How to Start a Daily Bible Reading Habit That Lasts

Many of us want to read the Bible daily but struggle to keep it going. The secret isn’t willpower — it’s building a small, sustainable rhythm. Here are five steps that help.

1. Start small

Begin with just 5–10 minutes or a single chapter. A habit you can keep beats an ambitious plan you abandon by February.

2. Pick a set time and place

Attach your reading to something you already do — morning coffee, lunch, bedtime. A consistent cue is what turns an intention into a habit.

3. Read with a plan

Wandering randomly makes it easy to quit. A simple plan — a Gospel, then Psalms, then Genesis — gives you direction. A journal or reading tracker keeps you motivated.

4. Pray it back

After reading, pause and pray one sentence from the passage back to God. This turns reading into a relationship.

5. Be gentle with yourself

Missed a day? Just begin again. God’s mercies are “new every morning” (Lamentations 3:23). Grace, not guilt, keeps a habit alive.

A prayer journal or devotional can make this far easier — browse our Planners & Journals and Devotionals to find one that fits your season.