I don’t have the time.
People may assume that the journal and Bible reading will take an inordinate amount of time. The average time someone will spend will be approx. 10-15 minutes. Let’s be honest, everyone has this amount of time in their day or evening. For those who claim they do not, there is a deeper issue at work.

I don’t understand what I read.
We are naturally resistant to things that are difficult to understand, especially when it comes to the Bible. If the Bible seems daunting, then journaling about what you read could be a huge obstacle for people. The goal each day is to find ONE verse that connects with your heart and mind. And we have help, the Spirit of God helps us understand the Scriptures as we read them. God will speak to you through His Word and will be your help.

I’ll just fall behind, so why start?
Many of us don’t start things we don’t think we can finish such as diet/fitness plans, home projects and the like. This can easily be a fear when it comes to reading through the New Testament. Life is going to get in the way occasionally with the L3 Journal and you may miss a day here and there. But the freeing thing is that there is no pressure to “make up” the day that you missed. If people try to catch back up, they will simply read through the chapters to check the box, which isn’t the point.

I’m no writer.
The great thing about the L3 Journal is that how much you write is completely up to you. Some people may choose to journal by posting on Facebook or a blog online, which is totally fine. Writing your thoughts down helps God’s Word “stick” to you throughout your day and is an important aspect of Bible reading. Cut yourself some slack...no one has to read what you write anyway!

I just don’t want to do it.
Finally, we get to the heart of the matter. People are responsible for their own journey with Christ. As a church we are responsible to you to help provide methods and opportunities for you to grow spiritually. But ultimately, it comes down to your decision. There’s no formula to spiritual growth BUT you cannot get around the vital importance of personally reading and applying God’s Word. This is an absolute truth: we must connect with God in His Word to grow in wisdom, understanding and influence. We want everyone at Fellowship to participate in this. This journal effort will be our best approach to date to do this as a community.

Thanks but I do my own thing.
We realize that some people have been digging into God’s Word for themselves (which is awesome). For some of you, you have a routine in place. We ask that you would seriously consider the L3 Journal. Trying a new approach can be refreshing, and you will be an encouragement to others who have not yet developed a daily routine of getting into God’s Word. Our challenge to you is to participate and model the L3 Journal in your groups. This is something that the entire church leadership (Elders, staff, ministry leaders, deacons, etc...) will be doing as an example for others to follow.

Are any of these fears or hesitations realities for you? If so, how can we encourage you?
Next week we’ll look at helps and hints that will be provided to people along the way that will assist people in understanding and applying God’s Word in their own lives.