Tips for reading and understanding the Bible

by BGEA   •  

“This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” 

—Joshua 1:8

The Bible is God’s Word to us. It’s His message of love and forgiveness, and shows us how we can have eternal life. It can also answer questions you have as you strive to live a life that pleases Him. That’s why Christians should try to read the Bible daily.

Here are some suggestions for reading the Bible:

  • First, read one chapter from the Gospel of John each day. This will help you understand the basics of the Gospel. (Books of the Bible are typically listed in the front of the Bible.)
  • Second, read Acts, the exciting story of how Jesus Christ’s first disciples told others about how He died and rose again.
  • Third, read the letters that Christ’s apostles wrote to His first followers—all who were new in their faith. These letters are the book of Romans through the book of III John.
  • Fourth, go back and read one of the other three gospels: Matthew, Mark or Luke.

You might not understand everything you read in the Bible, but don’t let that discourage you. The Bible tells us what God is like and offers us wisdom.

As you read the Bible, ask yourself:

  • What does this passage mean?
  • What is God saying to me in this passage?
  • How can I apply this to my own life?

As you read your Bible regularly, you will begin to understand more of it.

Here are 4 ways to get more out of your Bible reading:

  • Read the Psalms, the Old Testament book of worship, to enrich your devotion to God.
  • Read Proverbs to gain wisdom and strengthen your relationship with others.
  • Pray for understanding. The Holy Spirit can help you, and you will begin to see life from God’s perspective.
  • Talk to others about what you’re learning. Try to attend a small group Bible study.

Content taken from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association’s “Knowing Christ” resource.