For people of many faiths, scripture is a way to connect to the divine and to better understand what God has to teach them. Almost all believers find themselves in a rut when it comes to reading holy texts at least once in their lives. When this happens to you, you probably just need to use a different approach. Here are some ways to get more out of your scripture reading.

Change Your Reading Method

You may feel anxious when your daily spiritual practice starts to seem dry, but take heart. You are likely not bored with your whole belief system; you probably just need to change the way you read scripture. There are several different methods you can use to shake things up a bit:

• Read out loud. This method automatically requires you to slow down your reading rate. By taking a little more time to absorb the lessons and concepts within, you may discover new truths you otherwise would have missed.
• Listen to a recorded audio version while driving or doing chores. While you may have a specific time you set aside to read scripture daily, a lot can happen between sessions. Listening to it on the go or while you're doing a mindless task keeps it fresh in your mind throughout the day.
• Read the same passage three times. The first time, read it straight through. The second time, jot down words or phrases that jump out at you and reflect on why you think they seem important. Then read the passage a third time with those reflections in mind.

Incorporate Scripture Into Prayer or Meditation

It is common for people of faith, particularly those in Western cultures, to separate the different rituals they use in worship. Compartmentalizing the tools you use to connect with God isn't really necessary, though. If you pray or meditate at the same time you read scripture every day, try combining the two practices. This small change can breathe new life into both. 

Set a Personal Reading Goal

Another possible reason for your rut is that you may just not be challenged enough. If you are motivated by setting and achieving goals, you can use this proclivity to your advantage. Set a scripture reading goal. For example, you may decide you want to read the whole Bible in a year. Having a clear task in mind and charting your progress can renew your excitement and thus result in spiritual rewards too.

Use a Supplemental Commentary To Guide You

A lifelong faith is often characterized by a natural ebb and flow of inspiration. After all, if you've read your holy scriptures many times throughout the years, it may be difficult to glean new insights as you get older. This is a great time to rely on the resources of scholars who have studied the scriptures and shared their wisdom. Ask trusted religious leaders for recommendations of supplemental commentaries they have enjoyed.

Read With Other People

Finally, remember that any faith is best lived in community with others. Your organization probably already has a scripture study class or group available for you to join. If not, consider starting a small group of your own. Reading and discussing scripture with others who share your faith is a good way to remind yourself how rich and vibrant the holy texts can be.

If reading scripture feels more like a chore to check off your to-do list than the life-giving ritual it's meant to be, you may just need to adjust how you approach it. A small tweak or two can invigorate your study and help you get more out of it.