Title: A Journey Back to Faith: A Personal Guide to Starting in the Bible
Rediscovering God’s Word
Recently, I had a friend reach out to me—someone who has been searching for meaning and connection with God throughout his life. Over the years, he’s joined me and my brother at retreats, church gatherings, and speaking engagements. But like many, he encountered challenges that turned him off from organized religion. Life had taken its toll, and faith had taken a backseat. Now, however, he’s beginning to come back around—curious, open, and hungry to learn more.
This time, he had a simple yet powerful question: “Al, I want to get into the Bible. I’ve never read it before. What Bible do I get?”
Finding the Right Bible
I was excited to hear this and eager to help guide him. I walked him through some of the versions I’ve come to love over the years. The New King James Version (NKJV) is a personal favorite of mine for its faithful yet readable translation. I also recommended the Amplified Bible, which adds context and clarity through expanded definitions of key words.
But the version I really encouraged him to start with is The Passion Translation—one of the newest versions available. It currently includes the New Testament, Psalms, Proverbs, and Song of Songs. What I appreciate about this translation is its heartfelt, expressive language that makes the message of Scripture feel deeply personal and alive.
Where to Start: The Book of John
For someone new to the Bible, I always recommend starting with the Book of John. It gives a clear, powerful portrait of who Jesus is and why His life matters. I told my friend to read it slowly, and more importantly, to read it with a marker or pencil in hand.
Here’s why: When something stirs your heart or grabs your attention—highlight it. That moment of recognition, that emotional tug, is often the Spirit of God speaking directly to you. It’s personal. It’s intentional. It’s not just words on a page—it’s a conversation between you and your Creator.
Seeking Wisdom in Proverbs
After reading John, I encouraged him to dive into the Book of Proverbs. This is the Bible’s book of wisdom, offering timeless insights into daily living, relationships, decision-making, and integrity. Proverbs is filled with practical guidance that helps you navigate the real world—a world that, let’s be honest, can be incredibly challenging.
For anyone who’s never read the Bible before but wants to start, this is a fantastic next step. It doesn’t just speak about theology or doctrine—it speaks to real life.
A Personal Encounter with God
One thing I can’t emphasize enough: bring something to write with. God will speak to you through Scripture. These aren’t just ordinary books—this is the inspired word of God. When you feel that moment of clarity or conviction as you read, that’s not a coincidence. That’s the Creator of the universe reaching out to you personally.
He knows you. He loves you. He cares about you. And He wants what’s best for you.
Final Thoughts
If you’re someone who’s searching—maybe for the first time, or maybe you’ve been away for a while—know that it’s never too late to start. Open the Bible, start reading, and listen with an open heart.
And from all of us here at The Edge, have a great fishing season. We’ll see you on the water.
Recently, I had a friend of mine who is just getting into the things of God. He had been searching his whole life and was starting to ask questions. He had some problems in his life and was turned off to organized religion, but now he is coming back around and searching. He asked me what Bible he should get if he had never read the Bible before.
I suggested he get the Passion Bible, which is the newest version. I told him the first thing I suggest he do is read the book of John. I said to have a marker or pencil with him when he reads it, and when he reads something that tugs at his heart, to mark it and highlight it. More than likely, it has the spirit of God talking specifically to him.
After he reads the book of John, I suggested he read Proverbs, the book of wisdom. It talks about daily living and wise counsel.
If you are somebody who has never read the Bible before, I can’t over emphasize the importance of having something with you when you read it. The Bible is the inspired word of God, and when you read it and feel that tug in your heart, that’s God talking to you personally. He loves you, he cares about you, and he wants the best for you.
Tips for Reading the Bible
- Get the Passion Bible, the newest version
- Read the book of John
- Have a marker or pencil with you when you read it
- When you read something that tugs at your heart, mark it and highlight it
- Read Proverbs, the book of wisdom
Conclusion
God loves you, he cares about you, and he wants the best for you. Reading the Bible is a great way to get inspired and to get to know God better. So, if you have never read the Bible before, I suggest you get the Passion Bible and start reading the book of John. Have something with you when you read it, and when you read something that tugs at your heart, mark it and highlight it.
