January carries a quiet but powerful invitation. As one year closes and another begins, life slows just enough for reflection, prayer, and renewed focus on God’s Word. If you’ve been wondering how to start reading the Bible, January 2026 is an ideal time to begin without pressure.
This guide is for Bible reading beginners, those starting over, and anyone unsure where to begin. You don’t need perfect discipline or deep knowledge—just a willing heart and a few consistent minutes each day.
Many believers feel overwhelmed by the Bible’s size or lose momentum after missing a few days. Learning how to start reading the Bible is less about willpower and more about having a simple, grace-filled approach.
How to Start Reading the Bible
To start reading the Bible, choose a beginner-friendly book like John or Psalms, set aside a daily time, pray for understanding, and follow a simple reading plan. Start small, stay consistent, and focus on building a daily habit rather than finishing quickly.
For first-time readers, the most important step is removing unnecessary pressure. The Bible is not meant to be rushed or mastered in a few weeks. It’s meant to be returned to again and again. Starting with small, intentional steps allows understanding and confidence to grow naturally.
Prayer matters just as much as reading. Even a short prayer before opening Scripture helps shift your mindset from studying a book to listening to God. Over time, those quiet moments of reading begin to shape how you think, pray, and live.
Also Read: Faith Without Works Is Dead Explained Clearly From The Bible
Why January Is the Best Time to Start Reading the Bible
January represents more than a new month—it symbolizes renewal, reflection, and hope. Spiritually, it aligns beautifully with biblical themes of restoration and new beginnings.
- January represents a fresh start with God — A reminder that God’s mercies are new every morning
- New Year goals align with spiritual growth — Habits form more easily when life feels reset
- Bible verses about new beginnings encourage consistency — Scripture repeatedly reminds us that God specializes in making things new 🌱
Starting Bible reading in January helps anchor the entire year in truth. Instead of Scripture competing with your goals, it becomes the foundation beneath them—guiding decisions, shaping priorities, and steadying your faith as the year unfolds.
Where to Start in the Bible
Beginners should start with the Gospel of John, Psalms, or Proverbs because these books clearly introduce Jesus, offer daily encouragement, and provide practical Christian wisdom.
The Bible can feel intimidating because it contains many genres—history, poetry, prophecy, letters, and teaching. Starting in the right place helps new readers avoid confusion and discouragement. These books are accessible, meaningful, and spiritually rich without requiring extensive background knowledge.
Best Bible Books for Beginners
- Gospel of John – A clear and personal introduction to Jesus’ life, purpose, and love
- Psalms – Emotional, honest prayers that connect Scripture to real life
- Proverbs – Short wisdom statements that apply directly to daily choices
- Genesis – Foundational stories that explain God’s relationship with humanity
Many beginners find it helpful to rotate between these books. For example, reading one chapter from John and one Psalm each day keeps Scripture both instructional and devotional.
Best Bible Reading Plans
The best Bible reading plan for beginners is one that is simple, flexible, and encourages daily consistency without overwhelming the reader.
A good reading plan removes uncertainty. Instead of asking, What should I read today?, you can focus fully on engaging with the passage itself. Plans are tools—not rules—and they should serve your spiritual growth, not control it.
Common beginner-friendly options include:
- 30-day Bible reading plan – Ideal for building confidence and momentum
- Bible-in-a-year plan – Structured and comprehensive for committed readers
- Chronological Bible reading plan – Helpful for understanding biblical history
- Psalms and Proverbs reading plan – Encouraging and easy to maintain
Choose a plan that fits your current season of life. A simple plan you actually follow is far more effective than an ambitious plan you abandon.
How Long Should You Read the Bible Each Day?
Most beginners should start with 10–15 minutes a day. Even a few verses read consistently can lead to spiritual growth over time.
Reading the Bible is not about quantity—it is about attentiveness. Ten focused minutes of reading, reflection, and prayer can be far more impactful than an hour of distracted scrolling through pages.
As your comfort grows, your reading time may naturally expand. On some days, you may linger over a single verse. On others, you may read several chapters. Both are valuable when approached with intention and openness.
Also Read: Bible Verses for a Fresh Start in 2026 When You Feel Spiritually Tired
Daily Bible Reading Habit
Building a Bible-reading habit is less about motivation and more about rhythm. Habits thrive when they’re attached to existing routines and supported by grace.
Simple Steps That Actually Work
- Choose a quiet time and place – Consistency creates familiarity and focus
- Read at the same time each day – Habits grow through repetition
- Pray before reading – Invite God to guide your understanding
- Use a Bible reading plan – Reduce friction and mental effort
- Track progress without guilt – Missed days are pauses, not failures
Whether you read early in the morning or late at night, what matters is creating space where Scripture can speak into your everyday life.
Prayer Before Bible Reading
“Lord, open my heart and mind as I read Your Word. Help me understand what You want to teach me today and guide me in truth. May Your Word shape my faith and daily life. Amen.”
This prayer centres your heart before reading. It acknowledges that understanding Scripture is not just intellectual—it is spiritual. Over time, praying before reading helps Scripture move from information to transformation.
Bible Reading Mistakes
Many people stop reading the Bible not because they lack faith, but because they place unrealistic expectations on themselves early on.
Avoid these common mistakes:
- Trying to read too much too fast – This often leads to burnout
- Starting in difficult books first – Some sections require context
- Skipping prayer and reflection – Understanding grows through relationship
- Giving up after missing a day – Grace always invites you back
Bible reading is a journey, not a performance. God’s patience far exceeds our inconsistency.
Also Read: The Biblical Meaning of 3 Will Change How You See the Trinity
Stay Consistent in Bible Reading
Christians stay consistent with Bible reading by focusing on progress, not perfection. Building a routine, using a reading plan, and trusting God’s grace helps believers stay committed throughout the year.
Consistency grows when Scripture becomes part of daily life rather than a separate spiritual task. Reading even briefly during busy seasons keeps your heart anchored in truth and reminds you that God is present in every moment.
A helpful mindset for 2026:
👉 Faithfulness means returning, not never struggling.
Start Small and Let God Lead
Starting the Bible in January 2026 is not about finishing quickly—it is about growing daily with God. Small, faithful steps in Scripture—taken consistently—can quietly reshape your thinking, strengthen your faith, and transform the year ahead.
Begin where you are. Open the Word today. Let God lead the rest.
People Also Ask
How do beginners start reading the Bible?
Beginners start reading the Bible by choosing an easy book like John or Psalms, setting aside a short daily time, praying for understanding, and following a simple reading plan.
What book of the Bible should I read first?
The Gospel of John is the best book to read first because it clearly explains who Jesus is and why He matters. Psalms and Proverbs are also great starting points because they offer daily encouragement, prayer, and practical wisdom.
How long should I read the Bible each day?
Most beginners should read the Bible for 10 to 15 minutes a day. Even a few verses read consistently can help you grow spiritually over time and build a strong daily Bible reading habit.
What is the best Bible reading plan for beginners?
The best Bible reading plan for beginners is simple and flexible. A 30-day plan, Psalms and Proverbs plan, or a Bible-in-a-year plan helps new readers stay consistent without feeling pressured or overwhelmed.
Should I pray before reading the Bible?
Yes, praying before reading the Bible helps prepare your heart and mind. A short prayer asking God for understanding allows Scripture to speak more clearly and become meaningful in your daily life.
