If you’ve ever opened the Bible, started reading, and thought, I don’t get it, you’re not alone. Many people feel confused or overwhelmed when they first approach Scripture. With its ancient language, historical context, and deeper spiritual meaning, the Bible can seem daunting. But here’s the good news: it can make sense, and with the right tools, you can unlock its life-changing truths.
Why Does the Bible Seem So Hard to Understand?
One reason the Bible feels tough to grasp is that it was written over a span of centuries by different authors, in different cultures, and in languages many of us don’t speak (like Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic). On top of that, it contains various types of writing—historical accounts, poetry, prophecy, and letters—which all require different reading approaches.
Another challenge is that the Bible speaks to spiritual truths. It addresses both the physical world and our spiritual lives, which often leads to symbolism or themes that require some thought and prayer to understand.
But despite its complexity, the Bible is ultimately a message of love, redemption, and guidance from God to us. Once you start learning how to approach it, you’ll find that it becomes not just understandable but deeply personal.
How Do I Start Reading the Bible?
Start Simple:
Begin with one of the Gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John. These books are straightforward and give a clear picture of Jesus’ life, teachings, and purpose. The Book of Psalms and Proverbs are also great places to start for inspiration and wisdom.
Pray Before Reading:
Ask God for wisdom and understanding. The Bible is a spiritual book, and prayer invites the Holy Spirit to help guide you through what you’re reading.
Read in Chunks:
Don’t feel pressured to read large portions at once. Focus on a few verses or a single chapter, and really take your time with it.
Use a Translation You Understand:
There are many Bible translations available. Some are easier to read than others, so find one that makes sense to you. The Christian Standard Bible® (CSB) offers a balance of readability and reliability. It remains faithful to the original biblical text while ensuring clarity, making it easier to understand and engage with the life-changing message of Scripture—and to share that message with others. Our favorite bibles for the men in Iron Phoenix are the He Reads Truth Bibles. Get yours here.
Use a Commentary to Help Explain:
A Bible commentary is like a guide that walks you through the text, explaining its meaning and providing cultural or historical context. One excellent and free resource is Enduring Word, written by David Guzik. This online commentary breaks down each verse in clear, understandable language. Guzik offers helpful insights and applications, making Scripture easier to understand and apply to your life. You can find his commentary here.
What If It Still Doesn’t Make Sense?
Even with tools like commentaries, you might still have questions. That’s okay! Learning to read and understand the Bible is a process, and it’s normal to feel like you’re missing pieces at first. Here are a few more tips to help:
Ask for Help: Talk to someone who has been reading the Bible for a while—a pastor, a mentor, or a friend. They can offer insights and guidance.
Join a Group: Bible study groups are great places to learn from others and ask questions without feeling lost or alone.
Be Patient: Give yourself grace. Understanding the Bible takes time, and each time you read it, something new will stand out.
Conclusion:
If the Bible feels confusing, remember that you don’t have to figure it out all at once. Take small steps, use tools like the Enduring Word commentary, and invite God to guide you. As you keep reading, learning, and growing, you’ll discover the incredible depth and wisdom God has placed in His Word for you. Before long, you’ll see how the Bible truly speaks to your life in powerful ways.
Start today—open the Bible with an open heart, and let God’s Word begin to make sense in ways you never imagined.
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