One Chapter a Day: How a Simple Habit Transformed My Life by Reid

One Chapter a Day: How a Simple Habit Transformed My Life by Reid - February 2026 Scholarship Essay

One small habit that made a profound difference in my personal and academic success is reading the Bible nightly. On January 1st, 2024, I committed to reading one chapter of the Bible a day until I completed the entire Bible. At the time, I did not realize how such a simple routine would become so transformative in my life. What began as a modest New Year's resolution has grown into a life changing source of clarity and strength. This small habit has completely reshaped my life.

Before I began this commitment, I struggled with depression. Many days felt directionless and hopeless. I wrestled with negative thoughts, discouragement and a lack of motivation. This mindset affected not just my mental health, but also my academics. I fell behind in school and it was difficult to stay focused and disciplined. I felt hopeless for the future and overwhelmed. I needed a firm foundation-something stronger than temporary motivation or shallow encouragement.

Reading the Bible each night became this foundation that I desperately needed. I set aside time before bed every night and it gave me time to slow down and reflect. Instead of ending my day on my phone or replaying anxieties in my head, I ended it with Scripture. Over time, this habit began to change the way I thought. the Bible consistently reminded me of God's faithfulness, love and sovereignty. Passages about hope, identity and perseverance challenged the lies that I believed about myself. I began to replace self-doubt with truth.

Academically, this new mindset made an incredible difference. the Bible teaches discipline, wisdom and diligence. Reading the Bible strengthened my self-control and consistency. These newfound qualities directly impacted my study habits. Reading one chapter a night consistently requires faithfulness and discipline. That same discipline helped me to complete assignments and study for exams. I became focused because my mind was less consumed with anxiety and instead was anchored in truth.

Personally, the change was even deeper. Scripture gave my hope. Verses about God working all things for good and being near to the brokenhearted gave me comfort in seasons of difficulty. Even through the difficult and challenging parts of the Bible strengthened my faith. Believing that all Scripture is inspired by God has helped me trust that even when I do not fully understand something, there is purpose and truth in the passage. Wrestling with difficult verses has developed in me patience, humility, and a deeper desire to seek understanding.

This small habit has also reshaped my identity. Instead of defining myself by emotions or circumstances, I now define myself the way the Bible defines me, as a child of God and unconditionally loved. This shift has brought peace and confidence. Reading a chapter a day might seem simple, but this daily commitment has grown me over time. It has trained my mind, strengthened my spirit, and gave me direction in confusing times.

Looking back, I can see just how much I have been transformed from this commitment. It was a gradual transformation, formed through ordinary, quiet evenings with an open Bible. Yet those small, faithful moments have produced lasting change. What began as a simple routine has become the foundation of my growth, success, and hope.