The Vanilla Factor: The Key to a Thriving Spiritual Life

Last Sunday, we learned that economists have a term for vanilla’s dominance in the ice cream world: The Vanilla Factor. Every year, without fail, vanilla is the top-selling flavor, accounting for 30% of all ice cream sales.

So, what is the "Vanilla Factor" of the Christian life? What single habit will most impact your love for God, compassion for the lost, and fight against sin?

Plain, simple, daily Bible reading.

Reading Scripture every day—for the rest of your life—positions you for spiritual growth, intimacy with God, and life-changing breakthroughs. So, how do we create this habit?

How to Build a Lifelong Bible Reading Habit
We hear that it takes 21 days to form a habit, but how do you make Bible reading a natural part of your daily life? Scripture is an ancient book with different customs and language—where do you even start?

Here’s how to make it sustainable and life-giving:

1. Commit to the Process
First, decide. Make Bible reading a non-negotiable priority—not as a task to check off, but as a way to meet with God. Scripture reveals who God is, who you are, and what your life is about.

You’ll have distractions and discouragements, but this is the Vanilla Factor of your faith. If you miss a day or week, don’t quit—just start again.

2. Choose the Right Translation
A good translation makes all the difference but there’s so many to choose from:

• Word-for-Word (Best for Study): ESV, NASB, NKJV
• Thought-for-Thought (Balanced): NIV, CSB
• Paraphrase (Easy Reading): NLT

I love the ESV for its balance of accuracy and readability, but the NLT is great for smooth reading. The key is finding one you’ll actually read every day. Of course, there are translations you absolutely should avoid. I’ll leave that as a rabbit hole for you to dive down. However, the translations above I can stand behind with confidence.

3. Use a Study Bible
Study Bibles clarify Scripture with background info, key themes, timelines, and verse explanations. Some great options:

• ESV Study Bible (most comprehensive)
• Life Application Study Bible (practical insights)
• MacArthur Study Bible (theological depth)
• NIV Study Bible (clear and balanced)

When you don’t understand a verse, check the notes!

4. Pick a Reading Plan That Works for You
Bible reading isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some like reading big sections (broad overview), while others prefer deep study (digging into every word). There are endless options only a Google search away. Personally, I like to mix it up:

• A Psalm (worship)
• A Proverb (wisdom)
• A New Testament passage (Jesus & the early church)
• An Old Testament passage (history & prophecy)

Find a reading plan that fits your rhythm and stick with it.

5. Embrace Accountability (Life Group Matters!)
Here’s an uncomfortable but necessary word: accountability.

It’s the #1 factor in helping athletes reach their goals—and it’s just as vital for Christians. If you want to grow, resist sin, and hear from God, you need others. I share what I’m learning with my wife, friends, and Life Group because I need encouragement and challenge. Don’t fear accountability—it’s a gift.

Final Thoughts: A Habit That Transforms Your Life

Bible reading isn’t about earning God’s love—you already have it. It’s about knowing Him more, hearing His voice, and walking in truth.

This is the Vanilla Factor of your faith.

The habit that changes everything.

Start today. Keep going. Let God meet you there.