Studying the Bible as a Beginner: Where to Start and What to Expect

Lilian
May 29
2 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

When I first opened a Bible with the intention to truly study it — not just skim or flip through randomly — I felt a little lost. There were unfamiliar names, ancient customs, and verses that didn’t immediately make sense. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

Whether you’re returning to your faith, brand new to Christianity, or simply seeking deeper understanding, studying the Bible can feel overwhelming at first. But it doesn’t have to be.

In this guide, I want to gently walk with you through where to start, what to expect, and how to grow in confidence as you explore God’s Word.

Where Should I Start Studying the Bible?

If you’re holding a Bible and wondering, “Do I just open it and start reading from Genesis?” — I get it. But here’s the truth:

You don’t have to read the Bible in order.In fact, many beginners find it more helpful to start in the New Testament.

Recommended starting points for Studying the Bible:

The Gospel of John — A beautiful introduction to Jesus, His love, and His purpose.
Psalms — Honest prayers, praises, and raw emotions. It reminds us that God meets us in our humanity.
Proverbs — Short, wisdom-packed verses for daily life.
Luke or Mark — These gospels are rich with Jesus’ life and teachings, written clearly and compassionately.

What You’ll Encounter (and That’s Okay)

Studying the Bible isn’t always easy — and that’s not a bad thing. It means you’re stretching your spirit and opening your heart.

Here’s what to expect:

Questions. Don’t be afraid to ask them. God welcomes curiosity.
Moments of confusion. Not everything will click right away. That’s normal.
Heart shifts. A single verse can move you to tears, or challenge something you thought you knew.
Deep comfort. You’ll find a peace that doesn’t always make sense — but feels like home.

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” — Psalm 119:105

Helpful Tips for Beginners

Pick a translation that’s easy to read.
The New Living Translation (NLT) or English Standard Version (ESV) are great places to start.
Use a journal.
Write down thoughts, questions, or prayers that come up as you read. It helps you connect personally with the text.
Start small.
You don’t have to read chapters at a time. Even one verse can be enough to chew on for a day.
Pray before you read.
Ask God to open your heart, reveal His truth, and guide your understanding.
Use a devotional or reading plan.
There are so many free resources online to help guide you (and I offer one, too — scroll to the end!).

A Personal Note from Me

Bible study is not about perfection — it’s about relationship. You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to show up.

Every time you open your Bible, you are making space for God to speak into your life.

Final Thought

The Bible is more than a book — it’s a living conversation. It’s God’s voice, still speaking. And if you’re reading this, maybe now is the time to begin your own journey of listening.

Welcome. You’re not late. You’re right on time.