You’ve already noticed how huge the Bible is and understandably felt a little overwhelmed! It’s a good idea to spend a short time reading the Bible every day and reflecting on its meaning for your own life.
But most people worry about reading it because they:
- Don’t know where to start
- Don’t understand it
- Cannot figure out how any of it relates to them
We have all struggled with getting started, but God gave us the Holy Bible because He knows we need it!
All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.2 Timothy 3:16-17
A great place to begin is with the New Testament (NT). The NT contains the story of Jesus, the very reason why we are known as Christians and are set apart from any other faith.
If you want a ‘guided tour’ of the NT, grab a bible study and check this list for our starter recommendations. A bible study will break down a section, examine the meaning and give you questions to consider how it relates to you. They can usually be used for solo study, or in a group too.
Perhaps you want a bible that is easier to read - and don’t worry, most people struggle with the old language! Check out the New Living Translation; this Bible translation combines the latest biblical scholarship with a clear, dynamic writing style to powerfully communicate God’s word. It renders the message of the original texts of Scripture into clear, contemporary English and was designed to be read aloud. Readers of the New Living Translation are encouraged to get into the biblical text to discover God’s story for their lives and the world.
If you want to know how it relates to you specifically, try a devotional. Devotionals are short, daily readings that link circumstances, themes or interests, to passages in the Bible; prompting your own thinking. There are literally tons of devotionals out there, so here’s a list on popular subjects. We also love these free email devotionals.
It’s 100% worth knowing that the Bible contains the keys to living a healthy, positive and free life in Christ. God gave us His Word so that we might know what to do in all sorts of circumstances. In the Bible we can find answers to many questions and it’s the first and last place to look for guidance – God has the direction and encouragement we need.