Where to Start When You Want to Read the Entire Bible

How to Study the Bible - Bible Study Made Simple

In this episode of the Summer Q&A Series, Nicole tackles one of the most common (and courageous!) questions: “I’ve never read the Bible cover to cover—where should I start?”

She breaks down practical, grace-filled strategies for reading the Bible in a way that actually works, offering insights for both new and seasoned believers. From choosing the right translation to dealing with confusing or difficult passages, Nicole empowers listeners to start reading with confidence and purpose. Whether you’ve felt overwhelmed, confused, or discouraged by Scripture in the past, this episode will give you a clear and doable way forward.

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🧠 Main Takeaways

• You’re Not Alone: Many faithful Christians have never read the whole Bible—and it’s never too late to start.

• Don’t Start at Genesis (at least not right away): Many fall off around Leviticus. Instead, begin with:

  • Luke – A detailed and compassionate account of Jesus’s life

  • Acts – The story of the early church

  • Romans – A powerful explanation of the gospel

  • Then continue through the New Testament before tackling the Old Testament

• Use a Study Bible: Even a basic study Bible can provide helpful context, intros, and notes for difficult passages.

• Mark Your Progress: Write in your Bible, underline verses, and make notes—it can become a spiritual journal and legacy.

• Don’t Get Stuck in the Weeds: Your first time reading is a flyover—aim for big-picture understanding, not perfection.

• Psalms & Proverbs: Consider mixing in chapters of Psalms or Proverbs for encouragement and wisdom along the way.

• Read With a Plan (or Not): Try chronological Bibles, one-year plans, or even 90-day “boot camps”—but always choose what fits you.

• Give Yourself Grace: Falling behind is normal. Focus on steady progress, not perfect performance.

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📜 Bible Verse References

• Luke 1:1–4 – Introduction to the Gospel account

• Acts 1:1–3 – Continuation of Luke’s writing, the story of the early church

• Romans 1–16 – Understanding theology and Christian living

• Psalm 139:13 – “You knit me together in my mother’s womb…”

Want More? Start Here:

• Subscribe to How to Study the Bible to follow the full Summer Q&A Series.

• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it helps others find the show.

• Visit nicoleunice.com for Bible study tools and Nicole’s books.

• Download a reading plan or grab a study Bible to get started today.

• Share this episode with someone beginning their Bible reading journey.

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Links & Resources

• NicoleUnice.com – Bible study resources, books, and teaching

• BibleStudyTools.com – Read and search Scripture online

• Recommended Bible Translation for Beginners: New Living Translation (NLT)

• Nicole’s Book: Brave Enough (includes Scripture promises for encouragement)

• Explore past episodes for deep dives into Romans, James, and more.

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