What to Read in the Bible When You’re Just Starting Out: A Simple Beginner’s Guide
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Starting your Bible journey can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re holding a big book filled with ancient wisdom, unfamiliar names, and deep stories. If you’ve ever opened your Bible and thought, “Where do I even begin?” then you’re not alone.
The good news? You don’t have to read the Bible cover to cover to grow your faith. This beginner-friendly guide will show you what to read in the Bible when you’re just starting out, including the best books for new Christians, easy-to-read verses, and practical tips to help you stay on track.
Where Should You Start Reading the Bible?
Here are some of the best beginner books of the Bible: each one is filled with hope, encouragement, and a deeper look at who God is:
✝️ The Gospel of John
John gives a clear and heartfelt picture of Jesus’ life, His miracles, His death, and His resurrection. It's one of the best places to start if you're curious about who Jesus really is.
🎶 Psalms
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or joyful? The book of Psalms is full of honest prayers, raw emotions, and encouragement for every season of life.
💡 Proverbs
This book is full of simple, practical wisdom. It teaches you how to live well, choose wisely, and walk in integrity.
❤️ Romans
Want to go deeper into understanding grace, salvation, and your identity in Christ? Romans is a foundational book packed with truth.
🌍 Genesis
Genesis takes you back to the beginning. It explains how the world began, how sin entered the picture, and how God started His covenant with His people.
Beginner Bible Reading Tips
Here’s what helped me when I was just starting out:
✨ Start small – Don’t feel like you have to read a whole chapter. Even a few verses can feel powerful.
✨ Pick an easy-to-understand Bible version – Try NLT (New Living Translation) or ESV (English Standard Version).
✨ Use a Bible app or reading plan – Apps like YouVersion (my personal fav!) or BibleProject offer free reading plans and helpful videos.
✨ Pray before you read – Ask God to open your heart and speak through His Word.
✨ Journal your thoughts – Write down what stands out to you or how you feel God is speaking to you.
Great Bible Verses for Beginners
Here are some scriptures that helped me feel grounded, comforted, and hopeful:
💛 Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a future and a hope.”
💪 Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
🐑 Psalm 23:1 – “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
🌍 John 3:16 – “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
✨Romans 8:28 – “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”
Final Thoughts: Don’t Overthink It
Reading the Bible doesn’t have to be intimidating or complicated. You don’t need to have all the answers or understand everything right away. The most important thing is showing up with a willing heart.
So if you’re asking, “Where should I start reading the Bible?” begin with John, Psalms, or Proverbs. Let the Word speak to your heart. Let God meet you where you are.
You don’t have to be perfect to come to Him. He’s already waiting. 💛
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