I don’t wish to boast about anything, other than the grace and mercy of Christ over my life. But my first bible is now in tatters with scribbles on the sides, underlined verses, highlighted verses, and wrinkled pages. I still have it, although I don’t read that particular Bible nowadays. I now have several versions of the Bible on an iPad and iPhone. Yes, I use the YouVersion app extensively. Although I still prefer a hard copy Bible, I tend to use the digital versions a lot more because my device is always with me, wherever I go. I also have hard copy versions of the ERV (easy to read version), NLT (New Living Translation), the Amplified Bible, and the traditional NKJV (New King James Version). I have read all of these versions and the NIV (New International Version), but my personal favorite is the NLT. I find it easy to read, and simple to understand.

Bible Translations

There are so many bible translations today and it is easy to get confused as to which one to use. Not all bible translations are the same. Some are word-for-word (literal translations), while others are thought-for-thought (easier to read translations). Without going into details about any translation, for the purpose of Bible Study, it is best to use a translation that YOU understand clearly. The main idea is for you to understand God. Therefore, pick a translation that you can easily understand. When you go to the store, pick a few versions, open it up and try to read a few passages. You will quickly get an idea of a version that you resonate with.

Two beginner friendly versions I would recommend are: The NLT (New Living Translation, and the NASB (New American Standard Bible). Both these versions are simple and modern English, and easy to understand for beginners.

For more in-depth Bible Study: I would recommend the NKJV (New King James Version) and the Amplified version. In fact, studying these two together will give you much more insight into the original context and meaning.

Having two or three translations side-by-side helps uncover deeper meaning when studying key passages.

Study Bibles

A good Study Bible comes packed with notes, cross-references, introductions, maps, and commentary. It’s like having a Bible teacher by your side.

There are several versions of Study Bibles available too. You can pick one that you not only understand easily, but also enjoy reading and journaling. I love study bibles because you get to spend so much more time on particular passages in the Bible. You may read a particular passage, and then read the cross references without having to go to another resource, check out the commentaries and write notes all in one place. Yes, study bibles are a bit more expensive, but they are worth it.

My top recommendation would be the Life Application Study Bible (NLT).

Bible Apps

In todays age of technology with smart phones and tablets, there are many powerful apps you can use to study the Bible on the go. Many of them are completely free. As I mentioned before, I use the YouVersion app on my phone and tablet. Whether I am traveling on a plane, or waiting at the bus stop or train station, or when I am on a coffee break, God’s Word is never far from me. It’s right in my pocket. What’s more!! Most of these apps come with hundreds of Bible Reading Plans. 5 day plans, 30 day plans, 1 year plans, etc. You can either choose the Bible Reading plans or choose a topical plan such as dealing with depression, or overcoming fear, or Godly relationships. The options are endless. And most of these plans are short and very impactful for a quick read during your daily schedule.

Recommended Bible Apps:

• YouVersion – Offers multiple versions, reading plans, audio Bible
• Blue Letter Bible – Great for Greek/Hebrew word studies
• Logos Bible App – Deep theological tools (even the free version is helpful)
• Bible Gateway – Easy access to commentaries and dictionaries

Bible Concordances

A concordance helps you look up any word in the Bible and find where it appears. It’s especially helpful for doing word studies. A concordance provides you with an alphabetical listing of words and their corresponding scripture references. A concordance can help you understand how a same word might be used in different ways in different parts of the Bible. It helps you understand the context of the passage and thereby helps you understand the deeper meaning of God’s Word.

Best for Beginners:

• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance (print or online)
• BibleHub’s online concordance tools

Bible Commentaries

Commentaries are written by trusted Bible teachers and scholars. They explain verses and give context to help you understand what’s going on. Commentaries give you a deeper understanding of scripture through historical context, and the type of language used in those days of past. Using commentaries will help you identify potential misunderstandings and discover connections across God’s Word. Often times, passionate believers take every Word of scripture literally and try to apply it to their lives. Understanding the historical context will help you identify such occasions and give you more insight into why it was said the way it was said to the specific target audience.

Good starting points:

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary (classic, available online)
• Warren Wiersbe’s “Be” Series
• EnduringWord.com (clear, free commentary online)

Online Resources as Bible Study Tools

Here are some reliable websites that make Bible study easier and more insightful:

• BibleHub.com – Tools for study, cross-references, lexicon
• GotQuestions.org – Biblical answers to tough questions
• BibleProject.com – Engaging videos on books of the Bible and themes
• OpenBible.info – Helps you search verses by topic or need

Journals and Notebooks

Writing down what God shows you during study time helps it sink in. Use a regular notebook or a guided journal like the SOAP method. You can also use the Notes app on your tablet or phone. The important point is to take notes when studying the bible. It helps you remember what you study and you can always refer back to your notes later on. It will remind you of what God spoke to you when you were studying that particular passage. You can even create a prayer journal or gratitude notebook to go alongside your Bible reading.

Pens, Highlighters, and Tabs

Color-coding your Bible can bring clarity to repeated themes, promises, or commands. Just make sure to use Bible-safe pens that won’t bleed through the pages.

All these tools are helpful, but remember: the greatest teacher is the Holy Spirit. Start small. Pick one or two tools that work for you. As you grow in confidence, you can add more to your Bible study toolbox.

You don’t need everything all at once—just a heart that says, “Speak, Lord, your servant is listening.”

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