham, however, were unconditional. God would do what he said. Abraham had only to believe and obey.
Genesis is part of the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible (also called the books of law), which were written by Moses. The genealogies in Genesis don't necessarily include every generation but show connections and continuity, linking important people or periods.
Read
* Genesis 1-3
* Genesis 4-6
* Genesis 7-9
* Genesis 10-12
* Genesis 13-15
* Genesis 16-18
* Genesis 19-21
Checkpoints

* angels and a flaming sword
* a man who didn't die
* the first rainbow
* heavenly visitors
* a pillar of salt

Share the Journey
How did you experience God's heart in this week's reading?
Something you learned or an insight you gained

A verse or passage you'd like to remember

Questions

Your decision to open the Bible every day to look into the mirror and see truth from God makes you a light in a world filled with much darkness. --Catherine Martin

I have read the Bible in its entirety several times, but lately I have been struggling to do so again. I pick a Scripture everyday yet, I do not sit down and actually read it...I have seen and printed out and copied several plans to read my Bible in a year, but to my demise I have not....even knowing it is the most important thing I need to do.....
This book is UNIQUE in how Diane helps you do this simple thing that can change your life forever. She gives you encouragement and VERY simple ways to keep on track...and if for some reason you get off track there is HOPE....

Plain and simple is this helpful book...There are no long and drawn out "ways to do", there is only Truth, Love, Peace, Joy and more in making this the number goal in your life. I know too many people who go to church and listen to whoever is preaching and never go into His Word to see if they are being taught His Word correctly.

I live in a very small town and I am on a very limited income. I do not go to a church but I am trying to get back on track by reading His Word daily and Diane you have helped me to do so.
YES I recommend this book to ALL woman and even Younger women....I would even say ages 7 and up!!! Because it is that important....if they can read and understand then they need to read this book and use it to help them read the Bible EVERY year...!

May the grace of God engulf you and may God continue to use you in helping others to read their Bible in a year and every year!!!!!!! In Jesus Matchless Name AMEN.

Please visit Diane at [...]

I received this book for free from [...] in return for my honest opinion

Reading and understanding the Bible is an achievable goal for everyone. In her new book, Diane Stortz gives wonderful tips and tools for "a life-changing journey into the heart of God.

Reading the Bible doesn't take a lot of time each day, but to get to the meat of the message, some thoughtful study is needed. This book is broken into 52 weekly lessons around topics like: "Chosen by God," and "Back to Egypt," with Bible passages to read, a thought to meditate on, and some "Checkpoints." At the end of the book are timelines, resources, references, and a through the year guide to reading the Bible. Following her plan, you can read through the Bible and gain knowledge and power from that reading.

This book looks at reading the Bible in a year through a new lens for me. The weekly chapters give so much to think about and meditate on. It hits topics differently from daily devotionals and "Through the Bible in a Year" programs. They all work, so I encourage you to find the one that works best for you. Take your personal Bible reading and study to that next level. I received my free review copy from Bethany House in exchange for an honest review.

I received this book today and read through the first part that describes the book and how to use it, plus the first ten weeks of the yearly plan. Not wanting to spoil the whole surprise of the book, I stopped there and will read each week as I come to it.

I've wanted to read through the whole Bible for a long time, but it seemed so daunting. Even though I love to read, the Bible is a really big book. But Stortz has broken it down in an easily manageable way--3 chapters a day, 15-20 minutes of reading a day.

This book is not just a plan on how to read through the Bible, she also gives a summary each week of what the chapters are saying. Basic background information that makes the reading easier to connect with. The whole book makes the Bible more understandable and makes connections between books and events so that the history of the Bible makes sense.

If you are looking to read through the Bible and want a guide to help you along the way, this is a great resource. I plan to start reading through the Bible in a year starting today.

**Thank you Bethany House Publishers for giving me a copy of this book to review. All of the opinions expressed in this review are my own.**

This book was a very quick read. However, there is a lot of meat in those pages! I took it to bed with me one evening, read the whole book, and was ready to start my own women's reading group!
The book starts out telling you how to use the program with a group of women. The program is really quite simple and would be easy to put a program together for a group of women. It would require a weekly commitment on the part of the members; but it would certainly be well worth it! Not only would you accomplish reading the entire Bible in a year, but you'd be bonding with other ladies and making lifelong friends.
Following the introductory materials, there are 52 weekly pages - 2-page spreads for each week. These contain the daily reading list, checkpoints (sort of like a "scavenger hunt" of things to look for in your reading throughout the week), a motivational quote, and "share the journey" questions (journal your thoughts from the week). Also included is some introductory material for each week's scripture passages.
I just love the approach and set-up. One little book containing everything you need to do a women's Bible study/fellowship for a full year. Wow! At the price of only $9.99, this book is well worth it!

There are many, many Bible reading plans available for those interested in having a guide in how to get through the Word of God from cover to cover in a manner that doesn't seem greatly overwhelming. One of the problems with many of these plans is that you have to start on a certain day of the year (typically January 1st) in order to follow the plan correctly. Another problem that can occur is no or little accountability. It's easy to fall behind and then continue to lag until you just give up if you don't have someone to encourage you along the way. This is where A Woman's Guide to Reading the Bible in a Year by Diane Stortz comes in and gives your Bible reading plan a boost!

Designed specifically for women, this guide heartily suggests gathering up a group of your girlfriends and making this journey together. While it can be done on your own, the great benefits of having ongoing support and encouragement are outlined well here. The readings can also be started at any time, so you don't have to wait until the New Year to dive in.

The book begins with some stories from women who have taken the Bible reading journey together. There meetings go far beyond and deeper than just checking in to say, "I finished the required reading." You'll read stories of friendship and sisterhood that are very heartwarming. Following that, you'll find a section on how to use the book and then some guidelines for how to utilize it in the group setting.

Once you get to the meat of the book, you'll find the readings gathered together by week rather than by day. I particularly liked this format because it is more streamlined and easy to gauge where I was and where I would be going next without looking through a large list. Each week has a short snippet that describes the themes or happenings of the week's readings and checkpoints that help you keep track of what you have read. At the end of the week, there is a "Share the Journey" portion that leaves room for you to jot down questions, favorite verses/stories, etc. for further study.

Overall, this particular reading guide seemed to feel more personal, like a friend threw it together for you, thinking of your own personality and likes, rather than it being some intimidating list handed down from a hard nosed bible-reading authority figure. This sitting down at the kitchen table with a buddy approach provided additional "oomph" to actually building a desire to commit and complete the journey of reading the entire Bible in one year. As Christians, we really should get deep into God's Word, exploring all it's corners. How can we grow closer to our beloved Savior if we don't at least try? That where a good solid guide is key. This book fits that bill. I plan to utilize it again, hopefully getting a few friends to join me!

I received my copy of this book from Bethany House Publisher and have an interest in reading it to see if I would use it.

I am thrilled to have this book in hand. (I am an avid reader and I already have the habit of reading my Bible through each year.) I also am always on the look out for guides to help me in my reading thru the Bible, tools that encourage me to ponder, apply, and share the journey through - what a difference guides make over just a read thru on one's own. This book is one that I highly recommend for not just women, but also for men.

Here is a guide that a group of two or more may use to share one's responses and questions from reading each week, sharing 'aha' moments, and new understandings of God as the story unfolds through His Word. The time spent in conversation will also cause us to grow closer to one another. We'll gain not only from our own reading but also from the group members with whom we share the journey.

This would be a best choice for groups to use - it will benefit and bless those who have never read through the Bible, those who have tried to read through the Bible, and those who are in the habit of doing so.

Call some friends, email, text, blog, or start an online group. Start the journey of taking in God's Word together.

You will never regret it. My life has been profoundly changed by my annual reading through the Bible with others and a guide. This guide will be my guide for 2013.

This is a very good devotional that guides the reader to read the entire Bible in one year. It is written in 52 easy to understand weekly sessions that include a description, a list of scriptures for each day of the week and a list of focused word for the week. The chapters also include a series of questions for each week that encourage the reader to explore those readings and what they mean for that person's life. This would make an ideal guide for a woman who wants to read through the Bible. The book also includes a list of scriptural readings at the end of the book for easy reference. It combines reading the New and Old Testaments alternately throughout the year.

I was provided a a complimentary copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers. I was not obligated to write a positive review. The opinions in this review are my own.

One thing that I’ve struggled with in reading the Bible in a year is the fact that it takes a lot of time, time that usually a mom of three young-ish children doesn’t usually have, and the fact that I really want to understand what I’m reading versus just reading to say I’ve read it. Many people read through the Bible in a year, but if you retain or learn nothing from it then it’s all for naught. So when I had the chance to review the book, A Woman’s Guide to Reading the Bible in a Year I jumped at it because I wanted something to guide me in not just reading the Bible in a year but actually making it relevant as well as learning from it. Since it’s written by a woman for women it means that it will help us as we read through the Bible and making it meaningful to us.

I admit I struggle through a lot of the Old Testament books like Leviticus and Deuteronomy with all the Laws – it’s hard to follow and really understand – but I know it’s vital as a Christian who follows Christ, who was raised a Jew – to understand our past history. Don’t feel that you must begin on January 1st, the pages are numbered but not dated, so you can begin any time on your Bible reading journey (awesome). The guide is meant to be used with whichever Bible translation you chose and avoids doctrinal issues so it can be used by any Christian who knows the Bible is the inerrant Word of God. It’s encouraged that you write something each week in the “share the journey” area and if you fall behind, just simply pick back up where you left off – there is no right or wrong way to do this – just a commitment to delve into and understand God’s Word.

Each week there will be a short introduction to that weeks reading and then a small box which outlines your reading assignments that week, usually two to three chapters which could take up to 30 minutes (if you have extra time, you can read ahead, or split it up during the day!), and some checkpoints – key ideas that are covered in that week’s reading. After that is quote from a famous person or theologian that will also inspire and of course, the “share the journey” area where you can journal, or get your own feminine journal to write in. Don’t forget it’s a journey and all about getting to know the Lord – keep Him in your thoughts and seek Him in prayer throughout and your mind will learn a lot in reading through the Bible in a Year!

**I was given a copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest opinion no other compensation was given.

The story behind the writing of this book is heartwarming. Nothing is better than women getting together to share and learn. The author of this book gained her inspiration from a women's bible study group she was apart of. The idea behind this book is to form a small group to study the bible together for one year. The book is structure so that each woman knows what to read and study at home and then come to the weekly meeting prepared with questions and insites on the reading. I found this book intriguing and one I would love to use someday with a women's group. You can use this guide yourself to read the bible in a year. The weekly readings give you a good mix of old and new testament and would help you to keep on track if you are wanting to finish a goal.

Thank you to the publisher for the free copy.

I just finished reading the book, A Woman's Guide To Reading The Bible In A Year by Diane Stortz from Bethany House. I highly recommend this book. Have you tried to read the Bible and found you ran out of time, or it was too hard to understand or you just got tired because it was so much to read and sometimes a little boring? I've been there.

It is simple and you complete only 3 chapters a day, less than twenty minutes, and a short devotion each week . This book made reading through the Bible so much easier for me so far this year.

In this book you truly get to know God - the promises of God are shared. I loved how God's holiness is shown in this book. I loved how it made the Word come alive to me like never before.

Love this book and highly recommend it if you are reading through your Bible this year, and if you aren't, pick up this book and see how it will make the Bible so much simpler to read in the future.

This book can be started at any time. You do not have to wait for January so why not start it now. The book assignments are numbered by week (52 weeks) and the three chapters per day can be read in less than twenty minutes a day. Each devotion blessed my heart.

I received a copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Net Galley can be found at [...]
I originally asked for this book because the new year is almost upon us....once we get through Christmas. Even though I have gone through 7 years of Catholic education, was an altar girl for 3 years, and could consider myself Catholic for 10 years of my life, I haven't ever read the entire Bible. As a reader, that would make it high up on my Reading Bucket List (if I had one).
This was a really quick, one day read, and I can't wait to start into my Bible-reading journey of 2013. The way the author presents it, its not a dry 3 chapter a day Bible reading plan. Though I don't quite understand the why's behind the reason of switching back and forth in some weeks between Old Testament and New Testament, at least I won't get bored.
It appeals to my sense of ADD that I sometimes get reading a book, and she introduces what's happening during that historical period with an interesting language.
Even though this is my first "Read the Bible in a Year" plan that I've come across, it seems like it is one of the better ones.

When I was pregnant with my second baby, I decided that I would try to read the Bible through in a year. I found a One Year Bible and got into the habit of reading while I ate breakfast. That was in 2004, and I have read through my Bible every year since then. I've tried different versions (I really like the chronological version) and even made my own plan. This year, I'm just reading 5 chapters a day--and I started with the NT, rather than the OT.

When I got the chance to review Diane Stortz' A Woman's Guide to Reading the Bible in a Year, I knew I had to check it out. The book begins with several testimonials from women who started a read the Bible in a year program. This is a great way to start out the book--reading through the Bible can seem intimidating, and sharing with readers what a difference it's made in the lives of others is a great way to show it's possible & worth doing. Stortz also gives some basic background information on the Bible itself, which is interesting and sets the stage.

The rest of the book is divided into chapters by week. Each week contains a devotional highlighting a passage or key point in the week's readings, a checklist of readings for each day, key points to look for, and a small section to reflect. Here, readers can jot down what they learned, a verse they'd like to remember, and any questions they have.

This book is a great resource for women who want to start reading the Bible consistently, but aren't sure where to start. The devotional and the space for reflection makes it very "woman-friendly." I also like that there are tips for reading in a group--even if you're just reading with one friend. The only thing I'd like to see is the actual text of the Bible. Not including it allows readers to use whatever version (or multiple versions!) they like, but I like the simplicity of having it all in one place.

**Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.**

Have you ever wanted to start a Bible study group or read the Bible through in a year? Pick up this little book and learn how to get started. The book begins by telling the author's story about her journey through the Bible. It then has a few chapters that explain how to start a group and use the book effectively . Then each week is a separate chapter that gives the Bible verses to read and a brief synopsis on what you will read that week. There is also space to write thoughts and favorite verses.
It can be used for individuals or a women's Bible study group.

I found the format easy to read and use. The book was laid out well and really encouraged me to start reading my Bible through this year. I look forward to showing this to my Bible study group when we finish with our current book.

I received this book free of charge from Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.

How many times have we told ourselves that we were going to read the entire Bible in a year? To the point of printing out reading schedules, dutifully checking off each days reading plan, and than you get to the book of Leviticus or halfway through Numbers and find your motivation waning. In this book Stortz helps to guide us and encourages each of us to read the Bible with a small group, although she says that you can do it individually Stortz explains that when reading the Bible with a group provides accountability as well as a place to grow.

Each section provides a reading plan for the week, a general synopsis, as well as things to look for as you read as well as talking points to discuss each week. This is a great book for those who are looking to read the entire for the first time, or for the person who is reading it for the fiftieth time.

I received this book complimentary from Bethany House publishers in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This is an easy to read encouraging plan for reading the Bible in one year. The writer gets off to a great start by introducing herself and some other women with sweet and inspiring stories. She also explains how to use the book.

The format is set up for optimal success. A week by week guide not dictated by dates, check off boxes, and room to write thoughts in the book. Each week has a common theme, and there are a few paragraphs that introduce the readings.

Although week one does begin with Genesis, the path is not from cover to cover in a straight line. The reader will weave their way through the pages and complete the reading of a 66 book Bible of their choice in 52 weeks.

I received this book as a Bethany House review item. Although it was provided to me at no cost, my opinions are always genuine.

I thought this book would have a little more meat to it! It is a decent book but not one of the best for understanding the Bible. It divides the Bible up into passages to read so you can read the Bible through in a year. I gave this book 4/5 stars. I liked that the book was geared towards women. I did however think that it could have used more substance. I would recommend this book for any woman who has not read through the Bible before. You will find the plan easy to follow and the author's guidance will make it easier to understand.

I would like to thank the publisher for the copy of this book I enjoyed reading. I gave an honest review based on my opinion of what I read.

My full video review here[...]
Really really good! Unlike any bible guide out there. Easy to read and easy to use. Very personal. The author shares stories from her personal life as well as other women in her bible study group. Loved it!