The Bible is one of the most important books in human history. For we Christians, it is God’s Word—full of glory, truth, hope, guidance, and his spirit. In fact, reading the Bible daily is part of a good Christian life. But if you’ve ever opened it and felt overwhelmed, you are not alone.

With its many books, different writing styles, and ancient context, the Bible can feel confusing at first, especially if you’re new to it. This guide will help you understand how to read the Bible in a simple, clear, and meaningful way.

Start With Prayer

Before you begin reading, take a moment to pray. Ask God to help you understand what you read. You can pray something like, “Lord, open my eyes to see the truth in Your Word. Help me understand it and apply it to my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

This simple prayer prepares your heart and reminds you that you are not reading alone—God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit are with you.

Choose a Bible Translation That’s Easy to Understand

There are many Bible translations. Some use old-style language that can be difficult. Others are written in simpler words for everyday readers.

If you’re new to the Bible, try one of these translations:

New Living Translation (NLT)
New International Version (NIV)
Contemporary English Version (CEV)

These versions are faithful to the original meaning but easier to read and understand. As for me, I use the New Living Translation. It is easier for me to understand. Amen! 😄

Begin With the Right Book

The Bible comprises 66 books, consisting of 39 books in the Old Testament and 27 books in the New Testament. However, you don’t have to read it from beginning to end like a regular book.

Here are some good places to start:

The Gospel of John – Tells the story of Jesus’ life and explains who He is.
Psalms – A collection of prayers, praises, and songs that speak to every emotion.
Proverbs – Offers short, wise sayings about life, choices, and character.
Ecclesiastes – Reflects on the meaning of life, purpose, and how to find lasting value in a temporary world.
Ephesians – A letter filled with encouragement about God’s grace, spiritual growth, and unity in Christ.

These books are uplifting, practical, and a great introduction to the heart of the Bible’s message. Alternatively, you can choose any book that the Lord puts in your heart at that moment. That’s because maybe the Lord wants to speak to you through the book He put in your heart.

Read a Little at a Time

You don’t need to read a lot at once. Even a few verses each day can be powerful. Focus on understanding what you read, not how much you read.

Try reading:

One chapter per day
Or a few verses, and reflect on them

It’s not a race. What matters is learning, thinking, and growing in faith.

Use a Bible Reading Plan

A reading plan gives you structure and helps you stay consistent. Many plans are available online or through Bible apps. You can choose:

A 30-day plan about Jesus’ life
A daily Psalm and a Proverb
A Bible-in-a-year plan

Plans make it easier to know what to read next and keep you focused.

📖 30-Day Bible Reading Plan for Beginners

Day 1: John 1 – The Word Became Flesh
Day 2: John 3 – Jesus and New Birth
Day 3: John 4 – The Woman at the Well
Day 4: John 5 – Healing and Authority of Jesus
Day 5: John 6 – Bread of Life

Day 6: John 10 – The Good Shepherd
Day 7: John 11 – Jesus Raises Lazarus
Day 8: John 14 – Jesus Comforts His Followers
Day 9: John 15 – Abide in Me
Day 10: John 17 – Jesus Prays for Us

Day 11: Matthew 5 – The Beatitudes
Day 12: Matthew 6 – Prayer and Trust in God
Day 13: Matthew 7 – Do Not Judge and Build on the Rock
Day 14: Luke 15 – Parables of Lost Things
Day 15: Mark 4 – Parable of the Sower

Day 16: Ecclesiastes 1 – Everything Is Meaningless?
Day 17: Ecclesiastes 3 – A Time for Everything
Day 18: Ecclesiastes 7 – Wisdom for Life
Day 19: Ecclesiastes 12 – Remember Your Creator
Day 20: Proverbs 3 – Trust in the Lord

Day 21: Psalm 1 – The Way of the Righteous
Day 22: Psalm 23 – The Lord is My Shepherd
Day 23: Psalm 27 – The Lord is My Light
Day 24: Psalm 51 – Create in Me a Clean Heart
Day 25: Psalm 91 – God’s Protection

Day 26: Ephesians 1 – Spiritual Blessings in Christ
Day 27: Ephesians 2 – Saved by Grace
Day 28: Ephesians 4 – Living as Children of Light
Day 29: Ephesians 5 – Walk in Love
Day 30: Ephesians 6 – The Armor of God

Ask Questions as You Read

Don’t be afraid to pause and ask:

What is this passage saying?
What does this teach me about God?
Is there a lesson for my life?
Is there a promise to remember?

Asking questions helps you engage with the Bible. And the Holy Spirit will answer your questions. He is your helper. You’re not just reading words—you’re discovering God’s truth.

Write Down What You Learn

Keep a notebook or journal nearby. Write down:

Verses that speak to you
Things you’re learning
Questions you want to explore
Prayers inspired by what you read

This helps you remember what you’ve read and gives you something to look back on later.

Apply What You Read

Reading the Bible is not just for the sake of knowledge. It’s for transformation.

If a verse talks about forgiving others, think of someone you need to forgive. If it speaks about trusting God, ask yourself where you need to place more trust in Him.

God’s Word changes us when we put it into practice.

Read With Others

Reading the Bible with friends, a Bible study group, or family members can help you understand it more deeply. You can talk about what you read, ask questions together, and encourage one another.

When you read together, you grow together.

Don’t Get Discouraged

Some parts of the Bible are easy to understand. Others are harder. That’s normal. Don’t feel discouraged if something confuses you. Keep going. Over time, things become clearer.

You don’t have to be a Bible expert to read the Bible. You just need a heart that wants to learn.

Keep Coming Back to Jesus

The whole Bible points to Jesus. He is the center of the story. When you read the Bible, keep asking, “What does this show me about Jesus?” His life, love, and message are the key to understanding Scripture.

Final Thoughts

Reading the Bible is one of the most powerful habits you can build. It brings peace, wisdom, strength, and a deeper relationship with God. And most importantly, you will have inherited the kingdom of heaven.

You don’t need to have it all figured out. Just begin. Open your Bible. Invite God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit in. Take it one step at a time. You’ll be amazed at how His Word speaks to your heart.