If you’ve recently started following Jesus—or if you’re just searching and wondering what it means to know God—this guide is for you. You don’t need to have all the answers. You don’t need to feel spiritual. You don’t need to clean yourself up first. You just need to start. And one of the best places to start is by reading the Bible.
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This isn’t a Bible study or a theology book. It’s a simple, honest guide to help you pick up a Bible and start a relationship with the God who wrote it. I’m not a pastor or scholar—I’m someone who met Jesus because other people helped me get started. Now I want to help you.
Getting started
What is the bible?
The Bible isn’t one book—it’s a collection of 66 books written over centuries. Some parts are history. Others are poetry, wisdom, or letters. The Bible tells the story of real people living in real places, all pointing to one thing: God’s plan to rescue and restore the world through Jesus.
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The Bible is inspired by God. Some passages are commands to obey, some are stories to learn from, and some are parables to help us understand spiritual truths. It’s not about checking boxes—it’s about meeting the God who loves you.
​Not all Bibles read the same. The message is the same, but the wording can be easier or harder depending on the translation. Here are a few trusted ones to start with:
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• NLT (New Living Translation)
• NIV (New International Version)
• ESV (English Standard Version)
• The Message (Paraphrase)
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You can get a Bible at a bookstore, online, or download one for free through apps like YouVersion or Bible Gateway. I personally like a physical Bible—it helps me stay focused and grounded.
How to choose a bible
How to read my bible
Don’t start at the beginning. Start with Jesus. Begin with the Gospel of Mark or John. Mark is short and fast-paced. John focuses more on who Jesus is. Once you’ve read one of those, try Psalms (for prayer and emotion) or Proverbs (for daily wisdom).
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Read the Bible...
1. To learn who God is
2. To discover who Jesus is
3. To understand the story we're part of
4. To hear God's voice
5. To grow in your new faith
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I remind myself that these are real stories. Some are historical. Some are parables. Some apply directly to me. Others reveal who God is or how people have experienced Him. Approach the Bible with curiosity, humility, and a desire to know the Author—not just the stories.
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What if I Have Questions
Ask them. You’re not expected to know it all. Write them down and bring them to a trusted friend, leader, or pastor. Use study resources. Look it up in a Bible app. But most importantly—stay curious and don’t give up.
Helpful resources
Free Apps:
• YouVersion Bible App – reading plans, audio Bibles, devotions
• Bible Gateway – read and compare different translations
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Beginner Reading Plans (Search for These):
• 'Life of Jesus'
• 'New to Faith'
• 'Bible in 5 Days'
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Need Help?
Reach out to a local church or Christian friend. If you’re not sure who to ask, you can email me through my website. You’re not alone.
When I gave my life to Jesus, I had people around me who helped me grow. They encouraged me to read, to pray, to show up, and to ask questions. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. And now, I want to be that kind of help to someone else.
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Galatians 6:9 says, 'Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest, if we do not give up.' That includes you. Keep going. Keep growing. God is with you.