How to Read the Bible and Actually Understand It

Holy Made
Sep 12
4 min read

Updated: Oct 9

I still remember the first time I tried to read the Bible on my own. I opened to a random page, started somewhere in the Old Testament, and within a few minutes I was completely lost. Names I couldn’t pronounce, rules I didn’t understand, and stories that felt far away from my everyday life made me quietly close the book and wonder if I was the only one who didn’t “get it.” If you’ve ever felt that way, you’re not alone. Many people ask the same question: how do you read the Bible and actually understand it?

The good news is that the Bible isn’t meant to intimidate you. It’s meant to guide, encourage, and reveal God’s character. The challenge is knowing where to begin and how to make it part of daily life in a way that feels doable and meaningful. Let’s walk through it step by step.

Why the Bible Feels Intimidating at First

For most people, the Bible feels overwhelming simply because of its size and complexity. Sixty-six books, multiple genres, and ancient cultural contexts can make it feel more like a textbook than a source of encouragement. Add in the pressure of thinking you should already know how to read it, and it’s no wonder so many people give up before they begin.

But here’s the truth: the Bible wasn’t written to confuse you. It was written to draw you closer to God. The reason it sometimes feels distant is because we expect instant clarity without giving ourselves time to grow. Think of it like learning a new language. At first, the words feel foreign, but over time, as you keep listening, practicing, and engaging, it begins to make sense.

Tips for Starting: Choose a Gospel

If you’re wondering where to start, I always recommend beginning with one of the Gospels; Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John. These books tell the story of Jesus’ life, teachings, death, and resurrection. Starting here grounds you in the heart of Christianity and helps you understand the rest of the Bible through the lens of Jesus’ message.

For example, the Gospel of John is especially powerful for beginners because it emphasizes who Jesus is and why He came. Reading a chapter a day can give you a steady rhythm without feeling overwhelming. Once you’ve gone through a Gospel, you’ll find that other parts of Scripture begin to connect more naturally.

Using Devotionals and Bible Apps as Tools

We live in a time where access to resources is easier than ever. If opening a physical Bible feels overwhelming, start with a Bible app. Many apps allow you to set reading plans, highlight verses, and even listen to audio versions while you’re on the go. This flexibility makes it easier to stay consistent, especially with a busy schedule.

Devotionals can also be helpful because they give you context. A short reflection paired with a passage can open your eyes to new insights and keep you motivated. The key is not to let tools replace the Bible itself, but to use them as guides that make your reading more approachable and relevant.

Scripture About the Power of God’s Word

The Bible describes itself as living and active, not just ink on paper. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp to my feet, a light on my path.” That image captures what Scripture is meant to be a light for everyday decisions, struggles, and direction.

Hebrews 4:12 takes it further: “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” In other words, reading the Bible isn’t just about gaining knowledge; it’s about transformation. It shapes the way you think, respond, and live.

Putting It Into Practice

If you’ve struggled with how to read the Bible and understand it, remember that it’s not about perfection but about progress. Start small, choose a Gospel, lean on tools like devotionals or apps for help, and give yourself permission to grow. Over time, the Bible will stop feeling like an intimidating book and start becoming a trusted companion in your everyday life.

The next time you open it, don’t focus on how much you read, but on connecting with the message in front of you. One verse applied to your life can be more powerful than reading chapters you don’t remember.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever closed the Bible feeling lost, you’re in good company. But you don’t have to stay there. Understanding comes with patience, practice, and a willingness to keep showing up. Start with the Gospels, use the tools available to you, and let verses like Psalm 119:105 and Hebrews 4:12 remind you that God’s Word is alive and ready to guide you.

You may be surprised at how quickly it begins to make sense once you slow down and give it room in your daily life. If this post encouraged you, share it with someone else who might be struggling, or leave a comment about what’s helped you on your journey to reading Scripture with confidence.

Holy Made