You can start reading the Bible today!

It doesn’t have to be intimidating. We’re here to help!

How to read the Bible for beginners

Step 1: pick a reading plan

You could use our Daily Bible plan, a plan for reading the Bible in a year, or any plan on the YouVersion Bible app!

Having a plan to follow will make it easier to read the Bible consistently. You won’t have to decide what to read each time you pick up your Bible.

Step 2: set aside a special time

  • set aside a few minutes in your day to be alone with God

  • find a quiet place

  • grab your Bible, a journal, and a pen

Step 3: pray before reading the Bible

  • take a few deep breaths and ask God to speak to you through the Bible

Step 4: start reading the Bible!

  • Write down the date and the verses you’re going to read in your journal.

  • Read the verses more than once

  • Look for a verse or phrase that sticks out to you

  • Write those words in your journal

Step 5: examine the text and apply the Bible to your life

  • You’ve already READ the Bible passage.

  • Now EXAMINE the phrases you’ve written down. Ask questions like:

    • To whom was it written and why?

    • Why did the Holy Spirit include this in the Bible?

    • What does this tell me about God?

    • What does this tell me about people?

    • What is God saying to me through these words?

See our video for a helpful explanation of the REAP method that we use!
Read the passage - Examine the text - Apply it to your life - Pray for God’s help

  • Next, APPLY the verses to your life. Ask questions like:

    • What is God saying to me in this?

    • What am I going to do about it?

    • How am I going to live differently as a result of this?

    • Is there something I can start doing or something I need to stop doing?

    • Is there a promise of God that I need to claim for my life?

    • Is there a lesson or a new truth that God is highlighting for me?

    • How could this verse help me today?

  • Talk with God (aka pray!) about what you’ve read. Ask God to help you apply what you’ve read to your life.

  • This is also a great time to talk to God about anything else on your mind. God loves to talk with you!

Step 6: talk to God

One more note: How not to read the Bible

  • Don’t get discouraged and give up if you miss a day or a week or a month of reading the Bible! Every single day offers you a new opportunity to connect with God through the Bible. God loves you and wants to speak to you through his word. So don’t get discouraged. Be encouraged knowing that God is always excited to spend time with you!

We hope you found this article to be helpful! Wherever you are is a great place to start reading the Bible. We would love to help you in your journey to grow closer to God. We believe the absolute best way for us to grow as followers of Jesus is to be in intentional community with other Jesus followers. You can find encouragement as you read the Bible and seek to apply it to your everyday life. If you live near Nashville, TN, we would love to help you get connected with a small group at our church!