The Bible, as the Word of God, can feel overwhelming at first—where should you begin?
I understand—I’ve been there. Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through some simple steps to start reading and understanding your Bible.
If you’re new to Bible study, check out my previous post on Bible study materials to guide you in choosing the right tools.
Why Read the Bible:
“All scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17
The phrase “inspired by God” comes from the Greek word theopneustos, which means “God-breathed”.
- While it’s true that the Bible had many human authors—prophets, apostles, and believers—everything in it originates from God. These individuals wrote down the words God spoke to them. It’s a partnership between human hands and divine inspiration.
- According to the scripture, the Word of God serves several purposes:
- Teaching: Whether for new or seasoned believers, the Word of God is living and active, continually offering fresh lessons and guidance.
- Reproof: A loving correction, pointing out where we may be going astray.
- Correction: Helping us recognize and address our mistakes.
- Training in righteousness: The Bible teaches us how to live right according to God’s ways.
This process helps us grow in faith and wisdom—not earthly wisdom, but wisdom that comes from God and never loses its value. This, in turn, deepens our relationship with God.
Where to Start
- Begin with the Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John.
- These books tell the story of Jesus’ life on earth—His character, the miracles He performed, His death on the cross, and His resurrection. Each Gospel shares the same story, but emphasizes different aspects for different audiences. Personally, my favorite is John.
- Psalms and Proverbs are also great starting points. Psalms offers encouragement for any mood, while Proverbs is full of wisdom!
Tips for beginning:
- Start small: Begin with just one passage or chapter a day. This keeps things manageable and prevents feeling overwhelmed.
- Choose a clear translation: Versions like NLT or NIV offer straightforward, easy-to-understand wording, which is especially helpful for beginner.
How to Understand What You Read:
- Pray before you start: Psalms 119:18 says, “Open my eyes to see the wonderful truths in Your instruction.” Ask God to guide you and reveal His Word to you.
- Take it slow: Focus on a passage or even a verse at a time. It’s more important to understand what you’re reading than to rush through it.
- Journal your thoughts: Write down any reflections or questions you have. Journaling helps you process and internalize what you read.
- Use resources: Commentaries like Enduring Word can offer valuable insights into what you’re reading.
- Pray after you read: Ask God to help you reflect on what you’ve learned. Joshua 1:8 says, “Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night…” Meditating means reflecting on what God’s Word reveals about His character and His ways, not emptying your mind as modern culture suggests.
Make Bible Reading a Habit:
- Set a regular time: Try to read the Bible in the morning when you first wake up. Starting you day with God sets the tone and bring peace and assurance for the day.
- Start small: Begin with 10-15 minutes a day.
- Use tools: The YouVersion Bible App is great for Bible plans and devotionals that help you stay focused and give your reading structure.
Encouragement to Keep Going:
It’s okay to feel confused or not understand everything right away. The key is to keep going. Remember, this is a journey, not a race.
As you read, trust that God’s Word is transforming you, even if you don’t see it immediately. God is not a man that He should lie—everything He has spoken in His Word is true. Isaiah 55:11 assures us that His Word will always produce fruit. **
Spoiler alert: This is the start of a wonderful relationship with the Lord. His Word will refine you, challenge you, build you up, encourage you, most of all, draw you closer to His love.
Challenge: Start today by reading one chapter from the Gospels and journaling about what it reveals about Jesus.
A Prayer for You
Lord God, I thank You for the person reading this post. I pray that You would be present with them and guide them as they read Your word. I pray Holy Spirit that you would reveal Jesus as they read, and You would encourage them to keep coming back and feasting on Your word for it is nourishment for their soul and a blessing to their spirit. I thank You for this word and like You said through the prophet Isaiah, let it go forth and produce fruit. We thank You, Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.
What book of the Bible are you starting with? Share in the comments so we can encourage each other!
Terry’ana xx