Christians of all kinds recognize the central place the Bible has in their life of faith. To thrive, a believer must incorporate its message into their daily life. But these days, people are so busy it gets harder and harder to have a special time for reading the Bible. Let's examine an alternative to reading that should work for a lot of folks.

We can't go very long in a day without being inundated with messages. From the moment our clock radio begins playing a song, pitching some product or reciting the gloomy news, the words come pouring in to our minds. If we pick up a newspaper or sample a morning talk show the grim outlook of much of the world continues to bombard us.

After we leave the partial seclusion of home, we can't help but taking in the messages from a multitude of signs and billboards. Some of them must get through to our minds and hearts. Then we come into contact with people. We hear the gossip the stories of all kinds of corrupt behavior and all the sinful desires.

With all this stuff filling our minds we really need to overcome evil with good. Since the negatives can't be turned off we must overpower them with scriptural positives.

Bringing the message of God's Word, the Bible, into our minds will help us focus on the good and positive things again. But when?

Most advisors will say it is best to begin the day with time in God's Word. Bible reading and prayer will get the day going well but this does not always work. Consider trying this as another option.

Consider listening to the Bible being read to you from an audiobook. This plan works not only as a substitute for reading but also as a supplement. You can purchase an audio Bible for less than the cost of many printed versions. Getting a digital download copy via the internet will save you even more.

Sync a portion of the Bible onto your mp3 player or pda. You could also make a cd to play in your car's stereo system. Block out those messages of evil and despair by filling your mind with Bible texts. This should help keep you on the right path.

Consider the message of these Bible verses:

John 8:47 - He that is of God heareth God's words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God.

Psalm 51:8 - Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.

Psalm 119:11 - Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.

It is indeed important to hear God's message. The Bible makes this very clear. Make use of today's technology to strengthen your walk with God. Even ten or fifteen minutes a day would be useful. You probably listen to many songs in a day. Just reducing this a few will give you all the time you need.

We, unlike any generation before us, are uniquely blessed with the tools to greatly amplify our devotional Bible study experience. You know the technology will be used to inundate you with the world's messages, so fight back by listening to the Word of God.

Bibles in audio format are available in a number of translations and styles of presentation. You may prefer a simple narration or get a real feeling of the drama with a version with sound effects and a full cast of readers. Another audiobook product available is a series of topical Bible readings ideally suited for devotional listening.