Recently, I started the A Year in the Bible study from The Daily Grace Co. I had been searching for something in-depth that would guide me through Scripture every day. More than anything, I wanted to go deeper in my faith. I wanted to know God’s heart better, understand His Word more clearly, and grow closer to Him.
My Struggle with Reading the Bible
If I’m being honest, reading the Bible has often felt like a chore.
I love fiction. Give me a good novel, and I’ll happily disappear into its pages for hours. Non-fiction? That’s another story. In fact, if you hand me almost any book and tell me I have to read it, there’s a good chance I’ll resist. I’ve always been a little stubborn that way.
Thankfully, God knows me better than I know myself.
He knows I’m a process-driven person who is constantly searching for the “perfect system.” It probably didn’t surprise Him at all when I spent months looking for the right Bible study program before finally settling on one.
But eventually, I realized something needed to change.
A Prayer God Answered
I began praying a simple prayer:
“Lord, give me a love for Your Word that I’ve never had before. Help me enjoy learning about You.”
God has answered that prayer in ways I never expected.
For the first time in many years, I genuinely look forward to my Bible study time. While colorful pens and pretty highlighters certainly make the process more enjoyable, they can’t compare to the joy that comes from learning more about my Heavenly Father.
God’s Word reminds us:
“Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path.” — Psalm 119:105 (NLT)
The more time I spend in Scripture, the more I realize how true that is.
My Top Five Bible Study Tools
If you’re looking to build a consistent Bible study habit, these are the tools that have helped me the most.
1. A Bible You Can Actually Study
Two years ago, my sister gave me a Life Application Study Bible in the New Living Translation, and it completely changed my Bible-reading experience.
I know some Christians strongly prefer the King James Version or New King James Version. That’s perfectly fine. But for me, understanding what I’m reading matters most.
I needed a translation written in language I could easily understand so I could focus on learning rather than decoding.
The Life Application Study Bible includes character profiles, historical context, practical application notes, and study helps throughout the text. Those features have helped me understand both the well-known and lesser-known people in Scripture.
As Proverbs 4:7 reminds us:
“Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! And whatever else you do, develop good judgment.” (NLT)
A Bible you understand is one of the best tools for gaining that wisdom.
2. Highlighters
Different colors make learning more enjoyable.
Maybe that sounds simple, but when I enjoy a learning process, I remember it better.
You can assign colors to themes, promises, commands, prayers, or specific people. There isn’t a right or wrong way to do it.
Bible study should be engaging. I truly believe that.
3. Pens (And Lots of Them)
You’re going to want to take notes.
That’s why I recommend getting a Bible you feel comfortable writing in. If you’re trying to preserve Grandma’s beautiful Bible in pristine condition, set it safely on the shelf and buy one you can underline, circle, and fill with notes.
Then grab some colorful pens.
You can color-code your observations if you’d like, but mostly you’ll want room to capture what God is teaching you as you read.
4. A Ruler
This one might sound strange, but hear me out.
I love marking up my Bible. I do not love crooked lines.
A simple six-inch ruler helps me underline passages neatly and organize notes in the margins. It may not be essential for everyone, but for fellow detail-oriented Bible students, it’s a small tool that makes a big difference.
5. Notebooks
Actually, get more than one.
The more God reveals through His Word, the more you’ll want to write down. I’ve already filled pages with observations, questions, prayers, and lessons I don’t want to forget.
Habakkuk 2:2 says:
“Write my answer plainly on tablets, so that a runner can carry the correct message to others.” (NLT)
There is something powerful about writing down what God is teaching you.
Finding a Bible Study Plan That Works
Along with these tools, I recommend finding a Bible study plan that fits your personality and learning style.
Some people thrive without a structured plan. Others, like me, need accountability and a clear roadmap.
I happened to catch a great sale from The Daily Grace Co. and purchased their entire spiral-bound A Year in the Bible series. Having a daily guide helps me stay consistent and focused.
The key isn’t finding the perfect program.
The key is finding one you’ll actually use.
Don’t Forget Prayer
Of all the tools I’ve mentioned, prayer is the most important.
I begin every Bible study session with prayer, and I end every session the same way.
Before I open my Bible, I ask God to reveal Himself to me. I ask Him to teach me, guide me, and help me understand what He wants me to learn.
James 1:5 gives us this promise:
“If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you.” (NLT)
That’s exactly what I’ve been doing.
And even though I’m only a few weeks into this study, I already feel like I know God in a deeper and more personal way.
I’d Love to Hear From You
What Bible study are you currently doing?
Do you have favorite Bible study tools or accessories that help you stay engaged and consistent?
Share them in the comments. I’m always looking for new ideas, and I’d love to hear what works for you.
