Where to Start Reading the Bible: A Guide for Beginners
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Starting to read the Bible can feel a little overwhelming at first, and that’s completely okay. The beautiful thing is - there’s no one “right” way to begin. The Bible is a personal and meaningful journey, and you’re free to start wherever feels most comfortable or interesting to you. Take your time, and let it speak to your heart in its own way.
Here are a few simple ideas to help you get started:
1. Start with the Gospels
If you’re looking for a clear starting point, the Gospel of John is a beautiful choice. It focuses on who Jesus is and why He came, written in a heartfelt, reflective way.
You might also consider reading Mark — it’s the shortest Gospel and tells the story of Jesus in a fast-paced, easy-to-follow style.
The Gospels introduce you to Jesus, the central figure of the Bible, and give you a solid foundation for understanding the rest of Scripture.
2. Read a Psalm a Day
The Psalms are prayers, poems, and songs that speak honestly about life - joy, fear, hope, and everything in between. Reading one Psalm a day can be a gentle way to connect with God and reflect.
My recommendation is to start with Psalm 23 — it’s short, comforting, and deeply loved by many.
3. Try a Bible Reading Plan
There are lots of beginner-friendly reading plans out there - some take you through key parts of the Bible in 30 days, others guide you through one book at a time.
Apps like YouVersion or websites like BibleGateway offer free plans that you can follow at your own pace.
4. Begin with a Story
If you like stories, you might enjoy books like:
Genesis – the beginning of everything
Exodus – the story of freedom and God's faithfulness
Ruth – a short, beautiful story of loyalty and redemption
Acts – the start of the early church and the movement that followed Jesus
These books read like narratives and can be easier to follow if you're used to stories.
You don’t need to understand everything right away. It’s okay to have questions, to pause and take your time. Think of reading the Bible as getting to know a friend - it happens slowly over time.
I also recommend getting a journaling Bible - either a physical one like this one or a digital version like the one I use. It gives you space to write down your thoughts, prayers, questions, or anything that stands out as you read. Over time, you’ll begin to see how your understanding grows and how God speaks to you in different ways.
A Simple Prayer to Begin
“God, I want to know You. Help me understand what I read. Speak to my heart and guide me as I begin. Amen.”
Wherever you start, the most important thing is that you start. Whether you read a little or a lot, whether you understand everything or just a part, each step you take matters.
Take your time. Remember that you're not behind - you're right where you need to be.
