The Best 30-Day Bible Reading Plan for Beginners [With Free Printable PDF]
Are you looking to deepen your faith and grow closer to God through daily Bible readings? Look no further! We’ve compiled the best 30-day Bible reading plan for beginners to guide you on a journey of spiritual growth. Plus, we’re including a free printable version for your convenience.
Why 30 days? It’s the perfect sweet spot—short enough to be manageable but long enough to build a routine that can transform your spiritual life.
Ready to get started? Let’s go! 🙏
Why Should You Follow a Reading Plan?
This 30-day plan is designed for beginners who may feel overwhelmed by diving into the entire Bible all at once. With a well-designed daily reading plan, you break down the process into manageable chunks and track your progress as you go.
Our Bible reading plan provides structure and accountability and makes it easier to stick to your daily readings. It touches on a wide variety of different topics and can be tailored as needed to fit your schedule and spiritual goals.
Daily scripture readings allow us to renew our minds, receive fresh revelation and guidance from God’s word, and draw closer to Him. And just as physical exercise strengthens our bodies, reading the bible every single day strengthens our faith.
To make your journey even smoother, we recommend using a beginner-friendly Bible translation like the New Living Translation (NLT), New International Version (NIV), or New King James Version (NKJV). You can easily access these translations through Bible Gateway, an easy-to-use online resource that offers a variety of translations and other tools to help you understand and apply God’s Word.
The 30-Day Bible Reading Plan for Beginners
Now let’s get into the reason you’re here—the 30-day Bible reading plan for beginners! This plan is divided into five sections, with each section focusing on a different topic. Feel free to adapt and adjust as needed, but try your best to stick to the suggested reading schedule for maximum benefit.
Days 1-7: Foundations of Faith
This first week is all about laying the groundwork for your faith. Each day’s readings will introduce you to key passages of the Bible from both the Old and New Testaments.
Day 1: Gospel of John 1-2 (Introduction to Jesus)
Begin with the Gospel of John, one of the most beloved New Testament books. These chapters introduce Jesus, the Word made flesh, and set the stage for understanding His ministry. This is a great starting point for new believers who are encountering the Good News for the first time.
Day 2: Genesis 1-2 (Creation)
Next, dive into the Old Testament with the book of Genesis. These opening chapters of the Bible reveal the story of creation and provide insight into God’s power and purpose for humanity. It’s an essential reading to understand the whole Bible and the foundation of our world.
Day 3: Psalms 1-2 (Worship and Prayer)
Shift gears to Psalms, a book filled with heartfelt prayers and songs. Psalms 1 and 2 focus on the blessings of following God’s ways and acknowledging His sovereignty. This reading encourages a spirit of worship and reverence in your daily life.
Day 4: Ephesians 1 (Understanding Grace)
Return to the New Testament with Paul’s letter to the Ephesians. Chapter 1 emphasizes God’s grace and the spiritual blessings we have in Christ. This is a powerful reminder of God’s love and the deep spiritual truths that guide our faith.
Day 5: Proverbs 1 (Wisdom for Life)On Day 5, gain practical wisdom with the book of Proverbs. The first chapter introduces the purpose of Proverbs: to impart wisdom, discipline, and understanding. This reading provides guidance for everyday life and helps you develop a heart of discernment.
Day 6: Isaiah 1 (Introduction to the Prophets)
Explore the Old Testament prophets with Isaiah, beginning with chapter 1. This book is filled with prophecies and messages from God to His people. Isaiah’s opening chapter calls for repentance and righteousness and sets the tone for understanding the role of prophets in the Bible.
Day 7: Reflection and Prayer Day
Take this day to reflect on the week’s readings and spend time in prayer. Consider how these passages have impacted you and reflect on what you’ve learned about God’s Word so far. Reflection days are important and help to ensure you are absorbing key verses and allowing the Holy Spirit to work in your heart.
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Days 8-14: The Life of Jesus
This week focuses on the life and teachings of Jesus, moving through key events and lessons from His ministry. These New Testament readings will deepen your understanding of who Jesus is and why His message is central to the Christian faith.
Day 8: Matthew 1-2 (The Birth of Jesus)
Start with the Gospel of Matthew, where you’ll read about the miraculous birth of Jesus and the events surrounding it. This Bible passage sets the foundation for understanding Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies.
Day 9: John 3-4 (Teachings of Jesus)
Dive back into the Gospel of John to explore some of Jesus’ most profound teachings, including His conversation with Nicodemus about being born again and His encounter with the Samaritan woman at the well.
Day 10: Mark 1-2 (Miracles of Jesus)
Read the first two chapters of Mark to witness the early miracles of Jesus, showcasing His divine authority and compassion. These passages are a great fit for new Christians who want to see the power of Jesus in action.
Day 11: Luke 1-2 (The Early Years of Jesus)
The Gospel of Luke provides a detailed account of the early years of Jesus, including His birth, presentation at the temple, and His visit to Jerusalem as a child. This reading helps paint a fuller picture of Jesus’ life from the beginning.
Day 12: Matthew 5 (Sermon on the Mount)
Return to Matthew to read the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus delivers some of His most essential teachings, including the Beatitudes. This chapter is foundational for understanding Christian ethics and the heart of Jesus’ message.
Day 13: John 5-6 (The Bread of Life)
In these Bible verses, Jesus performs miracles and teaches about being the Bread of Life, offering eternal life to those who believe in Him. This passage encourages you to reflect on the spiritual nourishment that Jesus provides.
Day 14: Reflection and Prayer Day
Take a moment to reflect on this week’s New Testament passages. Consider how Jesus’ life and teachings have impacted your understanding of faith. Use this day to pray, review key verses, and let the Holy Spirit deepen your connection with Christ.
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Days 15-21: Teachings and Letters
This week, you’ll explore some of the most impactful teachings and letters from the New Testament. These passages will help you understand the core beliefs of the Christian faith and how to apply them to your daily life.
Day 15: Romans 1-2 (The Gospel Explained)
Start with Romans, where Paul lays out the foundation of the Gospel. These chapters explain the righteousness of God and the importance of faith, offering a deep dive into the message of salvation.
Day 16: Galatians 5 (Freedom in Christ)
In Galatians 5, Paul speaks about the freedom we have in Christ and the fruit of the Spirit. This passage is a great fit for anyone seeking to understand how to live a life led by the Holy Spirit, free from the bondage of the law.
Day 17: Philippians 2 (The Mind of Christ)
Philippians 2 encourages us to adopt the same mindset as Christ—one of humility and service. This chapter is essential for understanding the character of Jesus and how we can reflect His love in our everyday actions.
Day 18: 1 Corinthians 13 (The Chapter on Love)
Known as the “Love Chapter,” 1 Corinthians 13 defines what true love looks like. This passage is often highlighted in weddings, but its message is universal, reminding us of the importance of love in all we do.
Day 19: Colossians 3 (Living as New Creations)
Colossians 3 teaches us how to live as new creations in Christ, focusing on putting off the old self and embracing the new. This reading provides practical guidance for living a life that honors God.
Day 20: James 1 (Faith in Action)
James 1 emphasizes the importance of not just hearing the Word but also putting it into practice. This chapter is a great resource for understanding how faith should be lived out on a daily basis.
Day 21: Reflection and Prayer Day
Take today to reflect on the teachings and letters you’ve read this week. Consider how these lessons can be applied to your life, and spend time in prayer asking God to help you live out these truths. Use this day to review your reading progress and prepare your heart for the next week’s readings.
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Days 22-28: Wisdom and Prophecy
These next 7 days you’ll delve into the wisdom literature and prophetic books of the Bible, exploring themes of trust, timing, and God’s plans for His people. These readings provide both comfort and guidance and offer timeless truths that apply to our lives today.
Day 22: Psalms 23 (The Lord is My Shepherd)
Psalms 23 is one of the most beloved passages in the Bible because it offers reassurance that God is our shepherd, guiding and protecting us through every season of life. This psalm is a source of comfort and a reminder of God’s constant care.
Day 23: Proverbs 3 (Trust in the Lord)
Proverbs 3 encourages us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding. This passage provides wisdom for making decisions and living a life that reflects God’s guidance.
Day 24: Ecclesiastes 3 (A Time for Everything)
Ecclesiastes 3 teaches us that there is a time for everything under heaven. This chapter helps us understand the rhythms of life and the importance of recognizing God’s timing in all things.
Day 25: Isaiah 53 (The Suffering Servant)
Isaiah 53 is a powerful prophecy about the suffering servant, who is ultimately revealed as Jesus Christ. This passage foretells the sacrifice of Jesus and the redemption He brings, and offers a deep reflection on the cost of our salvation.
Day 26: Jeremiah 29 (Plans for Good)
In Jeremiah 29, God reassures His people that He has plans for their good, to give them hope and a future. This verse is often quoted for its promise of God’s faithfulness, even in difficult times.
Day 27: Daniel 6 (Daniel in the Lion’s Den)
Daniel 6 recounts the story of Daniel in the lion’s den, a famous and powerful testimony of faith and God’s protection. This reading inspires courage and trust in God, even when facing life’s fiercest challenges.
Day 28: Reflection and Prayer Day
As in previous weeks, use this day as an opportunity to reflect on the wisdom and prophecy you’ve read about during each day’s reading. Consider how these passages speak to your current circumstances, and spend time in prayer, asking God to deepen your understanding and trust in His Word.
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Day 29-30: The Great Commission and Final Reflections
And finally, as you approach the last two days of your journey, you’ll focus on the Great Commission and the glorious vision of the New Heaven and New Earth. These readings will inspire you to live out your faith and look forward to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises.
Day 29: Matthew 28 (The Great Commission)
In Matthew 28, Jesus gives His disciples the Great Commission, instructing them to go and make disciples of all nations. This passage challenges us to share the Good News and live out our faith with purpose and conviction.
Day 30: Revelation 21-22 (The New Heaven and New Earth)
Conclude your 30-day journey with a glimpse of the future as described in Revelation 21-22. These chapters paint a picture of the New Heaven and New Earth, where God will dwell with His people forever. This powerful vision of eternity offers hope and assurance that God’s plan is one of ultimate redemption and restoration.
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Tips for Success
Embarking on a 30-day Bible reading plan is a rewarding journey, but like any spiritual discipline, it requires commitment and thoughtful planning. Here are some tips to help you stay on track and get the most out of the next 30 days:
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Have a Consistent Routine
The best way to make this plan a habit is to set aside a specific time each day to complete your reading. Find a quiet place where you can focus without distractions. Whether it’s first thing in the morning or before bed, the key is to be consistent. Establishing this routine will make it easier to maintain your progress, especially if you’re following a chronological order.
Use a Study Bible
To deepen your understanding of the passages, consider using a study Bible and/or companion books. These resources provide valuable context, explanations, and insights that can help you grasp the meaning behind different parts of the Bible. A study Bible is especially useful if you’re encountering certain books of the Bible for the first time.
Journal and Reflect
Taking time to journal your thoughts, questions, and reflections after each day’s reading is a simple way to internalize what you’ve learned. This practice not only helps you remember key Bible verses but also allows you to see your spiritual growth over time. Plus, reviewing your journal entries can offer fresh insights as you progress through this chronological plan.
Hold Yourself Accountable
Staying motivated over the course of a year or even just 30 days can be challenging, so it’s a good idea to find an accountability partner or join a community. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or an online group, having someone to share your journey with can provide the encouragement and support you need. Engaging with others on social media can also be a great way to stay connected and inspired.
Free Printable 30-Day Bible Reading Plan
Would you like a free printable PDF version of the 30-Day Bible Reading Plan for Beginners? Well, we’ve made it super easy for you to grab below. Simply download it, print it out, and keep it handy as you go through your daily readings.
To access the printable, just enter your email address below and you’ll receive it directly in your inbox. As a bonus, you’ll get a Prayer for Guidance and Understanding and additional study resources to help you stay on track and make the most of your journey. Sign up today and take the first step towards a deeper understanding and appreciation of God’s word!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is This Plan Suitable for Someone New to Christianity?
Absolutely! This plan is designed for anyone who wants to start reading the Bible, whether they are new to Christianity or have been a believer for many years. The readings provide a good overview of the Bible’s key themes and teachings, making it a great starting point for beginners.
Can I Start Anytime or Do I Have to Wait Until the 1st of the Month?
You can start this plan at any time! While many people choose to begin a new reading plan at the start of a month or even as a New Year’s resolution, there’s really no need to wait. This plan is designed to be flexible and can be started at any time. You can even go at your own pace and take breaks as needed.
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How Long Should I Spend on Each Day’s Reading?
The amount of time you spend on each day’s reading may vary depending on your reading speed and level of comprehension. On average, it can take around 20-30 minutes to read through a whole chapter or two in the Bible. However, if you prefer to take your time and reflect on each verse, it may take longer.
What If I Miss a Day or Fall Behind?
Life happens and it’s completely normal to miss a day or fall behind on your readings. Don’t worry, just pick up where you left off and keep moving forward. The important thing is to stay consistent and not give up.
How Should I Pray Before and After Reading?
Prayer is a personal and individual experience, so there’s no one right way to pray before or after reading. Some people like to start with a short prayer asking for guidance and understanding while others prefer to end with a reflection and thanksgiving.
Closing Reflections
As you embark on this 30-day Bible reading plan for Beginners, know that you’re taking an important step in deepening your faith. Each day’s reading will bring you closer to understanding how to apply the Bible’s teachings to your life.
When you finish this plan, consider continuing your journey by exploring a year-long Bible reading plan, or by diving deeper into a specific book of the Bible that resonates with you. ✝️
Until next time,
xoxo
