Overcoming Bible Struggles: Part Two

For many Christians, the desire to read the Bible is there—it’s just the where and how that feel complicated. The Bible is big, ancient, and filled with unfamiliar names and cultural references. You sit down, determined to start, but after flipping through pages of laws, genealogies, and unfamiliar stories, discouragement creeps in.

And so, you put it aside. Again.

But what if reading the Bible didn’t have to feel overwhelming? What if there was a way to begin that felt simple, natural, even life-giving? The good news is—there is.

Start Where the Story Comes to Life

Many people assume they need to read the Bible from cover to cover, like a novel. They begin in Genesis with the best intentions but get stuck somewhere in Leviticus. Others try the open-and-point method, only to land in a complex prophetic passage that leaves them more confused than inspired.

But here’s the secret: you don’t have to start at the beginning. Instead, start where the story of Jesus unfolds.

The Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—are the heart of the Bible. They bring us face-to-face with Jesus: His words, His actions, His love, His mission. If you want to encounter God personally, there’s no better place to start.

If you’re looking for something deeply personal and relational, begin with John—a Gospel written to help people truly believe in Jesus. If you want a fast-paced, action-packed account, try Mark. If you love rich storytelling, Luke is full of details and parables. And if you want to see how Jesus fulfilled ancient prophecies, Matthew is a great choice.

You don’t have to understand everything. Just read, listen, and let Jesus introduce Himself to you.

Read Less, Reflect More

One of the biggest misconceptions about Bible reading is that more is better. We assume that spiritual growth comes from covering lots of ground—reading whole chapters, even books, at a time. But deep transformation doesn’t happen through speed; it happens through reflection.

What if, instead of trying to read a whole chapter, you focused on just a few verses? What if you read slowly, letting the words sink in, and asked just one simple question: What is God saying to me through this?

Jesus said, “Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4). We don’t eat an entire feast in one bite—we savour each piece. The Bible is the same. Take small bites. Chew on them. Let them nourish you.

A simple way to do this is by choosing one verse a day to carry with you. Write it down, repeat it throughout the day, and let it shape the way you think, speak, and act.

Pick a Translation That Feels Natural

Sometimes, people struggle with the Bible simply because they’re reading a translation that feels distant or hard to follow. While versions like the KJV have a beautiful, poetic quality, the language can be difficult to grasp.

If you’ve ever read the Bible and felt like you didn’t quite “get it,” consider trying a translation designed for clarity and engagement. The New International Version (NIV) is widely loved for its balance of accuracy and readability. The New Living Translation (NLT) brings a fresh, conversational tone to Scripture, while the Good News Bible is especially accessible for those new to the Bible.

The goal isn’t to make Scripture easier just for the sake of it, but to remove barriers that might be keeping you from fully engaging with God’s Word. The Bible was meant to be understood—not just admired from a distance.

If you’re unsure where to start, you can explore a selection of clear, easy-to-read Bibles here.

Make It Part of Your Everyday Life

Bible reading isn’t meant to be a separate “spiritual activity” squeezed into an already packed schedule. It’s meant to weave into daily life, transforming the way we think, speak, and live.

If sitting down to read feels difficult, try listening instead. Audio Bibles allow you to absorb Scripture while driving, exercising, or even doing household chores. If reading alone feels unmotivating, find a Bible reading plan with a friend or join a small group. If you’re a visual learner, try a study Bible that includes notes, maps, and explanations to bring the text to life.

Most importantly, connect it to something you already do. Read while you drink your morning coffee. Listen to Scripture while you walk. End your day with a Psalm before bed. The more you integrate it into your daily rhythms, the more natural it will feel.

You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

The Bible was never meant to be read in isolation. For thousands of years, God’s people have gathered to read, discuss, and wrestle with Scripture together. If you find it difficult to stay consistent on your own, invite others into the journey.

Join a Bible study. Ask a friend to read a Gospel alongside you. Text someone about what you’re learning. Scripture becomes even more powerful when it’s shared.

Small Steps Lead to Big Change

If Bible reading has felt overwhelming, take heart—it doesn’t have to stay that way. Start small. Pick a Gospel. Read just a few verses. Choose a translation that feels natural. Invite others in.

Most importantly, remember this: God isn’t waiting for you to “master” the Bible. He just wants to meet you in it.

In the next post, we’ll talk about how to fit Scripture into even the busiest of lives—because you don’t have to choose between your schedule and spending time in God’s Word.

And if you’re looking for a Bible that makes it easier to get started, you can explore a selection of accessible, engaging Bibles here. Because sometimes, the right Bible makes all the difference.