You can start reading the Bible by picking a modern translation and beginning with the Gospel of John rather than starting at the very first page. The Bible is a library of 66 books, and diving into the life of Jesus gives you the best foundation for understanding the rest of the story. By setting a consistent time and asking God for help, you can turn a daunting book into a life-changing daily habit.
Start with the Right Translation
One of the biggest hurdles to reading the Bible is the language. If you try to read a version from four hundred years ago, you might get bogged down in “thees” and “thous.” To make your reading experience enjoyable and clear, choose a modern translation like the New Living Translation (NLT). It is written in plain English that sounds like a conversation, which helps the message sink into your heart without a struggle.
If you prefer something a bit more formal but still very clear, the New International Version (NIV) is a great choice. The goal isn’t to look smart; it’s to understand what God is saying to you. When you can read the text easily, you are more likely to stay consistent. Think of it like a window—you want the glass to be as clear as possible so you can see the view on the other side.
Don’t Start on Page One
Most people start the Bible at Genesis, but many get stuck by the time they hit the detailed laws in Leviticus. While every book is important, the Bible is a story that centers on Jesus. For this reason, the best place to start is the Gospel of John in the New Testament. This book was written specifically so that readers would believe in Jesus and find life in Him.
After you finish John, keep reading through the end of the New Testament. Then you can go back and finish the other Gospels—Matthew, Mark, and Luke—and eventually the Old Testament. By starting with the life and teachings of Christ, the rest of the Bible starts to make a lot more sense. You’ll begin to see how the Old Testament points toward Him and how the New Testament explains how to follow Him.
Create a Simple Plan
Consistency is more important than quantity. It is better to read five minutes a day than to read for two hours once a month. Pick a specific time and place—like at the kitchen table with your morning coffee or right before bed. Having a “reading spot” helps your brain realize it’s time to focus on God’s Word. Don’t feel pressured to read whole chapters; even a few verses can be enough to fuel your soul for the day.
Psalm 119:105 Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.
Just like a lamp only shows you the next few steps in the dark, you don’t need to understand the whole Bible at once. You just need enough light for your next step today. Using a reading app or a printed plan can also take the guesswork out of what to read next. There are many “Bible in a Year” plans, but if you’re just starting, look for a “30 Days with Jesus” plan to build your momentum.
Read with an Open Heart
The Bible is different from any other book because the Author is actually present with you when you read it. Before you open the pages, take ten seconds to say a simple prayer: “God, please show me something today that I need to hear.” This shifts your reading from a chore to a conversation. You aren’t just looking for information; you are looking for a relationship.
As you read, ask yourself three simple questions: What does this say about God? What does this say about people? And how can I apply this to my life today? If a verse stands out to you, write it down or highlight it. This helps you move from just reading the words to actually living them out.
James 1:22 But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves.
The Bible is meant to be a mirror that shows us who we are and a map that shows us where to go. You don’t have to be a scholar or have a degree in theology to hear from God. He wants to talk to you, and He has provided His Word as the primary way to do that. Just take it one day at a time, and watch how your life begins to change. Eventually, you can move from reading to studying the Bible.
The Takeaway
Starting the Bible doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Choose a readable translation like the NLT, start with the Gospel of John, and commit to just a few minutes a day. By asking God to guide you and looking for ways to apply what you read, the Bible will become a source of strength and wisdom. The most important part of reading the Bible is simply showing up and starting today.
