Start Reading the Bible

We all know that it’s important to read the Bible, but it can be hard to figure out where to start. After all, the Bible has 73 books, which can feel overwhelming! By taking small steps and setting achievable goals, you can dig deeper into God’s Word and build your knowledge and love for the Scriptures.It Doesn’t Have to Be GenesisWhile you can certainly start reading the Bible in Genesis — especially if you’re hoping to read the Bible in chronological order — you don’t have to start at the beginning! Pick a book and slowly work your way through it. Many suggest starting with John, where you read John’s eyewitness account of the life of Jesus. After reading John, you can move on to the other gospels. Psalms is a great place to start if you’re looking for encouragement and hope, while Proverbs offers great wisdom and instruction for our daily lives.ResearchTake time to research the author of the book you chose to read, and research the history and context of the book. Learn about what was going on in the world at the time! When we read the Bible and can understand its original context, we gain a fresh perspective and new insight.Don’t OvercommitIt can be easy to overdo it and overcommit yourself to reading the Bible, but don’t start off with too much; less is more. For example, reading an entire book every day is very different than reading one chapter, or even a few chapters. Don’t get overwhelmed! Set small, achievable goals and work your way up from there.Pick a TimeSchedule a time every day that you’ll spend time in the Bible. Be realistic! If you’re not a morning person, don’t plan to get up 20 minutes early every day; likewise, if you fall asleep early, don’t plan to stay up late. Pick a time when you’re completely awake and can give your full attention. First, PrayPray every day before you open your Bible. Ask God to speak to you and help you understand His word, and that you will deepen your relationship with Him.Take NotesTake an empty notebook and devote it to being used for your Bible time. Take notes, record favorite verses, write down questions, and reflect on what you’ve read and how it connects to what you know. If you aren’t sure where to start, start by asking yourself two questions: What does this teach me about God? What does this teach me about how I should live everyday?At private schools in Polk County, FL, we foster an atmosphere of care and an environment of high expectations and effective discipline. To learn more about what makes us different, contact us at 407-246-4800.