Reading the Bible in a year can sound intimidating but let me set you free right now: it’s not about remembering everything. It’s about being in God’s presence, learning who He is, and seeing His story unfold over time.

You’re not cramming for a test. You’re showing up to a relationship.

Here are 10 tips and strategies that will help you stay grounded, consistent, and encouraged as you read the Bible in a year.

1. Remember the goal: Presence, not pressure

You will read a lot. You will forget some things. That’s okay. The goal is not mastery, it’s abiding. You are sitting with God, listening to His Word, and letting Him shape you over time.

2. We are reading, not studying

This is so important. When you read the Bible in a year, you are getting the big picture, God’s story from Genesis to Revelation. Save word studies, commentaries, and rabbit trails for later. Right now, just read.

3. Choose a realistic plan

I’m using a Monday–Friday plan with weekends off, and it has been a game-changer. Five days of reading, two days of breathing. This makes the pace sustainable and life-giving.

4. Use the weekends intentionally

The weekend is not “behind time.” It’s bonus space. If something stood out during the week, the weekend is a perfect time to do a deeper dive, reread a passage, or reflect more slowly.

5. Have simple tools ready

You don’t need fancy supplies. I use:

• A journal
• A highlighter
• A pen

That’s it. Let your tools support you and not distract you.

6. Track, don’t chase

When something stands out that you want to revisit later, write it down instead of stopping everything. You’re not ignoring it, you’re honoring it by saving it for the right time.

7. Let your journal hold lists

Your journal doesn’t need full paragraphs every day. Try simple running lists like:

• God’s character
• Promises you notice
• Life application
• Questions
• Repeated themes

This keeps reading light but meaningful.

8. Write down the details

I like to note the scripture reference and the Bible translation I’m reading from. Over time, this becomes a beautiful record of your journey through God’s Word.

9. Choose an accessible translation

If this is your first time reading the Bible in a year, do not start with the KJV. I lovingly say this. Choose something readable like ESV, NIV, CSB, or NLT. You want clarity, not confusion.

10. Don’t do it alone

This is a journey and journeys are better together. I want to invite you to join me as we read through the Bible this year. Let’s show up imperfectly, consistently, and expectantly, trusting that God will meet us in His Word.

You don’t have to remember everything.

You just have to show up.

And God will do the rest.

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