Reading the Bible and spending time with God is one of the most important things we can do as believers. Returning to the Word regularly helps deepen our relationship with Him and strengthens our faith as we learn more about our Creator.
Today I want to share a few simple ways to approach the Bible. The Good Book can feel a little intimidating—there are a lot of translations and versions to look at, and of course, the content itself can be a little confusing. It’s filled with parables, references, and nuances that we won’t all understand the first time we read it.
And that’s okay! The more time you spend with the Word, the more comfortable and familiar it will become. With that being said, let’s talk about how we can approach our Bible.
Come As You Are
To begin, I must state the simple fact: the most important way we engage in Scripture is by making time, sitting down, and simply reading. When Jesus said come to Him, He meant it. Whether it’s your first time picking up the Bible or your 1,000th time, whenever we go to Him, He is ready to receive us. (Matthew 11:28, John 6:37)
Try A Different Translation
Sometimes we just don’t understand what the Bible is saying—and that’s completely normal. Whenever I’m stuck, the first thing I do is check out a different translation.
I typically read the English Standard Version (ESV) or the Christian Standard Bible (CSB), both of which are considered to be “word-for-word” translations. Whenever I need a fresh perspective, I use BibleGateway or the YouVersion Bible App to switch between versions.
Below are a few translations I may turn to when needed:
- New International Version (NIV) – To me, this is one of the easiest translations to read. As opposed to ESV and CSB, it is a “thought-for-thought” translation. It is written in modern, contemporary English and is very easy to understand.
- The Message – This version is a paraphrase, not a translation, of the Bible and should not be used as a main Bible. However, this text can help you approach a verse or passage with new insight, making an otherwise confusing passage more accessible.
Use A Commentary or Study Bible
Sometimes, no matter how much we read and reread a section, we still feel like we’re missing something. Thankfully, there are many wonderful resources, study Bibles, and commentaries out there to choose from! I highly suggest you research and find one that you like. They provide historical background, cross-references, and simple explanations that enhance your understanding.
Two I personally use are linked below (Bonus: they both have great apps!):
Just remember: while commentaries are wonderful, they are not THE WORD OF GOD. They cannot substitute what is in the Bible. We use them as tools to enhance our understanding, not as the primary source.
And don’t be afraid to do your own digging. Google is a powerful tool! Use credible sources, of course, but trust where the Holy Spirit leads you through your research. Sometimes, what you find is exactly what God wants to show you.
Interact With The Text
The last thing I would recommend is to write down your thoughts as you read. Does this verse remind you of something in your life—a situation, a person, yourself? Do you connect it with something else in the Bible? Does it remind you of another story, verse, or passage? Whatever comes to mind, I recommend writing it down.
These notes help you track what’s on your heart and how the Holy Spirit may be speaking to you. Sometimes, that small nudge to pray or reflect is exactly the clarity, peace, or guidance you need.
Remember, these “journal entries” don’t have to be aesthetic or lengthy. Sometimes it’s just a person’s name or a situation scribbled in the margin of your Bible.
Spending time in the Word helps you recognize how the Holy Spirit speaks. Remember, Jesus is the Word made flesh (John 1:14), so when we spend time in Scripture, we’re spending time with Him.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, reading your Bible isn’t about having all the right tools, the perfect journal, or deep theological knowledge—it’s about drawing near to God. Every time you open the Word, you’re stepping into His presence, allowing truth to take root, and giving the Holy Spirit space to speak. So give yourself grace as you grow. Keep showing up, keep asking questions, and keep pursuing Him.
He promises to meet you there—every time.
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