Tips to Read the Bible in One Year

According to the American Bible Society, 87% of American households own a Bible. The average home has three Bibles, but only 11% have read the entire Bible. Thirty percent of Americans have read no more than several passages or stories.

The Bible is not just a book—it’s the book. As someone said, “If you don’t get into your Bible, your enemy will get into your business.”

This year can be your year of the Bible. I’ve practiced this habit since my teenage years, and it’s been life-changing. Here’s why you should read the Bible in one year and how to do it.

Reasons to Read the Entire Bible

• The Bible Is Our Daily Manna – The Bible is bread for daily use, not cake for special occasions. In the Old Testament, God gave Israel manna daily in the wilderness, and like manna, God’s word must be gathered daily. It sustains us as we journey toward our Promised Land—heaven.

• Reading the Bible Daily Builds Consistency and a Habit of Daily Intake of God’s Word – When you read God’s word, you’re breathing in what God breathed out (2 Timothy 3:16-17). This habit builds spiritual discipline and consistency.

• It Anchors Your Life Around God’s Truth – Reading the Bible daily fills your mind with truth and pushes out lies. If you read Scripture daily, no matter how you feel, God’s word will renew your mind and break the enemy’s lies.

• You’ll Become Familiar With God’s Voice – Complaining about a silent God with a closed Bible is like complaining about no texts when your phone is off. God’s word prepares you to hear His voice, and His voice will never contradict Scripture.

• God’s Word Will Keep You From Sin – Research shows that people who engage with the Bible four or more times a week live differently, 228% more likely to share their faith, 407% more likely to memorize Scripture, and 30% less likely to struggle with loneliness.

The Plan To Follow

1. Commit to a Plan

Take some time to plan our how you’d like to read the Bible. For instance, I typically reading from a little from the Old Testament, the New Testament, Psalms, and Proverbs. However, you can do it chronologically if you prefer. Just ensure you make a plan and stick to it if your goal is to make it through the entire bible.

2. Set a Specific Time and Space

Build a routine. Often due to travel and unforseen circumstances, this can change. However, establishing a normal routine for your day to day life will make reading the Bible easier. Sometimes I enjoy going to church and reading the word and praying. other times, I choose to go downstairs and starting my day with water, sitting in my usual spot, and read my physical Bible with a notebook so I can highlight and write whatever I sense the Lord speaking that morning. Whatever your routine looks like, choose a place and time where you can be consistent.

3. Don’t Read the Bible Just to Check Off a Box

The goal is for God to check your heart, cleanse your heart, change you in the process. The goal isn’t so you can take pride in the fact that you finish reading the Bible. The goal is so you get fed, so you get empowered. Don’t get so focused on your reading plan every day that you forget the purpose of it. The point is to know Jesus, not for you to complete a goal.

4. Use SOAP Method: Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer

Using this method to help guide you on what to do as you read can also be very helpful.

• Scripture: Read the passage.
• Observation: Reflect on its meaning.
• Application: Apply it to your life.
• Prayer: Pray based on what you read.

5. Read With Others

Use tools like the YouVersion Bible app with friends. The YouVersion Bible app allows you to invite other people, and each day you can comment on what you read in the YouVersion app. It’s a great way of staying motivated because you have a sense of accountability.

6. Stay Consistent but Don’t Be Legalistic

If you miss a day, don’t feel guilty—feel hungry. Consistency is key, but it’s about encountering God, not checking off boxes. God desires to spend time with you. Don’t fall into the legalistic trap. If you miss a day, pray for hunger for God’s word instead of falling into guilt.

I pray this is your best year and that you fall in love with Jesus through His word more than you ever have.

Read: Beginner’s Guide to the Bible