How to Motivate Myself to Daily Bible Reading and Prayer

Audio By Carbonatix

Hey friend—it’s Tricia here. 

If I’m honest, there are mornings when I’d rather scroll than study, when my Bible sits unopened while my to-do list screams. But the longer I’ve walked with Jesus, the more I’ve realized: motivation doesn’t show up first—obedience does.

The spark of joy comes after the first small “yes.”

Join me for this honest conversation about how we can stay motivated (and grace-filled!) in our daily time with God.

Remember: You’re Meeting a Person, Not Checking a Box

For years, I treated Bible reading like a spiritual chore chart. But God never asked me to earn His love—He invited me to enjoy it.

When I started picturing my quiet time as meeting with a dear friend instead of completing a task, everything shifted. Some days, I whisper prayers between interruptions. Other days, I linger long with a cup of tea. Either way, He’s there.

Don’t chase perfection—pursue presence.

I used to wait until I “felt spiritual” to open my Bible, but I realized that the feeling comes after the faithfulness. The moment we show up, God meets us in the ordinary. It’s like He’s saying, “I’ve been waiting for you.”

Make It Simple (and Start Small)

If you’re feeling stuck, begin with something doable. I read one chapter a day—no more, no less. Then I ask three questions:
 

What do I learn about God?
What step of obedience do I need to take?
How will I obey today?

That’s it. No fancy plan, no pressure. Just connection.

I’ve found that pairing my Bible reading with something I already do—like coffee or my morning walk—makes it a habit, not a hassle. Habit stacking turns desire into discipline.

On days when you can’t focus? Listen to the Daily Bible Podcast in the car. Start with small, stay with steady.

Create Prayer Triggers

Prayer doesn’t have to happen in long, perfect paragraphs. I’ve learned to connect prayer to everyday moments.

• When I start my car → I pray for safety and patience.
  
• When I wash dishes → I thank God for provision.
  
• When I see my kids → I bless them under my breath.
  

Those tiny, consistent moments keep my heart tethered to His.

I even set an alarm on my phone that just says “Pause + Pray.” It’s a gentle nudge reminding me that prayer is a conversation that never ends.

If it crosses your mind, let it cross your lips to God.

When You Don’t Feel Like It—Do It Anyway

There are days when obedience feels dry. When I open my Bible and… nothing. But here’s what I’ve learned: the Word always works, even when we don’t feel it.

Like planting seeds in quiet soil, those moments are shaping our hearts below the surface.

God isn’t testing our performance. He’s training our faithfulness. Every time we show up, we’re declaring, “Lord, You’re worth my time—even when I feel nothing.” That’s worship.

Feelings follow faithfulness.

Build a “Sacred Space” You Actually Love

Sometimes motivation grows when we make the experience beautiful. Light a candle. Pour your coffee. Keep your Bible and journal open on the table.

It doesn’t have to look like Instagram. It just has to feel like invitation.

I keep a “quiet-time basket” with my Bible, pens, sticky notes, and journal. Seeing it ready every morning reminds me that this space is sacred—and I belong here.

When you set the table, God will bring the feast.

Pair Accountability with Grace

When I read Scripture alongside others—through a group, podcast, or reading plan—I stay more consistent. Accountability builds rhythm.

My husband and I share something that stands out from our morning readings. No pressure, no judgment—just encouragement.

Community keeps the flame lit.

Remember Who You’re Becoming

God isn’t looking for perfect students—He’s forming faithful children. Every time you open your Bible or whisper a prayer, you’re shaping your heart to look a little more like His.

When we seek Him daily, even in weakness, we’re living proof that grace works.

The goal isn’t routine—it’s relationship.

A Simple Daily Practice (You Can Start Today)

Total: 15 minutes. Eternally worth it.

Final Word 

Friend, you don’t need more willpower. Instead, you need to remember why you’re showing up. God isn’t waiting for your perfect schedule. He’s waiting for your surrendered heart. Start small. Show up. He’ll meet you there.

When you stop chasing motivation and start practicing presence, transformation follows.

Go Deeper: Walk It Out by Tricia Goyer

If this post encouraged you, grab Walk It Out — it’s my heartfelt guide to living what you believe, one step at a time.

In it, I shares real stories, practical habits, and biblical truths that help you turn Scripture into a lifestyle of purpose, peace, and joy.

Because the goal isn’t just to read God’s Word—it’s to walk it out. Also, join the Daily Bible Podcast for encouragement every morning.