Bible Study: Where Do I Start?

All of us, whether we were churched or unchurched, have some kind of relationship with the Bible. No matter if you’re a first timer, or an old timer, it’s possible to find JOY through the Bible. You are invited to join us on this journey as we learn how to study and understand the Bible together.

Here are a few tips to get started on your Bible study journey. We know you’re going to love what you uncover in God’s Word!

Begin with Prayer

Prayer is a powerful tool when approaching the Bible. Inviting the Lord to meet you in His Word and reveal Himself on every page transforms your Bible study from a mere intellectual pursuit into a personal encounter. Seek for an understanding heart and a renewed mind as you delve into God’s Word.

Be Patient and Present

Remember, learning the Bible is a lifelong process. Be patient and present as you ask the Lord to guide your study. What normally takes a lifetime to learn won’t be uncovered in one day. Give yourself time to learn. Don’t be hard on yourself as you step into a relationship with God’s Word and grow to hunger and thirst for it more each day!

Set Aside Dedicated Time

Your schedule can get busy. Determine a time of day and duration that suits you best. It could be as short as 10 minutes or extend to longer sessions. The more time you invest in the Bible the more your desire to study it will grow! Remember, you can understand the Bible, but this won’t happen without the Holy Spirit’s guidance or any effort on your part.

Choose Your Preferred Bible Version(s)

Reading the Bible in a language you understand enhances your study experience. Familiarize yourself with different Bible versions like the Christian Standard Bible (CSB), English Standard Version (ESV), New International Version (NIV), and New Living Translation (NLT). You can even access multiple versions as you study. For free access to multiple Bible versions, download the YouVersion app. Learn more about Bible translations in our How to Choose a Bible Version article.

Utilize a Study Bible

A study Bible offers valuable insights into historical context and key details that may go unnoticed when reading a Bible passage on its own. Find a study Bible that includes information on the author, audience, culture, and history at the beginning of each book, study notes beneath the verses, and indexes to look up common words or people are found in the back. Discover more about study Bibles in our in-depth Using a Study Bible article.

Leverage A Bible Study Guide

The CHARA Bible Study Guide is a valuable resource designed to help you understand the Bible on your own or group Bible setting! Follow the simple C-H-A-R-A acronym to unlock the meaning of God’s Word:

Context - Understand the text surrounding the passage

History - Understand the history and culture of the ancient world

Author - Understand the author’s purpose and their style of writing

Research - Dig deeper through word and translation study

Apply - Identify how you can apply this passage to your life

For the full CHARA Bible Study Guide, click here.

Cultivate an Intellectual Curiosity - Ask Questions

As you read the Bible, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Cultivating an intellectual curiosity is the best way to learn and grow in your understanding of God’s Word. Seek answers that will deepen your understanding as you dive into God’s Word.

Download a beautifully designed printable version of the CHARA Bible Study Guide today!

Get Printable Booklet

Visit our website’s Resource section for more helpful tips to kickstart your Bible study journey. Get ready to embark on an inspiring expedition through God’s Word, uncovering new understanding, and experiencing the joy that comes with knowing Him deeply.