How to Start Reading the Bible: Practical Tips for Beginners
- The Path
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
For many believers, reading the Bible feels both exciting and overwhelming. We know Scripture is God’s Word — alive, powerful, and life-giving — but sometimes we’re unsure where to begin, how to understand it, or how to make it a consistent part of our day.
The good news? God never intended Bible reading to feel complicated or intimidating. His Word is meant to draw you closer to Him, strengthen your faith, and anchor your life in truth. Whether you’re new to reading the Bible or trying to rebuild the habit, here is encouragement and guidance to help you begin.
1. Start by Asking God to Speak to You
“Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in Your law.” Psalm 119:18 (NIV)
Bible reading is not just information — it’s communion.Before you read, pause and pray a simple prayer:“Lord, speak to me through Your Word today.”
When you invite the Holy Spirit in, the Scriptures become clearer, more personal, and more powerful.
2. Choose a Translation You Understand
The Bible was written in ancient languages, but today we have many faithful translations that make Scripture easier to read. If you’re struggling with understanding, try:
NIV (New International Version)
NLT (New Living Translation)
NASB (New American Standard Bible)
A clear translation helps Scripture feel accessible, not confusing.
3. Start with a Book That Helps You Meet Jesus
“Fixing our eyes on Jesus…” Hebrews 12:2 (NIV)
If you’re starting fresh, begin with a book that centers on the life and heart of Jesus:
John (who Jesus is)
Mark (fast-paced, action-driven)
Luke (detailed, compassionate)
Why start here?Because understanding Jesus brings the rest of Scripture into focus.
4. Read a Small Section — Not the Whole Bible at Once
“Your word is a lamp to my feet…” Psalm 119:105 (NIV)
A lamp lights one step at a time, not the whole path at once.Don’t pressure yourself to consume chapters at a time.
Try reading:
A few verses
A short story
One psalm
A paragraph from a Gospel
Let depth matter more than speed.
5. Ask Three Simple Questions
As you read, these questions help you reflect and apply Scripture:
What does this passage say about God?
What does this passage say about me?
How can I live this out today?
Bible reading becomes transformation when you slow down enough to let the Word speak to your life.
6. Keep a Journal of What God Shows You
Writing down what you learn helps you notice patterns, track growth, and remember God’s faithfulness.
Try recording:
A verse that stood out
A question you want to explore
A prayer that came to mind
Something you felt God encouraging or correcting
These small reflections become a powerful spiritual record over time.
7. Use a Reading Plan So You Don’t Feel Lost
You don’t need to guess what to read next.Start with a simple plan:
30 days with Jesus (Gospel readings)
Proverbs (one chapter a day)
Psalms (a few verses a day)
YouVersion 10–15 day reading plans
Consistency becomes much easier when you have direction.
8. Don’t Quit When It Feels Difficult
Some books are easier than others. Some seasons are easier than others. The goal is not perfection — it’s consistency.
If you miss a day (or a week), don’t feel guilty. Just start again.God isn’t keeping score. He is inviting you closer.
9. Read the Bible in Community
“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly…” Colossians 3:16 (NIV)
Bible reading becomes richer when you talk about it with others.Share what you’re learning with:
A friend
Your small group
Your family
A mentor
God often reveals things through community that we don’t see on our own.
A Prayer to Begin Your Bible Reading Journey
Lord, give me a hunger for Your Word.Help me understand what I read, hear Your voice clearly, and apply Your truth to my everyday life.Draw me closer to You through Scripture and let Your Word shape my heart, mind, and character.In Jesus’ name, amen.
