Why Read the Bible? The Best Book Recommendation you Need

Today I want you to consider the question ‘why read the bible?’ Because love it or not, everyone has heard something about it.

The book that we know as ‘The Bible’ is the most famous and influential book in history, written over thousands of years and first printed in 1455. Translated from its original languages—Chaldee, Hebrew, and Greek—into Latin, English, and countless others, it has become the most-read book in the world.

From the King James Version (KJV) to the New International Version (NIV) to modern renditions like The Passion Translation, the Bible’s reach surpasses that of Shakespeare, Confucius, or Karl Marx.

But why read the bible? What makes the Bible so central to success, fulfilment, and purpose in life?

Why Read the Bible?

The Bible is more than just a book—it’s a living, breathing testimony of God’s heart for humanity and His purpose for your life. Whether you’re seeking guidance, hope, or a deeper connection with God, opening His Word is the most transformative step you can take.

5 Reasons Why You Should Read The Bible

Here are five compelling reasons to make the Bible a daily part of your life:

Discover God’s Voice

In a world full of competing messages, the Bible is the ultimate source of truth and clarity. It reveals God’s character, His promises, and His plans for you. As you read, you’ll hear His voice guiding you, comforting you, and calling you to a deeper relationship with Him.

Build Unshakable Faith

Life’s challenges can leave us feeling unsure and unsteady, but the Bible anchors us in God’s faithfulness. Through stories of triumph, deliverance, and grace, Scripture strengthens our belief that God is always working for our good, even in the toughest seasons.

Renew Your Mind

The Bible has the power to transform your thinking. As Paul reminds us in Romans 12:2, the renewing of your mind through God’s Word allows you to discern His good and perfect will. Reading Scripture helps you replace negative, self-limiting thoughts with truth and hope.

Find Peace and Direction

When life feels overwhelming, the Bible provides the peace and wisdom you need. It answers the deepest questions of the heart, offering practical guidance for decisions, relationships, and purpose.

Grow Spiritually and Relationally

Spending time in God’s Word draws you closer to Him and deepens your connection with others. As you grow in understanding and embody biblical principles, you become a light to those around you, reflecting God’s love in every area of life.

5 Facts You Need To Know About The Bible

As a lifelong student of the Bible, I’ve uncovered some powerful truths that can transform how you approach your faith, your purpose, and your daily life. One of those truths is that without a biblical foundation you have no substantive knowledge for your faith. It is in those writings that God is revealed, and the framework for an incredible life emerges.

1. The Bible Version You Read Matters

Why read the bible in a specific version? In the quest to simplify its language, some Bible versions have unintentionally strayed from the intent of the original text. Concepts have been mistranslated, leading to interpretations that diverge from the truth.

That’s why I recommend starting with trusted versions like the King James Version (or New King James) or the Revised Standard Version. These maintain the integrity of the original writings and provide a more accurate foundation for study and understanding.

2. The Bible Was Written in a Historical and Cultural Context

The Bible is more than a collection of verses—it’s a rich narrative woven through history and culture. It is not linear, nor is it ‘step-by-step’.

Many people pluck out verses to apply to their lives without considering the context, which can lead to a disconnect from the deeper truths it reveals. The Bible begins with the origins of humanity and ends with a vision of eternity. It’s a cohesive revelation of God and His plan for the world and a powerful lens for understanding spiritual truths.

By immersing yourself in the Bible’s context, you’ll uncover insights that build your confidence in God and His purpose for your life.

3. The Bible Challenges You to Think Deeply

The Bible isn’t a step-by-step manual—it’s a living, inspired text.

Themes introduced in Genesis are echoed in the writings of Paul. Prophecies in Daniel are supported by historical and archaeological findings.

It takes time, reflection, and an open heart to perceive the connections and revelations throughout its pages. But as you read, you’ll begin to see how its truths unfold, enriching your understanding of God’s plan. That answers your question of why read the bible? It can change everything for you.

4. The Bible Is the Foundation for Success Principles

Did you know that many of the world’s greatest success teachers drew from biblical principles?

Icons like Jim Rohn, Zig Ziglar, Napoleon Hill, and Norman Vincent Peale built their teachings on wisdom found in the Bible. Books like Think and Grow Rich and The Power of Positive Thinking borrow heavily from concepts in Proverbs, Psalms, and the teachings of Jesus.

The Bible is more than a spiritual guide—it’s a proven blueprint for living a life of purpose, influence, and success.

5. The Bible Grounds You in History and Faith

The Bible is a treasure trove of historical detail. From the Egyptian Empire to the Babylonian rule of Nebuchadnezzar to the Roman occupation during Jesus’s crucifixion, its accounts are studied by academics and historians alike.

But more importantly, it’s a guide for students of faith. As you delve into its pages, you’ll encounter a God who is beyond comprehension, yet deeply personal. It is in the historical timelines and the movements of nations and people, that you gain a more profound understanding of your place in God’s plan.

How to Start Reading the Bible

Do not be intimidated by the Bible. It’s not just for preachers, theologians or religious scholars—it’s for everyone. No matter where you are in life, its timeless truths have something to offer.

Here’s how you can begin your journey:

1. Choose a Version to Read: Start with a version that stays true to the original text, like the KJV or RSV.
2. Read at Your Own Pace:
Begin with Genesis and read through to Revelation. Some days, you might read just a few verses; other days, several chapters. The goal is consistency, not speed.
3. Mark What Stands Out:
Use a pen or highlighter to note verses that resonate with you. This will help you reflect and connect with key themes. (My bible has notes, underlines, highlights and all sorts of markings as I’ve studied it).
4. Ask Questions:
Don’t worry about understanding everything at once. If you’re unsure about something, jot it down and explore it later.
5. Rely on the Holy Spirit:
The Bible promises that the Holy Spirit is our teacher:
“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit… will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you” (John 14:26).

What Happens When You Dive Into God’s Word?

Something amazing happens when you commit to reading the Bible. You start to see God in a whole new way. You’ll make connections between scriptures, understand timelines and themes, and gain a deeper appreciation for His unchanging purpose.

Over time, His Word takes root in your heart, transforming your perspective and anchoring you like a tree planted by streams of water (Psalm 1:3).

A Personal Note on Studying the Bible

I’ve seen this transformation in my own life and in my family. When my son began reading the Bible through the first time, he started in Genesis and took his time. He didn’t stop to analyse everything but asked questions when needed and kept going. It took him over a year but he read it cover to cover.

Now, he sees the Bible not as a collection of stories but as a cohesive revelation of God’s character and plan. He acts out of what he has understood from scriptures and is continually searching deeper to know more.

If you want to get more serious about it and acquire some of the ‘tools’ I use for my bible study then grab my free guide called ‘Great Bible Study Tools’. I walk you through some of the key resources I have found that help me search deeper and understand more.

Why the Bible Is Pivotal to Your Life

The Bible isn’t just a book—it’s a gateway to everything you need to succeed in life. It’s the foundation for faith, the source of wisdom, and the map for navigating your purpose.

When you seek God through His Word, you’ll find clarity, peace, and a vision for your life that surpasses anything you could imagine.

Take the time to read it, ask questions, and let it transform you. You’ll never regret the journey.

From time to time I share Bible Study classes to help equip you to know how to use the tools and explore the thinking yourself. Sign up for the ‘Inbox Inspiration‘ if you would like to join the next one or to stay connected with a community of people that are always growing.