Best Way To Study The Bible

Ever wondered what’s the best way to study your Bible? Here are a few practical tips from my own life that have helped me grow in understanding and applying God’s Word.

Get a Bible Translation You Understand

When God wants to speak into your life, you need to be able to clearly understand what He’s saying. That starts with using a translation you can follow.

Some great options include:

• New American Standard Bible (NASB) – My personal favorite.

• New International Version (NIV) – Clear and widely used.

• King James Version (KJV) – A classic, though the old English can be challenging.

• New Living Translation (NLT) – Very readable.

• English Standard Version (ESV) – A strong, literal translation.

Pick one that works for you and stick with it.

Pick a Consistent Time to Read

You can’t study the Bible if you’re not reading it. Even a small daily habit makes a big difference. For me, it’s every morning before breakfast—I decided I won’t eat until I’ve read my Bible. Find a time that works for you and commit to it.

Read in Manageable Chunks

Don’t overwhelm yourself. Instead of trying to read a whole chapter at once, start with just three or four verses.

A great place to begin is the Gospel of John—the fourth book in the New Testament. As you read, ask yourself:

• What is God saying here?

• How does this apply to my life today?

Apply What You Learn

The Bible isn’t just for information—it’s for transformation. Romans 15:4 says that everything written in Scripture was meant to teach and encourage us so we could have lasting hope. Read with the goal of living out what you’ve learned.

Consider Formal Bible Study

While daily personal reading is vital, it can also be valuable to take a class or learn from a trusted teacher or scholar who can help you dig deeper into the nuances of Scripture.

The bottom line: Nothing beats that simple daily habit of reading a portion of God’s Word, asking what it means, and applying it to your life.