Where to Start Reading the Bible: A Simple Plan for Beginners
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Many people decide to read the Bible and stop after a few days because they started in a difficult place. You do not have to read it front to back on the first try. A simple plan with short, varied readings is easier to keep.
Why the starting point matters
The Bible is a library of books written in different styles: narrative, law, poetry, wisdom and prophecy. Starting with narrative and poetry gives a beginner both a story to follow and words for prayer.
Long lists of laws or genealogies are important, but they are easier to understand once you know the story around them.
Step 1: Begin with Genesis
Genesis tells of creation, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Joseph. Its chapters are mostly stories, which makes it a natural first book.
Read one chapter a day. At that pace, Genesis takes about seven weeks, which is a realistic first goal.
Step 2: Add a Psalm each day
Alongside Genesis, read one psalm. The Psalms are prayers and songs, and many are short. Psalm 1, 23, 46 and 121 are good first choices.
Pairing a story with a prayer keeps reading from feeling like homework.
Step 3: Read Proverbs for practical wisdom
Proverbs has 31 chapters, so many readers read one chapter per day of the month. Its short sayings on work, speech, money and friendship are easy to apply.
After Proverbs, continue with Exodus to follow the story that Genesis begins.
Tips to keep going
Keep sessions short: ten to fifteen minutes is enough. Read at the same time each day and keep the Bible in the same place.
If you miss a day, simply continue where you stopped. Write down one verse or one question from each reading so you can see your progress.
Choose a readable format
Comfortable reading matters. Choose a translation you understand, a clear page and a calm place. Some readers prefer print; others read on a phone or tablet.
On BiblesClick you can read Genesis, Exodus, Psalms, Proverbs and other selected books in English, Spanish, Italian or Portuguese, displayed in an alphabet you draw yourself. Seeing your own handwriting can make a daily reading habit feel personal.