Hey hey Monday!
Okay, you guys…I’m officially 101 days into The Bible Recap and loving it SO MUCH that I thought it deserved its own dedicated post 🙂 .
If you’ll recall, at the end of last year, I knew I wanted to read through the Bible (I’ve done it twice before using The One Year Bible), but after hearing so many friends and family members rave about The Bible Recap, I decided to go this route instead and have LOVED IT! I talked so much about it that my mom is now doing it too. Since I’ve officially done it 100 days, I thought it was the perfect time to share my tips and suggestions and hopefully encourage you to try reading the Bible all the way through too.
To be clear, everyone should visit Tara-Leigh Cobble’s website for all the information. You can read all about how to “do it” HERE on her site. That being said, there are several different ways you can “tweak” your study and after trying it two different ways, I think I’ve officially settled on what works best for me.
For starters…you need a Bible. I love my New Living Translation Life Application Study Bible. That’s the primary version of the Bible I pick up and use every single day. That being said, no matter which Bible version you use (or you can even use a Bible app like the YouVersion app), you need God’s word in front of you since that’s the whole point…reading through it from start to finish in chronological order. Awwwwww…what does that mean? Well, the One Year Bible that I completed twice was great, but it did not go chronologically. If you read through it that way, then every single day, you get an Old Testament chapter, a New Testament chapter, one Psalm and a Proverb. I liked that way of reading through the Bible, but I now MUCH prefer this way of reading through the scripture chronologically. I find that it all comes together much more clearly for me this way since it builds upon each other day after day. Plus, it’s SO COOL to see Jesus all the way through the Bible (yes, even years before He was born, He was there).
Next up, you need to know what to read each day. Her program is divided into 365 days with only 2 to 4 chapters of the Bible read each day. It’s amazing to me how I can read so little and yet, over a year, it adds up to so much. There are a variety of ways to know what to read each day. I purchased (as you can see in the first picture) her The Bible Recap book and her The Bible Recap Journal. Each day is clearly labeled with the scripture you should read. In the Recap book, she has about one and a half pages of commentary for you to read after you read her Bible. Honestly? That’s really all you have to do. Read the scripture, read her commentary…you’re on your way. I bought the journal where she prompts you to write notes, questions and there is a space where I write out personal prayer requests. This is a *bonus* step for sure but one I’ve enjoyed.
In London with my Bible Recap Journal.
Now, fast forward to my trips to London and Hawaii…on those trips, I didn’t want to lug my big Recap book with me, so I just brought my phone and her Journal. Each day, I read the scripture on my YouVersion Bible app and then I listened to her daily podcast commentary (instead of reading it in the book). Each podcast episode on her app is only about 5 or 6 minutes long each day, and I FELL IN LOVE with her audio version here. When I returned home from London, I started reading out of the Recap book and also listening to the audio, but after Hawaii (where I did the same routine as in London), I decided I much prefer to hear her slightly expanded audio commentary on the app and now, so I don’t even read out of the Recap book.
Make sense?
Okay, let’s recap the way I Recap…
#1: Each morning, I open up my The Bible Recap Journal to see what chapters of the Bible I’m reading that day. I read those chapters.
#2: After I read, I turn on her daily podcast where she reads her daily commentary (that’s also printed in the book) that expands and ties together what I just read. She presents the day’s reading in a ‘recap’ kind of way that really ensures I get all the details and how they tie together. I loved reading out of the big The Bible Recap book, but I do find that she expands just a touch more during each morning’s podcast episode.
#3: After I listen to her commentary, I open my The Bible Recap Journal and make notes about that day’s reading and write down my prayer requests.
#4: I pray.
Woohoo! Yesterday morning, I flipped over and completed Day 100! I get excited every single morning to sit down and see what I’m going to read and learn that day.
This is what the app looks like if you’re adding it to your phone.
So, I’ve really enjoyed these last 100 days and wanted to share my enthusiasm with you. I think the timing couldn’t be more perfect considering it’s Easter week 🙂 . For all of the information and ways to read through the Bible this way, head to her site.
If you have any questions about the way I do it, I’m happy to answer in the comment section below too.
Don’t forget to read my 25 Keys to a Peaceful Morning post too for more ways to make your morning more calm and less crazy. Starting each day with my quiet time in God’s word is the perfect way to help cultivate that!
Happy Monday, friends! xx
TB says
Thank you so much for this post!! This is something my mom and I have talked about!! Question, does the book and journal both tell you what chapters to read each day and then you can listen to the accompanying podcast?
Mix and Match Mama says
Yes! They both have the chapters listed at the top of each day, so if I were doing it over again, I would probably only buy the journal. You just have to make sure you’re reading the commentary out of the big book or listening to the podcast each day though as that’s the “recap” part.
TB says
Awesome!!! Thank you so much for sharing!! ?
Erika Slaughter says
I’m so glad you’re loving it!
Beth Knecht says
Shay, will you please continue praying for our sweet son. 10 months old and has had an infection for 5 months. CDiff to be specific. It is miserable and so rare for babies to get. The doctors keep saying they can’t be certain he has it because most babies are colonized with it and don’t get an infection. The sweet boy has not slept through the night since Halloween and is up crying every. single. night. Today we get a new antibiotic and are hoping that it gets rid of the infection. We don’t know what else to do, but it has been so debilitating mentally and physically. Any prayers are so greatly appreciated!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh Beth! You’re one of my sweet, most faithful blog commenters. I’m going to stop right now and pray for your sweet boy. Please keep me posted!
Marla says
I am including your son in my daily prayers. May you feel the peace that only He can bring. God bless you
Beth Knecht says
Thank you all! Your prayers are so appreciated, more than we could ever thank you!
Jodi says
Praying for your son!!!
Laura says
Praying!
Elspeth says
Thank you so much for this post! It was so interesting and informative!! Happy Monday!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Aileen says
I’m doing the Bible recap this year too! It’s my first time doing it and I love it too. I usually read the Bible assignment for the day, read the recap in the book, and then when I’m getting ready for work I listen to the recap on the podcast again just to let it sink it one more time. I’m a little behind – on day 60 because I was still finishing up my Advent study in January, ha – but I love it so much!
Sheaffer says
Thanks for breaking this down! If I do this, it will be quite the accomplishment!!!!
Rene' Pingel says
I’m doing it, too and loving it as well. Tara-Leigh Cobble can really recap it in such an easy to understand way. Such a blessing!
Traci says
I am on my second year of the Bible recap and I can’t imagine starting my day any other way!!! So glad you love it too!!
Laurie says
The way it works for me is the “Bible in a year” podcast by Father Mike. Excellant!! I’m not catholic but just enjoy those 15-20 minutes per day. It’s the highest rated podcast in the world! Check it out!!
Julie says
I do Bible in a Year with Fr. Mike Schmitz too! Love his commentaries and highly recommend his podcast. There have been several times when I listen to the Bible reading for the day and not really understand what’s going on and then Fr. Mike does his commentary and everything makes more sense!
Kristen says
Also doing Bible in a Year! I am Catholic, but was so inspired by Annie F. Downs and her podcast episode with Fr. Mike! It’s been such a blessing and thrilled others are finding the best way that works for them.
Arlene says
I am doing this study as well. I would add that if you use the YouVersion Bible app, you can sign up for this study and it has a short devotional and each day’s verses ready for you each day as soon as you open the app.
JoAnn says
If I don’t buy the bib recap book, where does it tell me what to read for the day? The app?
Mix and Match Mama says
When you look at the podcast, each episode is labeled with the Day and the Scripture. For instance, today’s podcast title was Day 101 (1 Samuel 13-14).
April says
I started this plan last year after seeing someone, maybe Erika, talk about it. I use the YouVersion app on my phone and it has a Bible Recap reading plan. You can actually have it read the scripture to you. And I agree I love the podcast for the commentary and listening to her “God shot”. And I love ending with her reminding us that “He’s where the joy is”.
Dana P says
Thanks, Shay! I’m always looking for ways to change up my Bible reading a little. Are the readings listed for each day somewhere else or do you have to have the journal as well? I’ve found I don’t really stick with journals.
Mix and Match Mama says
The daily readings are listed at the top of each page of the book, the journal and the title of each podcast episode, so you do not need to purchase any of the books (though I recommend at least one of them!).
Alisa says
I love it too! Last year I did only the New Testament recap and started it over each quarter to really sink into it. I also did the Daily Study Guide for a little bit deeper dive into a few questions about the passage that day. This year I’m doing the whole Bible and loving it so much. Her podcast really helps connect things in the whole Bible and spurs me every day to explore what I learned about God that day in scripture. And days that are crazy I listen in the car to the You Version app read me the scriptures and then listen to the podcast. Being in the Word every day – finding time no matter what it looks like – is the best source of strength and encouragement for me and I hope others will be encouraged to check this out because of your post! Thank you for shining your light!
Debbie says
Thanks for this information as i have also wondered how this works. Do you have to start on January 1st?
Mix and Match Mama says
Nope! The days are numbered 1-365 and not by date. Start on Day 1 on whichever date you like!
Alaina Stultz says
How long does it typically take on a day to day basis?
Mix and Match Mama says
About 30 minutes but that includes my prayer time. The reading and podcast portions are only about 12 to 15 minutes.
Susan says
Isn’t it a great way to study God’s word daily?!?!? I started in January at the suggestion of a friend (and you)! Day 101 for me now.
Courtney B. says
Wishing you a blessed Holy Week. Thank you for taking time to share about how this works. Quick ?- doing the steps as you discovered works best for you, would you say this is approximately a half hour of time with the Lord and scripture? I want to include daily, set aside, purposeful time to grow in my faith and understanding of the Bible. May the hope of the Easter Resurrection bring you and your family joy all year!
Mix and Match Mama says
Great question! I would say that most days, this is about a 30 minute process including my time of prayer. The reading and listening to the podcast really only takes about 12 to 15 minutes.
Jan says
I started the Bible Recap this year too. Thank you for recommending it…. I have shared with so many friends and family. I’m learning so much. It is the most peaceful and beautiful way to start the day! Hugs and prayers!??
Kathy says
I’m doing it too and would like to add that the days are numbered Day 1 to Day 365. So, any time is the perfect time to start. I listen to the audio Bible while driving or walking on the You Version app(you can find the plan under My Plans and then it checks off each day as you complete it.) And then listen to the podcast. So glad you are sharing this today, Shay.
Mix and Match Mama says
Yes, yes, yes!! Thank you, Kathy!
Debbra Weber says
Kathy, thank you for posting this! You answered my question by saying any time is the perfect time to start instead of waiting until January 1st. I am going to gift this to myself for my birthday!! Love all the tips for the audio version too. Thank you, ladies!!
Paula says
This is my second trip through the Bible Recap. I agree that chronological order is such a game changer. I feel like those missing pieces of the puzzle fit together so much easier now. AND seeing the Father’s plan all throughout so clearly. It’s just wonderful! I love that you’re sharing this because your platform is huge. It can change one life for eternity.
Gloria says
Love this post! I’m doing it to but having a hard time finding time for other Bible studies. Are you doing others at the same time?
Mix and Match Mama says
I’m not. I’m spending all of my time just focusing on this in 2022.
Kayla Bruce says
Love this! Our whole church here in Madison is doing the Bible Recap together, and it’s been very cool to do it as a group. The way I do it is actually listen to the Bible reading through the YouVersion app, and then I listen to her podcast! Totally an auditory experience, but I’ve learned so much and can do it as I shower, get dressed, etc.
Debbie C says
I started the Bible Recap this year, also! I’m learning so much!
Hillary says
Thanks for sharing! How long does this take you each morning from start to finish?
Mix and Match Mama says
Including my prayer time, about 30 minutes. You can do the readings and recap part though in 15 minutes or less!
Terri says
I had the same question Hillary so thanks for asking and thank you Shay for your answer!
Debra says
The Bible Recap is such a great way to read the entire Bible and I love all the different aspects available. It makes reading through the Bible so easy. My favorite part in the app is in the devotional section at the beginning of each book. There is an animated video from the talented artists at The Bible Project. They give the reader an interesting and thorough preview of the the book you’re about to read. It ties everything together so well. The animation isn’t like a cartoon, it’s an animated drawing and is absolutely amazing!
Jamie F. says
LOVE The Bible Project videos!!
Stephanie Harris says
Just introduced to a Bible called The Message.
Sometimes in my Bible studies I don’t quite understand a passage. This Bible is a plain speaking every day jargon book. It’s written by a pastor and a teacher. It’s a great supplement and also would be very good for young people. Sample John 3:16
This is how much God loved the world he gave his son his one and only son and that is why; so that no one needs to be destroyed; by believing in him anyone can have a whole and lasting life, God didn’t go to all the trouble of sending his son merely to point and accusing finger telling the world how bad it was.
Have a most blessed Holy Week.
Mix and Match Mama says
Yes!!! The Message is a great way to read through the Bible too. It makes things much easier to understand. Yes, yes!
Melissa says
I love The Bible Recap!! I have read through the Bible before, but I don’t think I have ever enjoyed it like I am while doing this method. Her podcasts are wonderful. I also recommend adding on The Bible Kneecap podcast, where she does a short prayer that goes along with the day’s reading. I really want to be friends with Tara-Leigh and have coffee with her. 🙂
Jamie F. says
Me too!! 🙂
Christi Olson says
Love love love The Bible Recap! I’ve found that playing the audio scripture as I read along in my Bible really helps. The narrator glides through the hard to pronounce words where I would be stumbling to get through and lose my focus 😉
Cris says
Another tool I’m using this week is That Sounds Fun podcast’s Holy Week 2020 episodes. Annie reads through the week leading up to Easter on the days of the week that the events actually happened.
Stacey Grandstaff says
I also love the video overviews (found on the Bible App plan) on the days you start a new chapter of the Bible…just another great way to tie everything together!
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
I am adding this to my list of future studies I want to do–I already started the year just reading through the Bible on my own, but I will do this in the next 2-3 years. I love your detailed review! So helpful!
MeetTheShaneyfelts
Danna F says
Oh Shay, because of your suggestion on the Bible Recap, I am reading the bible for the first time in it’s entirety and loving it!!!! I have tried several times to only get through Genesis and not move on. I too use the Bible, Bible Recap Book and her podcast. She has links to Youtube videos that are fantastic in visually recapping each book of the bible. Since I am a ‘visual learner’, I have loved the videos. They are called, The Bible Project. Check them out. Any and every chance I get I tell friends, family and strangers about the Bible Recap. Thank you again for sharing!
Mix and Match Mama says
Yay!!!! This makes me so happy, Danna!!
Bethany says
I love the Bible Recap! I started it as a birthday present to myself back in June of 2020- to read through the Bible. Now I am on my second round! I was very diligent the first year, but this year I have paused to do a separate study for Advent and now Lent so it will take me longer than a year, but I am fine with that! Thanks for encouraging others to read their Bibles!?
Lois says
I started with the book also and switched to listening to her Podcast and love it so much! Thank you for recommending this at the beginning of the year! I’ve tried so many times to read my Bible in a year and have never stuck with it. Now I look forward to my time every day.
Emily says
Is this something you can start any day or should I wait until a new month/year?
Mix and Match Mama says
You can start this any day!! The days are numbered (Day 1 through 365) and not dated (January-December).
jennibell says
I started the Bible Recap this year too based on so many people telling me about it! If you go through the YouVersion Bible App it will sometimes include a podcast or video that also goes along with the material. For instance, when Genesis began there was a GREAT “recap” of the first part of the book and later another video was linked for the second part of the book.
This was a great post — if I hadn’t already started it this post alone would have convinced me to do it TODAY!! I have taken so many notes and put so many things together that I didn’t know I didn’t know (if that makes sense)!
kristen cheney says
I started in October and did the New Testament, then started in January with this years plan. I LOVE it! I do not have the journal but would maybe add that in next year. I do have the book and follow along with her podcast and take notes. I love adding in new things I am learning and plan to use colored pencil my second time through so I can see what new insights I gain the next time through.
Michelle Reynolds says
I was “influenced” by you to do this too! I started at the end of February and I am absolutely loving it! Thank you so much!
Carol B says
We are reading the Bible Recap every morning with you and just love it! Thank you so much for recommending it Shay!!?
June Pope says
Good evening Shay! Can you recommend a gratitude journal that would also have a daily devotion or Bible verse to go along? I can’t seem to find anything. Thank you for being such a good Christian model for people like me. ❤️
Mix and Match Mama says
Jesus Calling by Sarah Young is my very favorite!!!!! Sending you love, June!
Tricia says
Did you buy a specific Bible for The Bible Recap study? Or can I just use my Bible that I already have and just read the suggested chapters for the day? If I’m reading right, I understand that you bought The Bible Recap book and the journal, but I am not quite following the Bible aspect. Or does The Bible Recap book have the passages for each day and her add a commentary? Thank you so much for clarifying. ?
Mix and Match Mama says
You can use whatever Bible you have!! The Recap has the passages you read each day (chronologically) and her commentary but not the actual scripture. You’ll need an actual Bible (or the Bible app on YouVersion) for that!
Mary says
I LOVE this post, thank you Shay!
Right now I’m really enjoying Nicky Gumbel’s Bible in a Year app and was just wondering what I should do once I finish…..now I’m so excited to start The Bible Recap next year! Thanks for taking the time to break down the way you use it each morning as well! Xo
Tiff says
Thank you for sharing! Do you recommend starting at the beginning of the year, or just whenever? I’m thinking of saving it for 2023….
Mix and Match Mama says
You can start whenever you want to! The days (1-365) do not correspond to the dates (Jan 1-Dec 31).
Jennifer says
I started it in October last year! You can definitely start anytime. I just started with Day 1. It’s worked out great because when I miss a day I don’t feel behind ?
Julie says
I can’t figure out how to start at the beginning, any tips?
Mix and Match Mama says
Of the podcast or the book?
Jamie F. says
I purchased The Bible Recap after reading your post earlier this year. I absolutely love it and it has taken my devotion time to a new level. I have the guide, journal and study guide. I am going through it more slowly because I spend so much time taking notes in the journal and study guide. I listen to her audio review, as well. Thank you so much for the post and recommendation! It has changed my life, for sure!
Denise Brown says
If we are going to listen to her podcast, would you still recommend buying the book?
Mix and Match Mama says
I enjoy having it as a reference, but I don’t think you *need* it at all.
Cathy Sloan says
I’m so glad you love the Bible Recap too!! I started it in Jan of 2021 and I’m doing it again this year and have learned soooo much! I listen to the podcast daily after reading the scripture and I want to continue this for years to come because we all know-He’s where the Joy is❤️
Becky says
I did The Bible Recap in 2021. I started it January 1 while my husband was critically ill with Covid. He ended up passing away a few weeks later. It was amazing how God spoke to me through the Bible Recap-going through the book of Job during that time which is obviously a very heavy book was actually very comforting.
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh Becky, I am so sorry for your loss. I am just so sorry. Sending you so much love right now! xx
Elisabeth says
I used the One Year Bible thanks to your recommendation, so this looks amazing.
This year I’m actually taking a break from daily reading. I realized it was becoming this “box” I felt I needed to check off. I’m focussing on getting in to the word as I feel led + reading the kids devotional with them each day. The latter has been amazing – I honestly feel like I’m learning SO much from the lessons that are geared toward a younger audience. It cuts through all the excess and gets to the heart of the Gospel and I’ve been so encouraged to let myself just learn these lessons in tandem with my kids.
That said, next year I would like to start another program and this might be just the prompt I need!
Ginny says
I have also been doing The Bible Recap as a plan on the Bible app. I need to be better about listening to the podcast. Each new book also starts with a short video overview of the book.
Cameron Cummings says
I am on the website and I do not see the blue book like you show above.
Mix and Match Mama says
That’s odd? I ordered it right off of her site. I think it’s the most popular thing she has since that’s the “recap”.