Easy Bible Study Tips & Resources to Get You Started

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Are you looking for some practical Bible study tips? I know it can feel overwhelming—there are so many resources out there, each claiming to be the best.

I want to begin by sharing the importance of Bible study and then offer some Bible study tips and resources that have helped me along the way. This isn’t a comprehensive list, and not everything may work for you—and that’s okay.

There are countless Bible study tools, tips, and resources available: different translations, study guides, workbooks, journals, and more. Each promises great results, but the truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all method. We all learn differently, and that’s something to embrace rather than stress about.

I used to get stuck trying to figure out the “how.” I’d spend so much time choosing a study method or resource that I’d never actually get to the study part. Can you relate? If so, I hope this guide helps you bypass that paralysis and just get started.

Why Is Bible Study Important?

Growing in your relationship with God should be the most essential part of your day. When you spend time in His Word, you gain clarity on who He is and who you are in Him. You begin to understand His promises, His truth, and His heart.

Studying the Bible strengthens and equips you. Scripture is described as living and powerful (1 Peter 1:23), sharper than any two-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12), and able to prepare you for whatever life throws your way (Ephesians 6:10-18). These are just a few reasons why consistent time in the Word is so crucial.

When you start your day with God—even just 10 minutes—it often changes your whole perspective. His Word has a way of grounding you and helping you walk through each day with purpose and peace.

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What Resources Do I Need for Bible Study?

Here are some of my favorite Bible study resources. Keep in mind: not every day will include all of these. Sometimes, I simply read Scripture and journal my thoughts.

1. Bible

There are many translations, and finding the right one can feel overwhelming. Some of my favorites include:

• NLT – Clear and easy to understand
• Amplified – Adds deeper explanation for fuller meaning
• The Message – Written in everyday language (I recommend using it alongside a more literal translation)
• NKJV – My personal favorite; it’s the version I’ve used for years and feel most comfortable with

TRANSLATION	PSALM 23:1
NKJV	The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
NLT	The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.
AMPLIFIED	The Lord is my Shepherd [to feed, to guide and to shield me], I shall not want.
MESSAGE	God, my shepherd! I don’t need a thing.

Study Bibles are also very helpful—they often include historical context, cross-references, word studies, and commentary.

2. Journal or Notebook

While there are beautiful Bible study journals available, I use a simple lined notebook. Choose what works best for you—lined or unlined, digital or paper.

3. Writing Utensils

I love Papermate InkJoy pens because they write smoothly and come in lots of colors. But you should use whatever pen or pencil feels right for you.

4. Bible Highlighters

These are designed to avoid bleed-through on thin Bible pages. I use different colors to highlight key themes, promises, or commands.

5. Strong’s Concordance

This is one of my favorite Bible study tools. It helps you dive into the original Greek or Hebrew meaning of a word so you can better understand the context of what you’re reading.

6. Plan or Study Guide

There are hundreds of reading plans, devotionals, and topic-based studies. Choose one that speaks to your current season or spiritual goal. You can also create your own plan around a theme or Bible book.

7. Dedicated Space

Find a quiet, comfortable space where you won’t be easily distracted. I use my couch and keep a basket nearby with all my study materials. This makes it easy to sit down and get started.

Bible Study Tips That Work for Me

There’s no single method that works for everyone. Below are some Bible study tips that I’ve found helpful. Feel free to adapt them to your needs.

1. Set a Time

Consistency is key. Choose a time of day when you’re most alert and free from distractions. Some people prefer early mornings; others (like me) study after they’ve fully woken up. The important thing is having a set time that works for your lifestyle.

2. Make a Plan

What will you study? A specific book? A topic like “peace” or “faith”? A devotional series? Having a plan takes the guesswork out of your time with God.

3. Focus

Eliminate distractions. Silence your phone. Take a deep breath. Begin with prayer, asking God to speak through His Word and help you understand what He’s saying.

4. Read the Passage

I like to read a passage three times:

• First, I read aloud from my regular Bible (NKJV).
• Then, I read the same passage in the Amplified or Message version.
• Finally, I write the passage out in my notebook, leaving a blank line between each row so I can add notes later.

5. Write It Out

I define unfamiliar words, write down any insights, and paraphrase the passage in my own words. This helps me process and retain what I’ve read.

6. Pray & Apply

I ask God how the passage applies to my life and what I should do in response. This step turns study into transformation.

Final Thoughts

I hope these Bible study tips and resources help you feel less overwhelmed and more equipped to start—or strengthen—your time in God’s Word. You don’t need to do everything perfectly; just take the next right step.

The most important thing is to be consistent and open to how God wants to speak to you. Let this be a flexible guide, not a rigid checklist.