Have you ever wanted to read the Bible but felt overwhelmed by where to begin? You’re not alone.
Many women desire a deeper relationship with God but struggle with where to start reading the Bible. With sixty-six books, over thirty thousand verses, and a history spanning centuries, it’s easy to feel lost before you even open the first page.
But here’s the good news: You don’t have to figure it out alone.
If you’re wondering where to start reading the Bible as a beginner, there is a simple way to begin your journey through God’s Word—one that will help you grow in understanding, deepen your faith, and experience the Bible as God’s living Word for your life today.
Why Reading the Bible Matters
The Bible isn’t just another book—it’s God’s living Word, given to us so we can know Him personally.
As 2 Timothy 3:16 tells us, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and training in righteousness.”
Every page of Scripture is a gift, designed to shape our lives, deepen our understanding, and guide us closer to God.
Did you know that people who engage with the Bible at least four times a week are more likely to experience positive life changes?
According to an article by Focus on the Family,
- Reading the Bible decreases fear and anxiety by 14%.
- Bible reading reduces feelings of spiritual stagnation by 60%.
- Reading the Bible reduces feelings of loneliness by 30%.
Opening your Bible isn’t just about gaining knowledge—it’s about transforming your life.
The thought of reading through the entire Bible can be overwhelming, but rather than focusing on the magnitude of sixty-six books, consider instead how you will grow in knowledge and intimacy with God as you journey through His Word.
As a beginner, approach reading through the Bible as a journey of growing in faith, wisdom, and relationship with God. As you read, God will reveal Himself to you, shaping your heart and strengthening your faith step by step.
How to Start Reading the Bible for Beginners
Whether you are a beginner Bible reader or seasoned in your walk with God and desire to revisit the fundamentals, being intentional about starting in the right place makes all the difference.
Instead of beginning at Genesis and reading straight through to Revelation, a strategic approach will help you better understand God’s message and apply it to your life.
As you’re deciding where to start reading the Bible, here’s a path I recommend.
1. Gospel Foundations: The Book of John
The best place to start reading the Bible is the Gospel of John. Why? Because it provides a clear and personal introduction to Jesus—who He is, why He came, and what that means for you.
- John reveals Jesus as the Son of God and the Savior of the world.
- It contains simple yet profound truths that are easy to grasp.
- The book is filled with stories of Jesus’ love, miracles, and teachings that apply directly to our lives.
2. Early Church and Practical Christian Living: Acts, James, and 1 John (Chapters 1–3)
Once you have a foundation of Jesus’ life and mission, Acts will show you what happened next—the birth of the church and the Holy Spirit’s power working through believers. James and 1 John provide practical wisdom on how to live out your faith daily.
- Acts: Discover how the early church grew and what it means to follow Jesus boldly.
- James: Learn practical steps for living a life of faith and perseverance.
- 1 John (Chapters 1–3): Understand the depth of God’s love and how to walk in the light.
3. Beginnings and Promises: The Book of Genesis
After understanding Jesus and how the early church lived out His teachings, go back to the beginning. Genesis introduces you to God as Creator, the origins of sin, and His plan to redeem humanity through His promises.
- See how God established His covenant with Abraham.
- Discover how His promises foreshadow Jesus.
- Understand the foundations of faith and God’s unchanging nature.
As you go through these passages, read one chapter at a time, reflecting on Jesus’ words and actions while journaling key takeaways about God’s character, His plan for humanity, and practical applications for daily life.
While there is a lot more Bible to explore, this is a good first step. From here, you can begin to study themes, stories of biblical characters, and other topics that allow you to grow deeper with God.
Daily Reflection Questions as You Read
To make your Bible reading meaningful, ask yourself these questions each day:
- What is God revealing about His character in today’s reading?
- How does this Scripture apply to my life today?
- What step of faith or action is God asking me to take based on today’s reading?
Journaling your answers will help you internalize God’s Word and see His hand at work in your life.
How to Stay Consistent in Your Bible Reading
Starting strong is great, but consistency is key. Here are some simple ways to stay on track:
- Set a specific time each day to read. Morning, lunch break, or before bed—find what works best for you.
- Use a structured Bible study guide. This Deeper with God Daily Guide provides a simple framework to help you dig in more extensively.
- Read alongside a Bible study. These theological Bible studies can help you gain deeper insights from Scripture you may not notice on your own.
- Pray before and after reading. Ask God to open your heart and speak to you through His Word.
- Join a Bible study group. Community helps you stay encouraged and accountable.
- Give yourself grace. If you miss a day, don’t quit! Simply pick up where you left off.
What Happens When You Commit to This Journey?
If you commit to reading the Bible consistently, here’s what you can expect:
- A Stronger Relationship with God: The more you engage with His Word, the closer you’ll walk with Him.
- Spiritual Growth and Confidence: You’ll gain wisdom, discernment, and a deeper understanding of God’s plan for your life.
- Transformation from the Inside Out: God’s Word renews your mind and changes your heart, bringing peace, joy, and purpose.
Ready to Begin?
Are you a Christian woman seeking to deepen your relationship with God and enhance your understanding of His Word? You don’t have to do this alone. The Deeper with God Daily Guide is a great tool to help guide you through Scripture, providing space to reflect, apply, and pray over what you’re learning.
Start your journey today and experience the power of God’s living Word in your life.
Get the Deeper with God Daily Guide here.
