On this week’s episode of Trending Faith, Grand Canyon University Pastor and Dean of Students Tim Griffin and Dean of the College of Theology Jason Hiles, PhD, sat down to discuss Bible reading plans and whether or not they are helpful.

According to Dr. Hiles, it is a common misconception that discipline is bad. However, he believes while we may misuse it, discipline itself is not bad. It gives us a backbone and strength in what we would do normally.

It is important to be flexible when it comes to discipline. We must be able to stop and ask ourselves why we are doing what we’re doing and know what we are trying to accomplish.

Dr. Hiles said, “Discipline helps us to get into the Word of God and to stay there consistently.”

If our goals are clear, we can encounter God in a powerful way. After all, that should be our goal in reading His Word.

Dr. Hiles discussed 1 Samuel 3, where Samuel learns to hear God’s voice. When Samuel finally hears His voice, he is able to grow. He learns to not let any of the words of the Lord fall to the ground, which is a good goal for anyone who is trying to encounter God and get to know him.

In the end, Dr. Hiles believes it is important to figure out how to get into the Word of God and take it in. We may have different approaches in doing this, such as in using a reading plan, but it should always be our goal to be able to hear God’s voice and meditate on His Word.

Listen to the full discussion, including Pastor Tim’s thoughts, by watching the video.

Want to have a question answered by Dr. Hiles and Pastor Tim? Send your questions to trendingfaith@gcu.edu or use #trendingfaith. To learn more about a Christian education at GCU and the wide variety of degree programs offered, visit the GCU website.