Practical Ways to Read Your Bible Without Feeling Overwhelmed

January 15, 2025

For many people, opening the Bible can feel a little intimidating. It’s a big book with history, poetry, prophecy, letters, and teachings woven together over thousands of years. Maybe you’ve tried before and stopped because you didn’t know where to begin. The good news is, reading your Bible doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a few practical steps, you can create a rhythm that feels natural and life-giving.

1. Start Small, Not Big

Instead of trying to read the entire Bible in one go or setting a huge goal right away, begin with smaller portions. Reading a few verses or a short chapter daily is more sustainable than trying to plow through multiple chapters at once. The point is consistency, not speed.

2. Choose a Starting Point That Makes Sense

Many people begin in Genesis, but that can be challenging because of the long genealogies and laws. A great place to start is with the Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John), which tell the story of Jesus. The book of Psalms is also great for prayer and encouragement, while Proverbs offers practical wisdom for daily life.

3. Use a Reading Plan

A Bible reading plan can give you structure and remove the stress of deciding what to read each day. Plans can focus on different themes, like a 30-day overview of Jesus’ life, or a one-year plan that takes you through the entire Bible. Apps like YouVersion or printable guides from churches are easy resources.

4. Pray Before You Read

Ask God to open your heart and mind before you begin. Something as simple as, “Lord, help me understand what I’m reading and how it applies to my life” can shift your focus from just reading words to truly listening.

5. Take Notes or Journal

Writing down a verse that stands out, a question that comes to mind, or how the passage applies to your life can make reading more interactive. Journaling also gives you something to look back on and see how God has spoken to you over time.

6. Read With Others

Joining a Bible study group or even reading with a friend can bring fresh insights. Discussing what you’re learning can make Scripture more understandable and personal.

7. Remember Quality Over Quantity

It’s not about how much you read but how much you take in. Sometimes, reflecting on a single verse all day can be more powerful than rushing through several chapters.

8. Be Patient With Yourself

The Bible is a lifelong journey, not a sprint. Don’t worry if you don’t understand everything right away. None of us do. The more you read, the more you’ll grow in familiarity and understanding.