If you want to grow in your intimacy with and obedience to God, consistent reading and meditating on God’s Word is essential. While many good translations of God’s Word are available, the one I am most comfortable recommending to others is the English Standard Version (ESV). The ESV is the “essentially literal” translation that I read, study, meditate over, memorize and preach from. If you use the ESV or if you are looking for an easy to read translation I have good news for you. In addition to the many printed ESV options available, the publishers have two free ways for us to access God’s Word digitally. The first is for computers and can be set up at esvbible.org. The second is for iPhones and iPads and can be set up from the Apple App Store. This app was recently released and is the easiest Bible app I’ve ever used.
As we all seek to be disciples who make disciples who make disciples, let’s keep abiding in his Word (with whatever translation you like to use) for it was our Lord who said, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples.” (John 8:31)
In Christ’s love,
Dean
P.S. In addition to the benefits I’ve mentioned above, here is a list of the app’s features provided from the free ESV app developers:
The all new ESV Bible app was designed to be the most beautiful and intuitive Bible app available. The app includes free resources such as personalized reading plans, audio streaming, and full access to the ESV Global Study Bible.
- Read. Features an elegant new interface designed specifically for mobile devices. Quick access to cross-references, split-screen reading, and a brand new reader’s mode help you engage with God’s Word on a deeper level.
- Study. Build your personal library by unlocking helpful resources like the award-winning ESV Study Bible via the in-app store.
- Apple Watch. Interact with God’s Word on your wrist with integrated reading plan support, custom reminders, audio, and more.
- Audio. Listen to a free audio reading of the biblical text (internet connection required).
- Reading Plans. Follow one of a variety of free reading plans to help you read the Word consistently.
- Search. Search by reference, keyword, or phrase with lightning speed.
- Write. Capture your ideas and reflections while listening to a sermon or during Bible study in personal notes attached to specific passages.
- Highlight. Highlight and bookmark favorite verses with just two taps.
- Sync. Sync your highlighted verses, bookmarks, notes, and purchased content with ESVBible.org—giving you access to all of your content from any browser.
- Share. Share verses with friends and family via text message, email, Facebook, and Twitter.