Starting with simple arrangements was an easy way to learn Christmas songs on the piano. What if understanding the Bible were just a matter of repetition?
Piano books
When I was growing up, I wanted to learn how to play the piano. Well, actually, I don’t know that I wanted to learn as much as I wanted to already know how to play. Whenever I walked past the church piano I’d plunk a few notes, not knowing the names of the keys, just wishing I could play.
I eventually took piano lessons as an adult and really enjoyed learning Christmas songs. The melodies were familiar and piano books full of Christmas music abound at every level. From simple melodies played one note at a time to chord accompaniments and artful arrangements, you can find music that matches whatever skill you have.
Increasing skill – start with the easy versions
This was such a wonderful discovery for me. I could start with the easy versions, then gradually move to more challenging arrangements. This process didn’t feel like work because I could find something easy to play and enjoy playing as I slowly increased my skill for the next layer of difficulty or challenge.
Playing Christmas carols
One year as I sat at the piano playing the Christmas carols I had learned the year before, I realized they were easy! What I had initially struggled with and worked hard to learn was now within my ability.
When had that happened?
A strategy
I engaged this as a strategy for playing. I would start the holiday season with the songs I had learned the previous year, which gave me a great boost of confidence. Then I started learning a slightly more difficult arrangement or song that required a little more technical skill.
The gradual increase in challenge kept the process from feeling tedious and I still enjoyed playing the Christmas music, which was kind of the whole point, right?
Learn gradually
So now, every year, I start with the songs and arrangements I already know, then move on to the next degree of mastery. I learn gradually and the process doesn’t feel tedious.
I am rewarded with finding deeper layers of richness in the music.
Each year I see how far I’ve come, what all I have accomplished in the interim, and discover what new skills I’ve acquired.
Bible books
Reading the Bible can be like that too.
Start with a children’s version of a story, picture books are best, then seek out the scripture passage in the Bible. Don’t worry if you don’t understand the Bible version on the first read. Or if it feels boring to read.
If you keep coming back to it you’ll probably discover something new you didn’t notice before.
You’ll also acquire observation and study skills over time drawing out more of the treasure of what you are reading.
Keep coming back to the Bible. I think you’ll be glad you did.