How Do I Start Reading the Bible?

The Bible is a book I'm sure you hear a lot about. We can't help but to. We hear about it in our church, among friends, in our homes, and even through the media. And the Bible is real and worth talking about. In fact, it's sacred. It's the word of God.

But, for some, the Bible has become more of a trend. People often treat it that way, and that’s not how God intended His Word to be. It’s not a passing fad, a trend, or just another task on a checklist.

So, how can you move beyond engaging with the Bible in a way that’s just trendy, and instead truly seek its truth, meaning, and spiritual growth?

First, understand that spending time in God’s Word is spending time with God. We were created to seek Him daily. And one of the best ways to do that is through prayer and reading the Bible.

The Bible helps us know God's character, understand His ways, and grow in our relationship with Him. Through His Word, He gives us wisdom, direction, correction, encouragement, and hope for difficult days. God speaks to our hearts and comforts us, He strengthens our faith and confidence, and He reassures us of His unchanging promises.

This is why reading the Bible is such a beautiful spiritual practice. It's about knowing God and His will and growing a relationship with Him for yourself through His living Word.

But I'm Overwhelmed at the Thought of Starting

Even though we know its value, sitting down to read the Bible can sometimes feel a bit confusing or intimidating. Flipping through page after page of verses without knowing where to begin or what to focus on during your Bible time is a feeling many people share.

I love reading the Bible, but it wasn't always easy for me. There was a time when I wasn't always sure what to read, how much to read, or how to connect with what I was reading. Over time, I’ve realized that Bible reading can be simple but also deeply in tune with God.

If you have a Bible but you've been overwhelmed or even uninterested before you even start with it, or if you’re unsure which book to read first, how much to read each day, or what to do when something you read doesn’t make sense, take heart and try not to become frustrated.

Reading your Bible can be a source of strength, wisdom, and understanding for your life. You don't need a seminary degree, a shelf full of study books, or hours of free time. Like I always say, you just need a willing heart and a place to begin!

If you're wondering how to start reading the Bible, here are a few of my steps that can help.

1. Start with Jesus

A common mistake we can make when we start reading the Bible is trying to start at Genesis and read straight through the Bible from beginning to end.

While there's nothing wrong with reading the Bible that way, it can become overwhelming quickly.

Instead, I often recommend beginning with one of the Gospels, especially the book of John.

The Gospels introduce us to the life, teachings, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As a believer, everything begins with Him.

As you read, pay attention to what Jesus says, how He treats people, and what He teaches about God.

2. Keep It Simple

I've tried reading a set of chapters in one setting and I found that it was harder to engage with the text because I was reading towards a goal more than I was reading to engage. You don't need to read five chapters a day to have a wholesome personal Bible study.

In fact, starting small is often better.

Try reading one chapter or even a short set of Bible verses each day. Give yourself time that time needed to think about what you're reading rather than rushing to finish a certain number of pages.

I always say that consistency is more important than quantity.

Reading a few verses with intention each day helps you grow far more than skimming through large amounts just to mark it off a list.

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3. Pray Before You Read

Before you open your Bible, pray first. Your prayer doesn't have to be long or formal. You can thank God for giving you His Word and ask Him to help you understand it and apply it to your life.

The Bible is more than a book. It's God's Word, and the Holy Spirit helps us understand and live the truth every day.

4. Keep a Notebook Nearby

When you decide to start reading the Bible, your study time doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s tempting to want to try all the methods you see online, stock up on supplies, or print out multiple plans. But a simple notebook can be all you need to get started.

When I began, I'd use a notebook to help me write down things like:

- A verse that stood out to me

- Something I learned about God

- A question I would have about the verse

- A way I could apply the passage to my real life

These little notes helped me start small and simple while keeping my focus on building a solid reading habit in the Word, not on overwhelming methods and supplies.

Turning your Bible time into creative study is definitely a great idea! But when you’re just starting out, it’s best to focus on the basics so you can train your heart to truly connect with Jesus.

Little by little, you can start adding new methods and tools to your study routine to explore different ways of learning. Over time, as you grow, you’ll see just how much you’re learning and remembering.

5. Don't Focus on Understanding Everything at Once

If you approach reading your Bible expecting to understand everything right away, you miss the chance to pray for understanding, do some research for deeper insight, and avoid feeling discouraged when you run into something you don’t immediately grasp.

Remember, the Bible is a lifelong journey of learning and growth with God. There are still passages I revisit and learn from years later.

If you don't understand something, don't stop reading altogether. Make a note of it and continue. Understanding often comes with time, prayer, study, and experience.

Focus on what you do understand and allow God to continue teaching you as you grow.

6. Prioritize consistency over perfection.

Some days your Bible time may be peaceful and focused. Other days your mind may wander, your schedule may be busy, or life may feel like you have too much happening.

Don't let an imperfect day convince you to quit your Bible time with God. If you've missed a few days, don't wait until Monday, next month, or the beginning of a new year to start again.

Just open your Bible and begin where you are.

Spiritual growth doesn’t come from trying to imitate others or striving for some award of perfection. It grows from a faithful commitment to keeping God’s Word at the center of your heart.

A Beautiful Place to Begin

If you're unsure where to begin, let's kick things off with this simple plan I'd like you to try:

Week One

- John 1–7

Week Two

- John 8–14

Week Three

- John 15–21

Take your time with these chapters, reading one each day. Even if you’ve gone through them before, approach them again with a fresh perspective. Read slowly and with an open heart, take a moment to pray, and jot down a few notes each day.

Most importantly, remember that Bible reading is not about checking off another task on your to-do list. It's about spending time with God and allowing His Word to shape your heart and life.

You don't have to know everything before you begin. Sometimes the most important step is simply opening your Bible and reading the first verse.

Jessica Frazier