Scripture Meditation: John Chrysostom on Daily Bible Reading

John Chrysostom lamented the neglect of Scripture among the laity. He preached: "This is the cause of all evils: the not knowing the Scriptures. We go into battle without arms, and how are we to come off safe?" Chrysostom insisted that Bible reading was not the exclusive province of monks and clergy but the duty and privilege of every Christian.

He gave practical counsel: "I exhort you, not only to attend to what is said here, but also when you are at home, to persevere continually in reading the divine Scriptures. When you are about to take food, before you begin, give thanks; and when you have finished, do not forget to give thanks. After supper, take up the sacred books."

Practical application: Commit to reading one chapter of the Bible every evening after dinner for thirty days. Chrysostom's advice is simple: make Scripture reading as regular as eating. Keep your Bible in the same place you eat so the physical connection reinforces the habit.