How to Start Reading the Bible: Simple Methods for Daily Study
Whether you’re opening the Bible for the very first time or getting back into a daily Bible reading habit, welcome! At Palm Beach Lakes Church of Christ, we’re excited to walk alongside you on this life-changing journey. We know that beginning—or beginning again—can sometimes feel overwhelming. There are so many books, names, and teachings in the Bible that it’s easy to wonder where to start or how to keep going.
The good news is: reading the Bible doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple and practical steps, you can build a meaningful habit that draws you closer to God every day.
Pick a Reading Plan or a Starting Point
One of the best ways to stay on track and feel guided is by using a Bible reading plan. These plans are designed to help you read the Bible in manageable sections over time. You can choose from a variety of options:
- Yearly plans that cover the entire Bible
- Monthly or 90-day plans that focus on specific themes or sections
- Chronological plans that follow the timeline of events
You can find Bible reading plans in apps, printed devotionals, or right here through the Palm Beach Lakes church of Christ’s daily Bible reading plans. These are great tools to keep you focused and moving forward, day by day.
If a structured plan doesn’t appeal to you, that’s okay! Choose your own starting point. Many new readers begin with the Gospel of John to learn about the life of Jesus, or the Psalms for encouragement and prayer. Others enjoy starting at the very beginning in Genesis. When choosing your own place to start, aim to read one or two chapters each day.
Set a Manageable Goal and Routine
A strong habit starts small. Try setting aside just 5 to 15 minutes a day for reading. That’s often enough time to read a chapter or two and reflect on what you’ve learned.
Pick a time that fits naturally into your schedule—perhaps in the morning before the day begins, during lunch, or before bed. Setting a reminder can help, whether it’s a simple phone alarm or a Bible app notification. Some reminders even include your daily verses to make it even easier to read the Bible regularly.
Keep a Journal or Take Notes
Taking a few minutes to write down what you read can deepen your understanding. Jot down:
- Key verses that stood out
- Personal insights or connections
- Questions you want to explore later
- Prayers inspired by your reading
Even simple notes help you reflect and remember. Over time, you’ll build a record of your spiritual growth—something you can return to for encouragement or study.
Give Yourself Grace
You don’t have to be perfect. If you miss a day—or even a week—don’t give up. Just pick up where you left off and keep going. The goal isn’t to check off boxes; it’s to grow closer to God.
Some passages may be confusing. That’s normal! Keep reading, write down your questions, and pray about them. God wants to hear from you, and many answers will come over time as your understanding grows. Remember, reading the Bible is a journey, not a race.
Don’t Wait for Tomorrow—Start Reading the Bible Today!
Here’s your invitation: start today, even if it’s just reading one verse. Build from there. The key is to start small, stay consistent, and seek understanding.
We invite you to explore the Bible reading plans from Palm Beach Lakes Church of Christ and find one that fits your life. You don’t have to do this alone—we’d love to read and study with you.
Explore our website to learn more, or contact us today. Let’s grow in God’s Word—together.