How Long Does It Take to Read the Bible?

As I walk alongside believers in their faith journey, one question frequently surfaces: “How long does it take to read through the Bible?” Whether you’re just beginning your walk with Christ or seeking to deepen your relationship with Him, understanding the time commitment for an average reader to read through the Bible helps establish a sustainable spiritual rhythm in your daily life.

The Scope of God’s Word

God’s Word contains approximately 750,000 words of divine inspiration. But more than just words on a page, Scripture encompasses God’s love letter to us through various literary forms – from compelling historical narratives and soul-stirring poetry to profound prophecies and intimate letters. Each genre invites us to encounter God in unique ways, deserving thoughtful meditation and prayerful consideration. Reading the entire Bible is essential to fully appreciate the diverse literary forms and messages it contains.

Bible Reading Plans for Every Season

30-Minute Daily Reading Plan

Time to complete the Bible: 3-4 months
Ideal for: Parents balancing family life, working professionals seeking God’s wisdom
Spiritual Practice: Begin your day with Scripture during your quiet time with the Lord. Reading one chapter a day can fit perfectly into a 30-minute daily reading plan.

1-Hour Daily Reading Plan

Time to complete the Bible: About 2 months
Ideal for: Those in a season of focused spiritual growth
Spiritual Practice: Divide reading between morning meditation and evening reflection, allowing God’s truth to frame your day. Many books of the Bible can be read in less than an hour, making this plan efficient for even the busiest individuals.

2-Hour Daily Reading Plan

Time to complete the Bible: About 1 month
Ideal for: Those called to a season of deep biblical study
Spiritual Practice: Incorporate prayer, journaling, and meditation throughout your reading

Individual reading speed can greatly influence the time it takes to complete the Bible using this plan.

Your Bible Reading Questions Answered

How Long Does It Take to Read the Bible in 40 Days?

Yes, it’s possible through dedication and approximately 1.5 hours of focused time with the Lord daily. Many find this especially meaningful during seasons like Lent or personal spiritual retreats. Remember, though, that transformation comes through both reading and allowing the Holy Spirit to work in your heart. Consider using an audio version of the Bible to help maintain the pace required to complete it in 40 days.

Can You Read the Bible in One Week?

While physically possible, I encourage you to approach Scripture not as a task to complete but as an opportunity for intimate fellowship with God. His Word is meant to be treasured, meditated upon, and lived out in our daily walk. For those who find the idea of reading the entire Bible in one week overwhelming, focusing on the entire New Testament can be a more manageable alternative.

Is Reading the Bible in Three Months Realistic?

Absolutely! This pace allows for about 30-45 minutes of daily reading – a rhythm that many find sustainable while providing space for the Holy Spirit to speak through His Word. Additionally, focusing on the four Gospels can be a manageable reading goal within this three-month time frame.

Tips for Your Bible Reading Journey

Through years of walking with the Lord through His Word, here’s what I’ve found most life-giving:

Begin with a yearly reading plan for your first journey through Scripture, allowing time for the Holy Spirit to illuminate connections and apply God’s truth to your life.
Set aside your most alert hours for time in God’s Word. Let Him have your best, not just what’s left over.
Consider pairing Old and New Testament readings to witness the beautiful tapestry of God’s redemptive story.
Join a Bible study group to enhance your understanding and retention of biblical teachings. Engaging with Scripture deeply in a community allows participants to share insights and support one another in their reading and comprehension of God’s Word.
Rest in grace when you miss a day. Your Father cares more about relationship than perfect reading schedules.

Beyond Reading Time: Heart Transformation

Remember that reading Scripture is about transformation, not just information. True engagement with God’s Word involves:

Quiet moments of listening for His voice
Recording insights He reveals
Bringing your heart before Him in prayer
Sharing insights in Christian community
Returning to challenging passages with fresh eyes

Finding Your Bible Reading Rhythm

The time invested in reading Scripture varies by season and individual, but the heart of the journey is growing in intimate relationship with our Lord. Whether He leads you through His Word in 40 days or a full year, what matters is regular, meaningful engagement with the truth that transforms. Establishing a daily Bible reading routine can help you find a sustainable reading rhythm.

Remember, this is your personal journey with the Father through His Word. Embrace a pace that allows you to not just read, but to be transformed by the living Word of God.

Share your journey: How long did it take you to read through the Bible? What reading rhythms have helped you grow closer to Him? Let’s encourage one another in our walk with Him.