
Where to Start Reading the Bible: A Beginner's Plan
New to the Bible and not sure where to open it? A simple 30-day beginner's reading plan, what to read first, and a free printable PDF.
Sep 11, 2026 · 6 min read
30 readings · ~5 min each
Starting the Bible can feel overwhelming. It’s a big book, and it isn’t obvious where to begin. The 5 Minutes Starter plan hand-picks 30 of the most meaningful and accessible passages from across the whole Bible and arranges them into a gentle four-week journey. Each reading takes about five minutes, short enough to fit any schedule and long enough to leave you with something real to think about. The four weeks are thematic. You start with creation and beginnings: the opening chapters of Genesis and the most beloved Psalms. Week two introduces the words of Jesus through the Sermon on the Mount and key passages from John’s Gospel. Week three explores the New Testament letters on faith, love, and what it means to live differently. The final week gathers passages on hope, courage, and God’s promises. Thirty days in, you will have a real foundation in Scripture and a genuine encounter with texts that have shaped billions of lives. The plan was designed for first-time Bible readers, and longtime readers use it too when they want to revisit the passages that matter most. Every reading was chosen for how approachable it is as much as for its theological weight. If you’ve ever wondered where to start reading the Bible, start here.
Compare all plans and free PDFs by duration and daily reading time
Genesis 1:1-25
Genesis 1:26-2:3
Psalm 23
Psalm 100
Psalm 1
Proverbs 3:1-12
Psalm 139:1-18
It’s specifically designed for beginners. Every passage was chosen for its accessibility and impact, so you don’t need any prior knowledge to engage deeply.
About 5 minutes. The passages are short but carefully selected so each one gives you something meaningful to reflect on.
It includes passages from Genesis, Psalms, Proverbs, the Gospels (Matthew and John), Paul’s letters (Romans, Corinthians, Philippians), and more. You’ll get a taste of both the Old and New Testaments.
Many readers move on to the Gospels Journey or Psalms for 30 Days plan next. Lummi will suggest plans based on what you enjoyed most.
Yes. The passages are appropriate for all ages, and the short reading time makes it easy to do together as a family.
A curated journey through 30 of the most beloved Psalms, covering themes of trust, praise, wisdom, lament, and hope.
30 readings · ~8 min each
Walk through all four Gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, in 60 days.
60 readings · ~10 min each
Read the entire Bible from Genesis to Revelation in 365 daily readings.
365 readings · ~15 min each

New to the Bible and not sure where to open it? A simple 30-day beginner's reading plan, what to read first, and a free printable PDF.
Sep 11, 2026 · 6 min read

Starting a Bible reading habit is easy. Keeping it going is the hard part. Practical, science-backed ways to build a daily routine that lasts.
Mar 22, 2026 · 5 min read