Have you ever opened the Bible, read a few verses, and wondered where to begin?
Maybe you have wanted to read Scripture more consistently but found yourself overwhelmed by its length, unfamiliar names, or difficult passages. Or perhaps you started a reading plan with enthusiasm, only to give up a few weeks later.
You are not alone.
Learning how to start reading the Bible does not require understanding everything immediately. It begins with developing a simple habit of spending time with God’s Word.
At Bethany Church, a church in Red Lion, PA, we believe that small, intentional spiritual habits can help us develop a deeper relationship with God. Reading Scripture is one of the most meaningful places to begin.
Why Is Reading the Bible Important?
We live in a world filled with information. When we have a question, we can search online, watch a video, listen to a podcast, or ask someone for advice.
But where do we turn when we need spiritual wisdom?
Psalm 1:1–3 describes a person who delights in God’s instruction and meditates on it regularly. That person is compared to a tree planted beside streams of water, receiving the nourishment needed to remain fruitful.
The image is powerful.
A healthy tree does not survive because someone occasionally pours water on its leaves. Its roots continually draw nourishment from a dependable source.
Our spiritual lives need that same consistency.
Reading the Bible helps us understand God’s character, recognize His promises, and develop wisdom for everyday decisions. Scripture reminds us who we are and whose we are, especially when life becomes uncertain.
This does not mean every problem disappears. Following Jesus does not guarantee an easier life, but God’s Word can help us navigate difficult seasons with greater faith, purpose, and hope.
How Did Jesus Use Scripture During Difficult Times?
One of the clearest examples of the importance of Scripture comes from Jesus Himself.
In Matthew 4, Jesus faces temptation in the wilderness after fasting for forty days. Each time He is tempted, He responds with Scripture.
He draws from passages in Deuteronomy to remain faithful to God’s will rather than choosing an easier path.
What makes this example meaningful is that Jesus does not suddenly begin searching for spiritual wisdom when temptation arrives. Scripture is already part of His life.
We see something similar during His crucifixion.
In Matthew 27:46, Jesus expresses His suffering using the opening words of Psalm 22. In Luke 23:46, He entrusts Himself to the Father using language from Psalm 31.
Even in moments of extraordinary suffering, the words of Scripture remain central.
These examples invite us to consider an important question: What truths from God’s Word are shaping our responses when life becomes difficult?
When Scripture becomes familiar, we have something to return to during moments of fear, disappointment, temptation, and uncertainty.
Where Should Beginners Start Reading the Bible?
One common mistake is assuming the Bible must be read like an ordinary book, beginning on page one and continuing straight through.
The Bible is actually a collection of 66 books containing history, poetry, prophecy, wisdom, letters, and accounts of Jesus’ life.
Understanding that structure can make reading Scripture feel much less intimidating.
If you are wondering where to start reading the Bible, consider beginning with the Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John.
These books introduce us to Jesus, His teachings, His ministry, and His invitation to follow Him.
From there, you might explore the book of Acts to learn how the early church developed. The New Testament letters also provide practical instruction for Christian living.
The goal is not simply to finish a certain number of chapters.
It is to know God more deeply.
As you read, ask yourself what the passage reveals about God’s character, what it teaches about following Jesus, and how you might apply it to your life.
You do not need to understand every passage on the first reading. Spiritual growth involves patience, questions, and a willingness to keep learning.
How to Build a Daily Bible-Reading Habit
The best Bible-reading plan is one you can realistically maintain.
Instead of committing to reading several chapters every day, begin with something manageable.
Here are five simple ways to get started:
Choose a consistent time. Set aside a few minutes each morning, during lunch, or before bed.
Start with a Gospel. Read a short passage from the life and teachings of Jesus.
Reflect on what you read. Ask what the passage reveals about God and how it relates to your life.
Write down questions. You do not have to understand everything immediately. Questions can become opportunities for growth.
Read with other Christians. A Bible study or small group can provide encouragement, accountability, and opportunities to learn together.
Remember that consistency matters more than quantity.
Five thoughtful minutes spent reading Scripture can become the beginning of a lasting spiritual habit.
And when you miss a day, simply begin again.
Growing in Faith Through God’s Word and Community
Reading the Bible is personal, but spiritual growth does not have to happen alone.
Acts 2:42–47 describes early Christians devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching, fellowship, prayer, and shared life.
They learned together, worshiped together, and encouraged one another.
That same opportunity exists today.
Whether you are opening the Bible for the first time or returning to Scripture after years away, learning alongside other believers can help you grow in understanding and confidence.
At Bethany Church, we want to encourage people at every stage of their faith journey to develop a meaningful relationship with Jesus.
If you are looking for a church in Red Lion, PA, we invite you to discover opportunities for worship, Bible study, and Christian community at Bethany Red Lion PA.
You do not have to become a Bible expert before taking your first step.
Open the Word. Read a little. Reflect on what God is teaching you.
Then return tomorrow.
A deeper relationship with God often begins with one small, faithful habit.