How to Read the Bible: Developing Life-Giving Habits
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In today’s fast-paced world, fitting Bible reading into our routines can feel like another “to-do” and it should be anything but, right?! So, let’s redefine this time as a life-giving habit rather than a task on a checklist. There’s no right or wrong way to read the Bible; the key is finding what works for you and draws you closer to God.
I've been a Christian most of my life, and developing a habit of daily, deeper Bible study is something I’ve longed for but have always struggled to make part of my routine. While I often hear people suggest waking up earlier, that’s just not appealing or achievable for those of us who don’t do mornings! Podcasts seemed easier to work into my day, fitting in wherever I happened to be. However, while they’re convenient, they don’t provide the kind of deeper, lasting connection with Christ that I truly desire. Because, let’s face it, I’m usually listening to the podcast while I’m multitasking and my focus is pulled at all angles!
For those of us who aren’t morning people, perhaps the key is exploring times that naturally fit with our personal rhythms and allowing that time to become sacred in its own way, while also making it consistent. Instead of feeling like it has to happen at dawn, finding a daily time—whether in the afternoon, evening, or even as a lunch break reset—can help make it both sustainable and intentional. What’s important is that it’s about creating a habit that’s sustainable, meaningful, and tailored to your unique lifestyle.
Why Make It a Habit?
The ultimate purpose of reading the Bible is to deepen your relationship with God and build a solid foundation in His Word. Whether you’re new to Bible reading or a seasoned reader, we all need to engage in a way that keeps us connected. Creating a habit that’s SMART—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound—helps make your Bible reading consistent and purposeful, even during life’s busiest seasons. If it’s a habit, you’ll remain more consistent, as you’re consistent, your faith will grow, as your faith grows, your prayer life increases, as your prayer life increases, you are able to minister to others and walk closer with the Father.
(Can you start to see it now?)
The HOW: 5 Practical Ways to Start Reading the Bible
I’m all about practical steps! Don’t just tell me what I should or shouldn’t do—I probably already know! What I need is the how. So, here are a few suggestions to help you get started. I encourage you to try these consistently for more than a week; you won’t be giving yourself a fair chance without giving it a little time.
Start Small and Specific with a Time and Place
Don’t feel pressured to read for hours each day. Begin with a small, specific goal, like reading for 5-10 minutes each morning or during a lunch break. Choose a consistent place where you feel relaxed and undistracted—like a cozy chair, your car before work, or while enjoying a cup of coffee.
SMART Tip: Set a daily alarm or reminder on your phone to signal that it’s “Bible time.” This small cue can help you stay on track with your habit.
Choose a Reading Plan that Suits Your Pace and Interests
There are countless reading plans available, from chronological plans to topic-based ones. Consider choosing one that resonates with where you are in life right now—whether you’re looking for peace, wisdom, or simply a refresher on the Gospels. This can help keep you engaged and make each session feel relevant.
SMART Tip: Download a Bible app like YouVersion, which has various plans and a daily “streak” tracker. Choose a plan you can realistically commit to, even if it’s only a few verses each day. Unveiled Living even has a few FREE mini studies available on our website and new App with daily goal trackers, and we are adding more as fast as we can write them!
Reflect and Journal as You Go
As you read, take time to write down a verse or phrase that stands out. Ask yourself: What does this teach me about God? About myself? How can I apply this today? Journaling can deepen your understanding and create a personal connection to the text. Unveiled Living has a journal available for this type of reflection in our HopeStyle store! Check it out!
SMART Tip: Keep a small notebook or a notes app handy to jot down thoughts or reflections, aiming to capture at least one insight each time. This can make your Bible time feel more intentional. (Unveiled Living’s journal will fit in a medium/large size purse!!)
Incorporate Devotionals for Guided Insights
Devotionals can provide structured insights and applications that bring Bible passages to life. Consider choosing a devotional that aligns with the season you’re in or read alongside a friend to make it interactive. Having a friend read with you will also help keep each of you accountable to your daily goal!
SMART Tip: Pair a short devotional with your reading to provide focus and context. Apps like “First5” or “She Reads Truth” offer quick devotionals that fit into even the busiest schedules.
Use Audio to Listen on the Go
If reading feels challenging to fit in, consider listening to the Bible. Audio versions are great for busy days—while driving, cooking, or taking a walk. This approach lets you soak in God’s Word even when you can’t sit down with a physical Bible. Be mindful to focus on what is being spoken. Really soak it in.
SMART Tip: Set a goal to listen to at least one chapter each day or choose a specific book to listen through. Apps like Dwell or the Bible app provide a range of voice options and background music to make listening enjoyable and immersive.
Remember: Progress Over Perfection
Building a new habit doesn’t happen overnight. It’s okay if you miss a day or find it challenging to stay consistent. The goal is to find an approach that feels life-giving and sustainable for you. Try one (or a combination) of these methods and be patient as you discover what works best for you.
Bible reading is ultimately about connecting with God, and that happens differently for everyone. Pray and ask God to guide and help you put this practice into place. He designed you, so He would know, right? Remember, He’s delighted by your efforts, no matter how big or small. Let’s keep moving forward, step by step, toward a deeper relationship with Him.
Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.” Psalm 1:1-3 NLT
Growing closer together,
Janice Conyers
P.S. To take your walk with God to the next level, jump into our free 5 day mini-study devotional: Deeply Rooted to learn more about how to develop a daily routine growing your walk with God.
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