How To Start Reading the Bible
When I became a Christian, I didn’t know how to read the Bible, and I remember feeling intimidated about where to begin. So, let me give you a few suggestions that might really help you.
First, start in the New Testament. Get a translation that’s easy for you to read, such as the New Living Translation, and then just start reading it. Just put it in your daily schedule. Even if you don’t understand it all, don’t sweat it. Just read through the New Testament and say, “God, speak to me.” You’ll be excited about what happens.
Also, I’d like to recommend two tools for you. One is my free audio series, Pathways to Intimacy with God. In it, I explain how to study and read the Bible devotionally, how to pray, and how to meet with other Christians and experience Christ in those relationships. The series explores the ancient paths of how we receive and relate to God and experience His grace.
Current Series
Be Strong and Courageous
Eight impactful psalms that will strengthen your faith and help you conquer your fears
Free MP3Listen NowThe second tool is a Bible, which was created by an organization called Walk Thru the Bible. It’s called The Daily Walk Bible, and it takes you through the entire Bible in a year. You don’t have to totally stay on track—it’s okay if it takes you a year and a half—but basically, as you read, it gives you the background of Scripture passages, specific insight, and ways to apply it. I read The Daily Walk Bible every year for probably the first fifteen years I was a Christian. It’s an awesome resource, and I think you’ll really enjoy it.
So, are you ready? Find a Bible version you’re comfortable with, start in the New Testament, check out that series I talked about (Pathways to Intimacy with God), and then get a Daily Walk Bible and see if you can’t just say, “God, speak to me.”
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Pathways to Intimacy with God Personal Bible Study
Living on the Edge Prayer Journal
How to Experience God in Prayer Online Course
READ & REFLECT
The 1 Revealing Thing About God’s Perspective of You and Me
Six Scriptures That Reveal Profound Truths About God’s Love for Us
How to Read the Bible: 5 Memorable Steps to Transformation
WATCH
What You Need to Know About Life Change
Understanding the Character of God
Written By
Chip Ingram
Founder & Teaching Pastor, Living on the Edge
Chip Ingram is the CEO and teaching pastor of Living on the Edge, an international teaching and discipleship ministry. A pastor for over thirty years, Chip has a unique ability to communicate truth and challenge people to live out their faith. He is the author of many books, including The Real God, Culture Shock and The Real Heaven. Chip and his wife, Theresa, have four grown children and twelve grandchildren and live in California.
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