In today’s digital age, access to the Bible has never been
easier. Thanks to iOS and Android devices, anyone can read Scripture anytime
and anywhere. The convenience of mobile technology has removed the excuse of
not being able to engage with God’s Word regularly. However, this very
accessibility raises an interesting question: Is there a right or wrong place
to read the Bible?
One ordinary morning, as I was heading to the restroom, a
particular Bible passage came to mind. I felt an immediate urge to read it,
though I could have postponed it for later. Yet, knowing myself, I was almost
certain that I would forget it once my mind became occupied with other things.
The urgency was real—both to read the passage and to address a more pressing
biological need. So, without much hesitation, I grabbed my Android device from
my room and made my way back to the restroom.
Now, bringing my phone or iPad mini into the restroom was
nothing new. I had done it before, though mostly for browsing, messaging, or
watching videos. However, this was different. I was about to read the Bible in
a place that didn’t seem quite appropriate for it. Just as I reached the
doorway, I stopped, hesitating for a moment.
“Is this okay?” I wondered. It wasn’t a matter of sinning
but rather a question of reverence. Would reading Scripture in such a setting
be considered disrespectful?
I was reminded of a story a friend once shared with me. She told me about a man who had been given a Bible by a lady friend. Fearing
judgment from his family, he secretly read the Bible in the only place he could
be alone—the restroom. Years later, that same man became a Bible teacher and
eventually rose to the position of president at a well-respected Christian
university.
Of course, my situation was different. I had the freedom to
read the Bible anywhere in my house without fear of ridicule. So why would I
choose to read it in an unusual place and in an awkward situation? But then
again, why not? I had prayed in that very same space many times before. What
made reading the Bible any different?
At that moment, I needed a quick decision. The discomfort
was growing, and the only immediate solution was just two steps away. The
simplest guideline came to mind: “When in doubt, say ‘no.’”
So, I decided not to bring my phone into the restroom.
Instead, I waited until I was finished, and to my relief, I still remembered
the passage I had wanted to read. Yet, the question lingered in my mind:
Is it ethical or acceptable to read the Bible in the
restroom?
Some might argue that since the Word of God is holy, it
should be read in a place of reverence, free from distractions. Others might
say that what truly matters is the heart of the reader, not the location. After
all, if we can pray anywhere, why should reading Scripture be any different?
Ultimately, I believe the answer lies in personal
conviction. If it feels disrespectful to read the Bible in a certain place,
then perhaps that feeling is worth honoring. But if someone genuinely seeks
God’s wisdom and guidance—even in an unconventional setting—who are we to say
that God won’t meet them there?
What do you think? Is there a right or wrong place to read the Bible?
