Last updated: December 30, 2024
This post was originally published in December 2015 and has been updated with fresh insights and current Bible reading plan resources to better serve you in your Bible reading journey.
Note: This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend tools I personally trust and believe will help you in your Bible study journey.
Table of Contents
Why You Need a Bible Reading Plan
Finding the right Bible reading plan can transform your time in God’s Word from occasional reading to meaningful, consistent study. Whether you prefer digital apps, printable guides, or traditional methods, having a structured approach helps you develop a sustainable Bible reading habit. Many Bible reading plans are available, but choosing the one that fits your style is key.
What You’ll Find in This Guide
- Digital Bible reading plans for your devices
- Printable plans you can keep in your Bible
- Traditional reading methods that stand the test of time
- Tips for choosing and sticking to your plan
- Free and premium options for every study style
Choosing Your Perfect Plan
The best Bible reading plan is one you’ll actually use. Some people thrive with chronological reading, others prefer daily Old and New Testament selections, while some benefit from topical studies. This guide will help you find the approach that works best for you.
Before choosing your plan, you might want to read about why having a Bible reading plan matters and how to stick with it.
Digital Bible Reading Plans
In today’s digital world, Bible reading apps and online platforms make it easier than ever to maintain a consistent Scripture reading habit. Here are the most reliable and user-friendly digital options available.
Bible Gateway Reading Plans
Bible Gateway offers some of the most comprehensive digital reading plans available, with Bible reading plans that stand out for features that help you stay consistent in your Bible reading journey.
Key Features
- Multiple Bible translations
- Email reminders
- Progress tracking
- Pause and resume capability
- Free account synchronization

Popular Bible Gateway Plans
- Chronological Bible Reading Plan: Experience Scripture in historical order
- Old and New Testament Daily: Read portions from both Testaments
- Bible in One Year: Complete reading plan with manageable daily portions
- New Testament in One Year: Focus on the Gospels and Epistles
- Psalms and Proverbs Monthly: Perfect as a supplemental reading plan
Upgrade Your Bible Reading Experience
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• Unlock 50+ premium study resources • Study distraction-free without ads
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WeAreChurch Reading Plan
This unique reading plan combines daily Scripture reading with guided reflection questions that help you apply God’s Word to your life.
Distinctive Elements
- Simple, focused daily readings
- Thoughtful reflection prompts:
- Pray for Insight
- God Being Revealed
- Now Let’s Respond
- PDF format for easy printing or digital use
- Perfect for individual or group study
Pro Tip: Consider combining a structured reading plan with reflection questions to deepen your understanding and application of Scripture.
YouVersion Bible App Plans
The YouVersion Bible App has become one of the most popular platforms for Bible reading, offering a variety of plans to suit different needs and schedules.
Stand-Out Features
- Thousands of reading plans
- Multiple languages available
- Social sharing options
- Progress notifications
- Offline access
- Free to use
Recommended YouVersion Plans
- Through the Bible: Various pace options from 90 days to one year
- Topical Studies: Focus on specific themes or books
- Devotional Plans: Combine Scripture reading with reflection
- Audio Bible Options: Listen while you read
Printable Bible Reading Plans
While digital tools offer convenience, many people prefer the tangible experience of printed Bible reading plans tucked in their Bible. These tried-and-true plans have guided believers through Scripture for generations.
Best of all, you’ll have fewer distractions at your fingertips and you won’t have to charge a battery to put these to use!

Traditional Reading Plans
Chronological Bible Reading Plan
Experience the Bible’s narrative as events occurred historically.
- Duration: One year
- Format: PDF download
- Special Feature: Historical context
- Best For: Understanding Biblical timeline
- Download from Blue Letter Bible (PDF)
M’Cheyne Bible Reading Plan
A classic plan that takes you through:
- Old Testament once
- New Testament and Psalms twice
- Duration: One year
- Format: Printable calendar
- Best For: Comprehensive Bible study
- Download PDF
Bible in One Year
The traditional cover-to-cover approach.
- Systematic reading from Genesis to Revelation
- Balanced daily portions
- Approximately 3-4 chapters per day
- Format: Simple checklist
- Download One Year Plan (PDF – Courtesy of heartlight.org)
New Testament in a Year
Perfect for those new to Bible reading or wanting focused study.
- One chapter per day
- Weekends for reflection or catch-up
- Format: Simple tracking sheet
- Best For: Building consistent habits
- Download NT in a Year Plan (PDF – Courtesy of The Moody Church)
Specialized Reading Plans
5x5x5 New Testament Plan
From The Navigators’ Discipleship Journal:
- 5 minutes per day
- 5 days per week
- 5 ways to dig deeper
- Perfect for busy schedules
- Includes reflection questions
- Download 5x5x5 Plan (PDF – Courtesy of Navigators)
90-Day Bible Challenge
An intensive approach for dedicated study:
- Complete Bible in three months
- Requires 45-60 minutes daily
- Includes progress tracker
- Best For: Summer break or focused seasons
- 90 Day Bible Challenge (PDF)
Tips for Using Printable Plans
- Keep your plan where you’ll see it daily
- Mark off completed readings
- Use weekends for catch-up if needed
- Start today’s reading rather than trying to catch up
- Consider laminating for durability
Pro Tip: Print multiple copies of your chosen plan – keep one in your Bible, one at your desk, and one in your journal for easy reference.
Choosing the Right Plan
Selecting the best Bible reading plan for your needs is crucial for developing a consistent Scripture reading habit. Let’s explore the key factors to consider and how to make your plan successful.

Comparing Bible Reading Plans: Factors to Consider
Time Commitment
- 15 Minutes Daily: YouVersion or Bible Gateway basic plans
- 30 Minutes Daily: Traditional one-year Bible reading plans
- 45-60 Minutes Daily: Intensive plans like the 90-day challenge
- Flexible Schedule: 5x5x5 plan with built-in grace days
Study Goals
- Overview of Scripture: Choose a through-the-Bible-in-a-year plan
- Deep Study: WeAreChurch plan with reflection questions
- New Testament Focus: Start with a focused NT plan
- Topic Exploration: Select Bible Gateway or YouVersion themed reading plans
Format Preferences
- Digital:
- Always have your plan with you
- Track progress automatically
- Receive reminders
- Sync across devices
- Print:
- No screen time required
- Physical bookmark in your Bible
- Tangible progress tracking
- No technical barriers
Experience Level
- New to Bible Reading:
- Start with New Testament plans
- Use plans with built-in rest days
- Choose plans with clear guidance
- Experienced Readers:
- Try chronological or intensive plans
- Combine multiple reading approaches
- Add reflection and study elements
Making Your Plan Successful
Essential Tips
- Start with today’s reading
- Be realistic about your schedule
- Choose a consistent time of day
- Have a backup plan for busy days
- Focus on progress, not perfection
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Trying to catch up on missed days
- Choosing an overly ambitious plan
- Starting multiple plans simultaneously
- Neglecting to track progress
- Reading without reflection
Getting Started
Now that you’ve explored various Bible reading plans, it’s time to take action. Here’s how to begin your journey of consistent Bible reading.
Next Steps
1. Choose Your Primary Plan
- Select one main reading plan
- Consider your current season of life
- Start with something achievable
- Remember you can adjust as needed
2. Set Up Your Reading Space
- Choose a consistent location
- Gather necessary materials:
- Your Bible
- Reading plan
- Journal or note-taking method
- Pen or digital device

3. Establish Your Routine
- Pick your daily reading time
- Set reminders if helpful
- Remove potential distractions
- Plan for weekend readings
4. Track Your Progress
- Mark completed readings
- Journal key insights
- Note questions for further study
- Celebrate small wins
5. Build in Accountability
- Share your plan with others
- Find a reading partner
- Join a Bible study group
- Use progress tracking tools
While tracking your progress and finding a reading partner are great starts, having a supportive community can make all the difference in your Bible reading journey.
You Don’t Have to Read Alone
Join our private Telegram community for:
• Share your Bible reading journey • Receive encouragement
• Prayer support • Accountability • Fellowship with other believers
This is a private, request-to-join community to ensure a safe, focused environment for everyone.
Now that you have both a plan and a community to support you, let’s look at how to begin…
Starting Today
Remember these key principles as you begin:
- Start with today’s reading
- Whether you choose digital or printed Bible reading plans, consistency is key over quantity
- Give yourself grace when needed
- Keep the goal in mind: knowing God better through His Word
Your Turn
Which Bible reading plan will you choose? Consider your schedule, goals, and preferred format, then take that first step today. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step – and your journey through God’s Word begins with today’s reading.
Thank you for sharing these great resources! I think I’m going to take a look at the Chronological reading plan. I get so confused sometimes, about the timeline of the Bible, since it’s not written in chronological order. I’ve been doing my own version of Old/Testament/New Testament reading this past year. I’ve ended up reading through the New Testament 2x in the process. It will probably be 3x by the time I’m finished with the Old Testament. Right now, I’m working on two books that aren’t easy…Jeremiah and Revelation.
Hey Dawn, those are difficult books to end on! Along the lines of Numbers lol ?
I’m also considering the Chronological plan this year, I know my wife did that a few years ago and she really liked it, it would be a good one to do together. The other one I’m interested in is the Historical plan since I’m a geek about OT theology and Biblical archaeology.
Thank you for stopping by, I appreciate your input, happy new year!!
Reading the Bible chronologically, in the order that events occurred, can help us understand its narrative more clearly and see it from a fresh perspective.
I totally agree Robert. Reading through the Bible chronologically does bring clarity and cohesiveness to the events throughout Scripture. Bible Gateway and others do offer solid chronological reading plans.
I’m going to begin with 40 days with God for Personal Growth. I tend to be more nature-based and spiritual, however I feel a desire to connect more deeply with God. I’m hoping to gain more inner peace and faith by spending time with his word each morning. thank you for sharing all these resources!
Hi Stephanie,
That’s a solid place to start when taking your spiritual tendencies into consideration. I often find myself returning to what feeds my soul as well. Blessings to you as you dig deeper and move closer to God!
thank you for your reply 😃