Reading the Bible can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it can also feel a little overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. Whether you’re reading it for spiritual growth, personal study, or just out of curiosity, figuring out the best way to read the Bible can help you engage more deeply with its message.
In this article, we’ll walk through some practical tips to make your Bible reading journey more meaningful and enjoyable. We’ll cover how to approach the Bible, ways to stay motivated, and suggestions for how to understand and apply its teachings in your daily life.
Ready? Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Understand the Bible’s Structure
Before jumping right into reading, it’s essential to understand the Bible’s basic structure. The Bible isn’t just one book; it’s a collection of 66 books, split into two parts—the Old Testament and the New Testament. The Old Testament focuses on the history, poetry, laws, and prophecies related to the Jewish people, while the New Testament covers the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and the early Christian church.
These 66 books are also divided into different genres. Some books are historical (like Genesis and Acts), some are poetic (like Psalms), others are letters (like Philippians), and some are full of prophecies (like Revelation). Knowing this helps because you wouldn’t read a poem the same way you’d read a history book, right? Different sections of the Bible are meant to be approached differently, so it’s helpful to know what type of book you’re diving into.
Step 2: Start With a Purpose
Before you crack open your Bible, ask yourself, “Why am I reading this?” Setting a purpose helps guide your study. Some common reasons people read the Bible include:
- Spiritual Growth: If your goal is to deepen your relationship with God, you might focus on passages that speak to your heart or areas where you feel you need guidance, like prayer, love, or patience.
- Knowledge: Maybe you’re simply curious and want to know more about the stories, teachings, and historical context of the Bible.
- Comfort: If you’re going through a tough time, certain Psalms or verses in the New Testament can provide comfort and hope.
Knowing why you’re reading helps you stay focused and find meaning in the text.
Step 3: Choose a Translation You Understand
The Bible has been translated into many versions, so it’s essential to find one that resonates with you. Some translations are more literal and may feel a bit clunky to modern readers (like the King James Version), while others prioritize clarity and readability (like the New International Version or The Message).
Here are some common translations to consider:
- New International Version (NIV): A popular and balanced translation that’s easy to understand.
- English Standard Version (ESV): Great for a more literal translation while still being accessible.
- The Message (MSG): A paraphrase that makes the Bible feel like a conversation. Ideal for someone who wants a fresh take.
- New Living Translation (NLT): Easy to read and great for new readers.
It’s perfectly okay to try a few different translations before you settle on one that feels right for you. The goal is to find a version that you can understand and connect with.
Step 4: Don’t Start From the Beginning (Seriously!)
Most books you read, you start from page one and go straight through, but the Bible isn’t quite like that. You can start from the beginning, but for many people, jumping into Genesis (the first book of the Bible) and trying to read straight through to Revelation can be a bit overwhelming. Some parts, especially in the Old Testament, might feel difficult to get through.
Instead, consider starting in the New Testament. The Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) are all about the life and teachings of Jesus, which is central to Christian faith. Mark is often recommended for beginners because it’s straightforward and action-packed.
Once you’re comfortable with the Gospels, you can move on to the Psalms for encouragement and prayer, or dive into Paul’s letters (like Romans or Ephesians) for deeper theological insights.
Step 5: Find a Reading Plan
If you’re not sure where to start or how much to read each day, a reading plan can help! Reading plans provide structure, helping you stay consistent without feeling lost. You can find reading plans for every need:
- Topical Reading Plans: These plans focus on specific themes, like faith, love, forgiveness, or joy.
- Chronological Plans: These plans arrange the books in the order the events happened rather than how they appear in the Bible.
- One-Year Plans: If you want to read through the entire Bible in a year, these plans break it down into daily portions, making it manageable.
- New Testament in 30 Days: For a quick, focused read of the New Testament.
Many Bible apps, like the YouVersion Bible app, offer free reading plans that guide you through sections of the Bible based on your interests or goals.
Step 6: Create a Comfortable Environment
Now that you’ve got your Bible and maybe a reading plan, where and how you read can make a big difference. Create a comfortable space where you can focus. Whether it’s a quiet corner of your home or a favorite chair at a local café, find a spot where you won’t be easily distracted.
It might also help to set aside a specific time each day to read. Some people find early morning works best, while others like to read before bed. The key is consistency—setting a regular routine helps you stay on track.
Step 7: Use a Journal or Notebook
Keeping a journal or notebook can make your Bible reading more interactive. Jot down any verses that stand out to you or questions that come up as you read. You can also write about how certain passages relate to your life or what they’re teaching you.
This practice helps you remember what you’ve read and provides a space for reflecting on how to apply those lessons to your life. Plus, it’s always fun to look back at your notes and see how your understanding has deepened over time.
Step 8: Don’t Rush—Take Your Time
It’s tempting to treat Bible reading like a checklist, especially if you’re following a reading plan. But don’t rush through just to say you’ve “read the Bible.” The goal is to understand and apply what you read, not just to get through it as fast as possible.
Take your time with each passage. If something jumps out at you, stop and reflect on it. Sometimes a single verse can speak volumes and inspire days of thought. It’s not about quantity—it’s about quality. Let each word sink in.
Step 9: Get Some Help When You Need It
The Bible can be tough to understand at times, and that’s okay! Don’t be afraid to ask for help. There are tons of resources available, from study Bibles to commentaries, podcasts, and online communities.
A study Bible is one of the best tools you can have. It contains explanations and insights at the bottom of each page to help clarify the more challenging passages. Popular study Bibles include the ESV Study Bible and the NIV Life Application Bible.
Step 10: Pray Before and After You Read
No matter where you are on your spiritual journey, prayer can be a powerful tool before and after reading the Bible. It doesn’t have to be complicated—just ask God to help you understand the passage and apply it to your life.
Here’s a simple prayer you can use:
“God, please give me the wisdom to understand what I’m about to read. Open my heart and mind to Your message and help me apply it in my life today.”
Taking a moment to pray before and after your reading invites God to guide your study and helps center your focus.
Step 11: Apply What You Read
One of the most important parts of reading the Bible is applying what you’ve learned. After all, the Bible isn’t just a historical document—it’s a guide for how to live life. As you read, think about how the lessons and principles can apply to your situation, your relationships, and your personal growth.
For example, if you read about forgiveness in Matthew 18, consider if there’s someone in your life you need to forgive. If you’re studying Proverbs and come across advice about how to speak kindly, think about how you can incorporate that into your daily interactions.
Application is where the Bible comes to life and starts impacting your day-to-day choices.
Step 12: Don’t Get Discouraged
Bible reading can be challenging, especially when you hit those tough-to-understand sections. But don’t give up! Everyone struggles with certain parts of the Bible—whether it’s the long genealogies in the Old Testament or the complex visions in Revelation. Keep going, and remember that it’s okay to take it slow and even skip around.
If you ever feel stuck, go back to a section you enjoy or understand better. There’s no rule that says you have to read the Bible in a specific order, so feel free to adjust your approach to whatever works best for you.
Conclusion: A Lifelong Journey
Reading the Bible is a journey, not a race. It’s a lifelong process of learning, reflecting, and growing. Don’t be afraid to start small, take your time, and let it speak to you personally. The best way to read the Bible is the way that helps you grow spiritually and connect with its teachings on a deeper level. Enjoy the process—it’s an adventure filled with wisdom, comfort, and guidance that can last a lifetime.