Tips for Daily Bible Reading + FREE Bible Reading Tracker

In our busy lives, forming a daily Bible-reading habit can be challenging. But with intention and creativity, regular time in Scripture can become an established spiritual discipline.  

Pastors, teachers, parents, and anyone seeking to strengthen their faith can try these tips for a daily Bible reading plan. The suggestions will help individuals and families stay engaged with God’s Word so they can learn more about Jesus and grow closer to him. 

Why You Need a Daily Bible Reading Plan 

God’s Word isn’t just a book we read once and put back on the shelf to gather dust. The Bible is a living, breathing text that continually speaks into our lives. Regular Bible study, guided by a daily reading plan, helps Christians of all ages maintain a consistent walk with God. A daily reading habit combined with prayer anchors our days in wisdom reminds us of God’s promises, and equips us to face challenges with faith. 

When Scripture becomes part of a daily routine, hearts and minds stay aligned with God’s will. This spiritual discipline also sets a powerful example, especially for children and unchurched friends. 

Consider these best practices for consistent Bible reading:  

1. Choose a simple plan. 

Staying faithful with Scripture reading is easier when you select a plan and Bible translation that fit your daily life. If you’re just starting, avoid a demanding reading schedule. Otherwise, you’ll quickly feel overwhelmed and be tempted to quit. Consider reading just a chapter a day or following a plan that focuses on key themes or one Bible book. Gradually, you can add more material to a Bible plan. 

2. Use a Bible reading tracker. 

Because accountability is key to building a new habit, a Bible reading chart comes in handy. Many people enjoy visually seeing their progress as they check off each day’s reading. Free printable Bible reading charts are available online. (See below for a free Bible reading resource from ChurchArt.) 

3. Try a Bible study or daily Bible reading guide. 

A “map” keeps readers organized and focused. It might break down complex passages and scriptural themes, making it easier to understand and apply the content. Reading guides also offer a broader view of how different parts of the Bible connect and unfold over time. Pro Tip: For quick reference, tape a Scripture guide or map inside your Bible! 

4. Set a consistent time for personal devotions. 

Making Bible reading a daily habit requires consistency. Find a time in each day when you can be quiet and still before God. For some people, morning devotions work best, helping them begin the day with God’s Word. Others prefer the evening, reflecting on Scripture before bed. Set an alarm or create a daily reminder to develop the habit of regular Bible reading. 

5. Add prayer to your study. 

A daily Bible reading plan is most effective when paired with an ongoing prayer life. Before reading, ask God to open your heart and mind to his Word. After your study, reflect on what you read. Ask the Holy Spirit how the Bible passage applies to your life. Then commit your day or concerns into God’s hands. 

6. Join or form a Bible study group. 

Bible reading isn’t meant to be only a solo endeavor. God gave his Word to the community of believers. If you’re struggling to maintain a daily reading habit, seek out company. A Bible study group provides accountability, encouragement, and insight from others. Group discussions can also reveal new perspectives and deepen your understanding of Scripture. 

If in-person groups aren’t an option, online Bible study communities and apps help form connections. Platforms such as YouVersion offer plans for individuals or groups, and you can invite friends to join virtually. 

7. Vary your Bible-reading approach. 

To avoid getting into a rut, mix up your Bible reading experience. Listen to an audio Bible during your commute. Download a Bible reading app that best fits your needs and interests. Or start a Bible study group with fellow Christians who want to make reading God’s Word a daily habit.  

Other helpful resources: 

• Topical studies let you focus on a theme, such as forgiveness or evangelism. Or explore a book of the Bible recap. 

• Character studies are ideal for learning from the lives of biblical figures. Choose men and women — including lesser-known people — from the Old Testament or New Testament. 

• A chronological Bible reading plan takes you through the Bible in the order that events occurred. 

With different Bible study methods, learning stays fresh and exciting! 

8. Reflect and journal on Scripture. 

Bible study leads to more life application through reflection and journaling. After reading, write down thoughts, questions, and insights that stand out. Jotting responses to Scripture lets you track your spiritual growth. Plus, you’ll have reminders of God’s faithfulness when you look back over time. 

Bible Plan Resources 

If you have a favorite study Bible, start with that. To add variety to your daily Bible study, check out these resources: 

• YouVersion Bible App — This free app offers hundreds of Bible reading plans, daily devotionals, and group study options. It can send daily reminders and track your progress. 

• Bible Gateway — Find a variety of Bible study tools at this website. Plans cover the entire Bible in a year or specific themes. 

• The Bible Project — Access videos, podcasts, and New Testament and Old Testament reading plans. Travel through Scripture while focusing on biblical themes and theology. 

• Blue Letter Bible — On this free app, access reading plans, commentaries, and study tools for digging deeper into the Word. 

• ChurchArt — Our online art library features colorful plans for daily Bible reading, including kid-friendly chronological Bible reading plan downloads. 

Help Children Develop a Consistent Bible Reading Habit 

For parents and teachers, instilling a love for God’s Word in children is a joyful responsibility. Use these tips to help kids build a regular Bible reading habit. 

• Set an example. Children imitate what they see. If their parents and other family members read the Bible daily, kids are more likely to adopt the habit themselves. So make your own devotion time visible to kids. Then invite them to join you in God’s presence during study and prayer. 

• Use age-appropriate materials. Many Bible storybooks, devotionals, and apps are designed specifically for children or teens. These resources offer age-appropriate explanations, making the Bible more accessible for young readers. Interactive apps like Superbook and the Bible App for Kids provide visual and interactive elements to keep attention. 

• Hold a family Bible study. Designate time for the whole family to read Scripture together. Choose a verse, chapter, or Bible story and take turns reading. Keep discussions flowing by asking questions and giving everyone time to share.  

• Use a Bible reading chart. Just like adults, children benefit from seeing their progress. A colorful Bible reading chart with stickers motivates and excites young learners. 

• Pray together. Encourage children to pray after reading a Bible passage. Teach them how to talk to God about what they’ve learned and how to apply to life. Establishing prayer routines goes hand in hand with regular Bible reading. 

Download a Free Bible Reading Tracker 

To get started with a Scripture reading plan, download this free “Bible Reading Tracker” from our sister company, Communication Resources. The colorful reading guide lists all the books of the Bible, with a box for each chapter. Simply check the corresponding box when you complete a chapter, and you’ll work your way through both the Old and New Testaments. Helpful labels and illustrations add to the reading experience.  

Click to Download the Free Bible Reading Tracker

Regular Bible reading is one of the most valuable spiritual disciplines. Creative tools like a Bible reading tracker, chart, or guide boosts accountability, solidifying this important daily habit. By adding Scripture to our routine, we invite God to powerfully transform us each day.