As the new year approaches, many Christians feel a renewed desire to grow closer to God through His Word. There's something powerful about a fresh start—a clean calendar, new goals, and the opportunity to establish habits that will shape the coming months. What better resolution could there be than committing to read through the Bible?
Whether you've never read the entire Bible or you're looking to engage with Scripture in a new way, starting a Bible reading plan is one of the most transformative decisions you can make. In this guide, we'll explore why reading the Bible matters, the different types of reading plans available, and practical tips to help you stay consistent throughout the year.
Why Read Through the Bible?
Before diving into specific plans, it's worth reflecting on why reading the entire Bible matters. Many Christians are familiar with favorite passages and popular stories, but there's profound value in engaging with all of Scripture—from Genesis to Revelation.
Understanding the Complete Story
The Bible tells one unified story of God's redemption of humanity. When we only read isolated passages, we can miss how each book contributes to this grand narrative. Reading through the entire Bible helps us see how the Old Testament points to Christ, how the Gospels reveal Him, and how the rest of the New Testament shows us how to live in light of His work.
Encountering the Full Counsel of God
Every part of Scripture is "God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness" (2 Timothy 3:16). When we limit ourselves to familiar passages, we miss wisdom that God wants to share with us. The genealogies, the minor prophets, the historical books—each contains treasures waiting to be discovered.
Building Biblical Literacy
Regular, systematic Bible reading builds a foundation of biblical knowledge that enriches every aspect of our faith. You'll recognize references in sermons, understand theological concepts more deeply, and be better equipped to share your faith with others.
Popular Bible Reading Plans
There's no single "right" way to read through the Bible. Different plans suit different personalities, schedules, and spiritual goals. Here are some of the most popular approaches:
1. Read the Bible in a Year (Chronological)
This plan arranges Scripture in the order events occurred, rather than the order books appear in the Bible. You'll read about David's life while also reading the Psalms he wrote during those events. This approach brings historical context alive and helps you understand when and why each book was written.
Best for: History lovers and those who want to understand the biblical timeline.
Daily commitment: About 15-20 minutes per day.
2. Read the Bible in a Year (Canonical)
The straightforward approach: start at Genesis 1 and read straight through to Revelation 22. This plan follows the traditional book order and typically requires reading 3-4 chapters daily.
Best for: First-time Bible readers and those who prefer simplicity.
Daily commitment: About 15 minutes per day.
3. Old and New Testament Together
This plan has you reading from both Testaments each day—typically a portion of the Old Testament, a portion of the New Testament, and often a Psalm or Proverb. This variety keeps your reading fresh and helps you see connections between the Testaments.
Best for: Those who want daily variety and cross-Testament connections.
Daily commitment: About 20-25 minutes per day.
4. Thematic or Topical Plans
Rather than reading straight through, these plans organize readings around themes like prayer, faith, wisdom, or the character of God. You might spend a month on passages about hope, then move to passages about obedience.
Best for: Those who want focused study on specific topics.
Daily commitment: Varies based on the plan.
5. The 5x5x5 Plan
Read 5 minutes a day, 5 days a week, covering 5 different types of reading: Gospels, Pentateuch (first five books), History, Poetry/Wisdom, and Epistles. This approach offers variety while being manageable for busy schedules.
Best for: Busy people who want a sustainable, low-pressure approach.
Daily commitment: Just 5 minutes.
6. Read the Bible in Two Years
There's no rule that says you must finish in 12 months. A two-year plan cuts the daily reading in half, making it more manageable and leaving more time for reflection and meditation on each passage.
Best for: Those who want a slower, more reflective pace.
Daily commitment: About 7-10 minutes per day.
Tips for Success
Starting a Bible reading plan is easy; finishing is the challenge. Research suggests that most people who begin a read-through-the-Bible plan abandon it by February. Here's how to be among those who persevere:
Set a Consistent Time
Habit research shows that behaviors tied to specific times and locations are more likely to stick. Choose a time that works with your schedule—early morning, lunch break, or before bed—and protect it. Your Bible reading should be an appointment you don't cancel.
Start Small If Needed
If you're not currently reading the Bible regularly, jumping into an intensive plan can lead to burnout. Consider starting with a lighter plan and building up. Five minutes of consistent reading beats 30 minutes of sporadic reading.
Use Multiple Formats
Take advantage of audio Bibles for commutes or workouts, apps for quick reading during breaks, and a physical Bible for focused study time. Different formats for different contexts help you stay on track.
Don't Let Missed Days Derail You
You will miss days. Life happens. The key is not letting one missed day become a missed week, which becomes a missed month. If you fall behind, simply pick up where you left off—or skip ahead to the current day's reading. Grace applies to Bible reading too.
Find an Accountability Partner
Share your goal with a friend, family member, or small group. Regular check-ins and the ability to discuss what you're reading will keep you motivated and deepen your understanding.
"I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you." - Psalm 119:11
Beyond Just Reading: Engaging with Scripture
Reading through the Bible is valuable, but truly engaging with God's Word takes it further. Here are ways to move from simply reading to deeply encountering Scripture:
Meditate on What You Read
After your daily reading, take a few minutes to sit quietly with one verse or phrase that stood out. Turn it over in your mind. Ask God what He wants you to learn from it. Biblical meditation isn't emptying your mind—it's filling it with God's truth.
Journal Your Insights
Keep a simple journal where you record observations, questions, and applications from your reading. Writing helps cement understanding and creates a record of your spiritual journey that you can look back on.
Pray the Scriptures
Use what you read as the basis for your prayers. If you read about God's faithfulness, thank Him for His faithfulness in your life. If you encounter a command, ask God for help to obey it. This transforms reading into conversation with God.
Discuss with Others
Share interesting discoveries or challenging passages with fellow believers. Iron sharpens iron, and discussing Scripture often reveals insights you would have missed on your own.
What to Expect on the Journey
As you begin your Bible reading journey, here's what you might experience:
- Excitement at the start: January enthusiasm is real. Enjoy it while preparing for when it fades.
- Challenging sections: Leviticus, Numbers, and some prophetic books can feel dense. Push through—gems await.
- Unexpected discoveries: You'll find treasures in places you least expect, seeing familiar stories with new eyes.
- Spiritual growth: Over time, you'll notice Scripture shaping your thoughts, words, and actions.
- A deeper love for God: The more you know God through His Word, the more you'll love Him.
Starting Your Journey
The new year offers a perfect opportunity to commit to knowing God more deeply through His Word. Choose a plan that fits your life, set realistic expectations, and remember that this journey is about relationship, not achievement. God doesn't grade your reading speed—He delights in your desire to know Him.
As you turn the first pages of Genesis in the new year, know that you're joining millions of believers throughout history who have found life, wisdom, comfort, and transformation in the pages of Scripture. The same God who spoke to Abraham, Moses, David, and Paul wants to speak to you through these same words.
May this new year be one of encountering God in fresh ways as you journey through His Word. The treasure you'll find is worth every minute invested.