How to Read the Bible: Steps for a Transformative Encounter with the Word of God

Reading the Bible is one of the most enriching and life-changing experiences you can have in your life. Not only is it a book full of wisdom, history, and teachings, but it is also a means through which we can get closer to God and experience His presence. If you have ever felt like you don't know where to start or that the Bible is too complex, don't worry! In this blog I will share practical steps so that you can begin reading the Bible with confidence and gain a life-changing experience.

A cozy workspace with a laptop or notepad and a cup of coffee to create a space for studying.

1. Pray Before You Begin

Before you open the pages of the Bible, take a moment to pray. Ask God to guide you as you read, to open your heart and mind to understand His message. Prayer is the first step toward deep reading, because it connects you to the source of wisdom and prepares you to receive what He has in store for you.

Sample Prayer : “Lord, I open Your Word today with humility and a desire to know more about You. Enlighten my mind and heart to understand Your will. Amen.”

2. Establish a Consistent Time and Place

One of the biggest challenges is a lack of consistency. If you don’t set a regular time for Bible reading, it’s easy for other commitments or distractions to get in the way. Find a quiet place where you can focus and a time of day that works for you. Whether it’s in the morning, before bed, or during a break during the day, the key is to make it part of your daily routine.

Practical tip : If you are one of those with a very tight schedule, start with 10 minutes a day. Quality is more important than quantity.

3. Start with the Gospels

If you are new to reading the Bible, I recommend starting with the Gospels. The four books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John tell the story of Jesus' life and teachings. Getting to know Jesus is at the heart of the Bible and our Christian faith. The Gospels will give you a clear view of who He is and how we can follow His example.

Recommendation : Start with the Gospel of John. It is accessible and has a deep focus on the identity of Jesus as the Son of God.

4. Read with Care and Reflection

It's not just about reading for the sake of reading. Take time to reflect on what you're reading. What does this passage mean to you? How does it apply to your life today? Sometimes reading a verse over and over can reveal different things to you. If something resonates with you, pause and meditate on it. If you find something confusing, don't get frustrated! Take time to research, ask others for help, or find additional resources like Bible commentaries.

Tip : Keep a journal of your reading. Jot down questions, thoughts, or ideas that come to mind as you read. It's a great way to grow spiritually.

5. Use a Reading Plan

If you don't know where to start or how to move forward, Bible reading plans are a great tool. There are daily, topical, or chronological reading plans. Some apps and websites, like YouVersion, offer plans you can follow to help you read the entire Bible throughout the year. This gives you structure and motivation to continue, even on the busiest days.

Recommendation : If it is your first time, you can start with a plan that covers the Gospels or the Psalms. This will give you a solid foundation for your spiritual life.

6. Apply what you read to your life

The Bible is not just a book for accumulating knowledge; it is a manual for living. So the key is not just to read, but to apply what you have read to your daily life. Ask yourself: What is God teaching me through this passage? How can I put this into practice today? Obedience to God's word is what transforms your life.

Tip : Try applying a specific verse each day. For example, if you read “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39), look for ways to put this commandment into action.

7. Find Community

We are not meant to live our faith alone. Sharing what you read with others can enrich your understanding of the Word. Whether in a Bible study group, at your church, or with friends, talking about what you are learning will help you grow. Community is essential to walking in faith.

Tip : Join a Bible study group or find a reading partner to support you and motivate you to keep going.

8. Be Patient and Persevering

The journey of Bible reading will not always be easy, but perseverance bears fruit. There will be days when you don't understand everything you read, or you feel distracted, but keep going. Every time you confront God's word, something is happening in your heart, even if you don't immediately perceive it.

Reminder : The Bible is an inexhaustible source of wisdom. No matter how many times you read it, there will always be something new to learn.

Make the Bible Part of Your Life!

Don't let routine or distractions keep you from the Bible. Today is the perfect day to start. Set your plan, pray, read, and allow God's word to transform your life. Remember that the Bible is not just an ancient book, but a living letter of love and wisdom written especially for you. If you follow these steps, you will not only know more about God, but you will experience His power and peace in every area of your life.

Don't put it off until tomorrow! Take action today and start reading the Bible. Each page is a step toward a deeper encounter with your Creator.