Starting to read the Bible can feel overwhelming. With 66 books, different styles, and unfamiliar names, many beginners wonder:
- Where do I start?
- How much should I read each day?
- How do I understand what I’m reading?
The good news is this: you don’t have to read the Bible perfectly — you just need to start.
This beginner-friendly Bible reading plan is designed to help you build a daily habit, understand Scripture clearly, and grow in your relationship with God — one step at a time.
🌱 Why Use a Bible Reading Plan?
A Bible reading plan gives you direction, structure, and consistency. Instead of randomly flipping pages, a plan helps you read with purpose.
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” — Psalm 119:105
Benefits of a Bible reading plan:
- Removes confusion about where to start
- Builds a daily habit
- Helps you understand the big picture of Scripture
- Encourages spiritual growth and consistency
For beginners, a simple and flexible plan works best.
📘 Which Bible Should Beginners Use?
Before starting a plan, choose a Bible that’s easy to read.
Beginner-friendly translations:
- NIV (New International Version)
- NLT (New Living Translation)
- ESV (English Standard Version – slightly more literal)
Choose a translation you can understand — clarity matters more than complexity.
📖 Best Place to Start Reading the Bible
Many beginners try to start at Genesis and stop shortly after. Instead, it’s better to begin with the heart of the Bible — Jesus.
Recommended reading order:
- The Gospels – Learn who Jesus is
- Psalms – Grow in prayer and emotion
- Proverbs – Gain wisdom for daily life
- Acts – See how the early church lived
- Genesis – Understand God’s story from the beginning
🗓️ 30-Day Bible Reading Plan for Beginners
This simple plan takes 10–15 minutes a day and balances understanding, encouragement, and wisdom.
📅 Week 1: Knowing Jesus (Gospel of John)
- Day 1: John 1
- Day 2: John 3
- Day 3: John 4
- Day 4: John 6
- Day 5: John 10
- Day 6: John 14
- Day 7: John 20
📅 Week 2: Prayer, Emotions, and Wisdom
- Day 8: Psalm 1
- Day 9: Psalm 23
- Day 10: Psalm 27
- Day 11: Psalm 51
- Day 12: Proverbs 1
- Day 13: Proverbs 3
- Day 14: Proverbs 16
📅 Week 3: Living the Christian Life
- Day 15: Matthew 5
- Day 16: Matthew 6
- Day 17: Matthew 7
- Day 18: Romans 8
- Day 19: Romans 12
- Day 20: Galatians 5
- Day 21: Ephesians 6
📅 Week 4: God’s Story and Your Purpose
- Day 22: Genesis 1
- Day 23: Genesis 12
- Day 24: Exodus 20
- Day 25: Joshua 1
- Day 26: Isaiah 43
- Day 27: Jeremiah 29
- Day 28: Acts 2
- Day 29: Acts 4
- Day 30: Revelation 21
🙏 How to Read the Bible as a Beginner
Before reading, pray a simple prayer:
“God, help me understand Your Word and apply it to my life.”
While reading, ask:
- What does this passage say about God?
- What does it teach me about life?
- How can I apply this today?
After reading, reflect for a moment — growth comes through understanding and obedience, not speed.
🌿 Tips to Stay Consistent
- Read at the same time each day
- Start small — even 5 minutes matters
- Use a journal for notes and prayers
- Don’t quit if you miss a day — just continue
- Focus on progress, not perfection
“The one who is faithful in very little is also faithful in much.” — Luke 16:10
🌈 What Happens When You Read the Bible Regularly?
As you read consistently, you’ll begin to notice:
- Greater peace and clarity
- Stronger faith and confidence
- Better decision-making
- Deeper understanding of God’s love
“Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” — Romans 10:17
FAQ: Bible Reading Plan for Beginners
How long should beginners read the Bible each day?
Start with 10–15 minutes a day. Consistency matters more than length.
Do I need to understand everything I read?
No. Understanding grows over time. Focus on learning a little each day and trust God to guide you.
What if I miss a day?
Don’t feel guilty. Simply continue the next day. God values faithfulness, not perfection.
Should I read the Old or New Testament first?
Beginners should start with the New Testament, especially the Gospels, to understand Jesus and the foundation of faith.
Can beginners really understand the Bible?
Yes. God’s Word is for everyone. With prayer, patience, and consistency, understanding will grow (Psalm 119:130).
🌟 Final Encouragement
You don’t need to be an expert to read the Bible — you just need an open heart.
“The unfolding of Your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” — Psalm 119:130
Start where you are. Read one passage at a time. God will meet you there — and guide you every step of the way.
