How to Read the Bible: A Beginner’s Guide

DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I make a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. For more information, please read my Disclaimer.

When I first started reading the Bible, I remember feeling overwhelmed. It’s such a big book, filled with history, poetry, wisdom, and stories that span thousands of years. If you’re feeling the same way, you’re not alone. Many people wonder how to read the Bible in a way that feels manageable, meaningful, and helpful in their daily life. But the truth is, there’s no one right way to approach it. What matters most is simply getting started and allowing God to speak through His Word.

In this post, I want to walk you through a simple, step-by-step guide on how to read the Bible—whether you’re a complete beginner or just getting back into the habit. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a solid foundation to start reading with confidence and, most importantly, to grow closer to God through your daily time in the Word.

Step 1: Start with Prayer

Before diving into Scripture, it’s essential to begin with prayer. The Bible is not just a book; it’s God’s living Word, and it’s meant to draw us closer to Him. Prayer opens our hearts to hear what God wants to reveal to us.

A simple prayer before reading might sound something like this:
“Lord, open my heart and mind to understand Your Word today. Speak to me through the Scriptures and help me apply it to my life.”

Praying before you read sets the tone for your time in the Bible, allowing God to guide your reading and help you absorb the lessons He has for you.

Step 2: Choose the Right Bible Translation

One of the first things people often ask is, “How do I choose the right Bible?” There are so many different translations out there, and it can be hard to know where to start. But the good news is, there’s a translation for everyone, depending on your preferences and reading style.

Here are a few translations I’d recommend, especially for beginners:

• NIV (New International Version): This translation strikes a great balance between readability and accuracy, making it a popular choice for those starting out.
• NLT (New Living Translation): If you want something even easier to understand, this translation uses more modern language without sacrificing meaning.
• ESV (English Standard Version): If you prefer a translation that stays closer to the original text, this one is highly regarded for its accuracy, though it can be a bit more formal.

If you’re new to Bible reading, I recommend starting with one of these translations. My personal favorite is the NKJV, but it may not be the best translation for a beginner. Choose one that feels the most natural to you. You might even want to try reading a passage in two different translations to see which one resonates more.

Check out my Amazon storefront for some great recommendations.

Step 3: Start with the Gospels

When you’re asking how to read the Bible as a beginner, it’s tempting to start at the very beginning with Genesis or dive into one of the Old Testament books. But I’ve found that starting with the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John—can be the best way to begin. Why? Because the Gospels focus on the life, teachings, and work of Jesus, which is the heart of the Christian faith.

I personally recommend starting with the Gospel of John. It’s often the easiest to understand, and it gives a beautiful picture of who Jesus is. You’ll learn about His character, His love for people, and His divine mission. The stories are relatable, and they’ll help you understand why Jesus is so central to our faith.

You can also start with Mark if you prefer a shorter, more fast-paced account of Jesus’ life. If you’d like a more detailed narrative, Matthew is a good choice. Whatever you choose, begin with one of these four Gospels and spend some time getting to know Jesus through the Scriptures.

Step 4: Develop a Reading Habit

One of the most important aspects of learning how to read the Bible is developing a consistent habit. It’s easy to get excited about reading for a few days or even weeks, but it’s that regular, daily time with God that truly helps us grow spiritually.

Here are a few tips to help you build that habit:

• Set a Specific Time: Choose a time of day that works for you. Some people prefer morning reading before starting their day, while others like to read in the evening. The key is consistency.
• Start Small: Don’t pressure yourself to read chapters and chapters each day. Start with 10-15 minutes and work your way up. You don’t have to finish an entire book in a week!
• Use a Bible Reading Plan: If you’re unsure where to start or how to structure your reading, try using a Bible reading plan. Check out some of my free reading plans. Plans help you stay on track and give you direction.

Remember, the goal isn’t to rush through the Bible but to engage with it and let it speak to your heart.

Step 5: Understand What You’re Reading

As you begin reading, it’s important not to just skim through the text, but to truly engage with it. Ask questions, take notes, and allow yourself time to reflect on what you’ve read.

Here are a few practical tips to help you understand what you’re reading:

• Take Notes: Keep a journal or use a Bible with margin space to jot down thoughts or questions. This will help you reflect and learn as you go.
• Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask questions as you read. What is this passage teaching about God? What can I learn about myself from this story? How does this apply to my life today?
• Use Study Tools: If you come across a passage that’s hard to understand, use a Bible dictionary, commentary, or an online resource to dig deeper. Tools like these can help you understand the cultural context, background, and meaning of the text.

Check out my Amazon storefront for some great recommendations.

Step 6: Reflect and Apply

Bible reading isn’t just about knowledge; it’s about transformation. As you read, ask yourself how you can apply what you’ve learned to your life. Maybe you’ve read a passage about forgiveness and realize you need to forgive someone in your life. Or perhaps you’ve learned something about God’s faithfulness, and it encourages you to trust Him more.

Reflection and application are where the power of Scripture really comes to life. After reading, take a moment to reflect on these questions:

• What does this passage say about God’s character?
• How can I apply this to my life today?
• Is there anything I need to change in my life as a result of what I’ve read?

Don’t just read the Bible to check a box. Read it to grow in your relationship with God and allow His Word to shape your life.

Step 7: Be Patient and Persistent

One of the most important things I’ve learned about how to read the Bible is that it’s a journey, not a race. You might not understand everything right away, and that’s okay. Sometimes, Scripture takes time to sink in. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t have a deep understanding immediately—spiritual growth happens over time.

Perseverance is key. Even when it feels hard or you don’t feel like reading, make the effort to stick with it. Over time, you’ll begin to see changes in your heart and life as a result of spending time in God’s Word.

Bonus Tip: Join a Bible Study Group

If you’re wondering how to read a Bible more effectively, one of the best things you can do is join a Bible study group. Having a community of believers to walk alongside you is a huge encouragement. You can learn from others, ask questions, and grow together in understanding.

If you don’t have a group already, consider finding one at your church or online. It can be incredibly helpful to have a group to study with. I highly recommend Bible Study Fellowship if you are looking for a group. It is a nationwide organization and a has free in-person and online groups.

Conclusion

Learning how to read the Bible can seem overwhelming at first, but with a little guidance and some consistency, you can develop a life-changing habit of spending time with God in His Word. Remember to start with prayer, choose a translation that speaks to you, and take it one step at a time. As you engage with Scripture, God will meet you there, speak to your heart, and help you grow in your faith.

Don’t be afraid to start small, and don’t worry about being perfect. Just take that first step, and trust that God will guide you on this journey. Happy reading!