This Bible Study Checklist is designed to help beginners confidently step into God's Word. Whether you're reading the Bible for the first time or trying to build a deeper habit, this guide breaks it down into simple, encouraging steps—from preparing your heart to applying what you’ve learned.

It includes practical prompts, reflection tips, and tools to help you understand Scripture and grow your relationship with Jesus—at your own pace, one step at a time.

Perfect for personal study, small groups, or anyone wanting to make Bible reading feel less overwhelming and more alive.

The Beginner's Bible Study Checklist

Prepare Your Heart

Find a quiet space: Choose a distraction free space where you can focus.
Pray for guidance: Ask the Holy Spirit to help you read and give you understanding. (James 1:5)
Have study tools ready: Grab your Bible, a notebook, and a pen. You can also use a Bible app or study tools if helpful.

Choose What to Read

Choose what to read: The gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke & John) introduce Jesus and His teachings. You may find it helpful to start there, or you can ask the Holy Spirit what you should read today.
Pick a Bible reading plan: This will help you to stay on track or organized.
Focus on one passage at a time: Read a chapter, a few verses, or even a single verse slowly and thoughtfully.

Read With Intention

Read slowly & carefully: Don’t rush! Let each word sink in. If you feel confused by something specifically, write it down and what confuses you about it.
Reading out loud: This is optional but helps me to engage on a deeper level.
Reread it, especially the ones you wrote: Sometimes new insights are brought to mind after digesting the words again.

Understand What You're Reading

Ask questions: Who wrote this passage? Who was it written for? What is the main message?
Look up cross-references: different versions have different wordings, that is why it is so important to be led by the Holy Spirit.
Use a simple commentary: A beginner friendly commentary can help with the difficult passages you struggle to understand more in depth.

Take Notes & Reflect

Write down key verses: Write down the key verses that stand out to you.
Summarize in your own words: What is the passage saying?
Write down what God is teaching you: How does this passage speak to your heart?

Apply What You've Learned

Think about one way to apply it: How can this truth change your thoughts, actions, and attitude today?
Memorize a key verse: Choose one verse to keep inside your heart throughout the day. (Psalm 23:6)
Pray about it: Ask God to help you live out His Word.

Stay Consistent & Keep Growing

Make Bible study a habit: 5-10 minutes a day makes a huge difference! I recommend first thing in the morning & last thing at night.
Join a Bible study group: Learning with others helps you grow. They even offer study groups online.
Trust the process: The more you read, the more you understand. God reveals more over time!