I Read the Whole Bible, and You Can Too

Want to read the entire Bible but don’t know where to start? Gilda Rose Khalathil shares how she read the Bible cover to cover. 

Have you ever wanted to read the whole Bible? I’ve read the Bible cover to cover a few times, and I want to share the different ways I did it and what worked best for me. 

Why Read the Whole Bible? 

The Bible is God’s Word. Knowing Scripture is one of the surest ways to know God Himself. Meditating on it allows us to understand His mind and heart. Doing this consistently purifies our senses, intentions, and conscience. It shapes our thoughts and actions so that we stay aligned with God’s purpose for us. 

When we face challenges, the Holy Spirit reminds us of what we’ve read, strengthening and guiding us through His Word. 

Read the Bible Cover to Cover

My first attempt was simple: I decided to read the Bible straight through, from Genesis to Revelation. 

I already knew parts of Scripture, but I wanted to experience it as a continuous story. I was also challenged by the thought that I read so many other books each year—how could I not have read the world’s most precious one from start to finish? 

So I just started. No plan, no timeline, sometimes reading large chunks, sometimes small. I did finish it, and it helped me, though in hindsight it felt a bit like reading an inspiring novel. The Word had planted seeds, but perhaps some fell on the path, as Jesus said. 

Read the Bible Meaningfully

The second time, I wanted more depth. I told myself I needed to pause, reflect, and let the Word transform me. 

This time was slower. I missed days, restarted often, and sometimes gave up. But on the days I did read, meditate, and journal, the experience was powerful. You can’t invite God’s Word into your life and not be changed, just as sitting in the sun will naturally warm you. 

Still, the busyness of life often choked that growth, like seeds among thorns. 

Read the Bible with Consistency and Community

On my third attempt, I wanted both consistency and depth. So I started a small chat group to read one chapter a day. A chapter felt long enough to reflect on, but short enough to be doable daily. 

I invited a few friends, and they invited theirs. Each day, we shared short reflections about what that chapter spoke to us. The group gave me accountability and encouragement. 

It took us three years to finish the Bible, but we did it! Along the way, we divided the books into smaller goals: the Pentateuch, Historical Books, Wisdom Books, Prophetic Books, Gospels, Acts of the Apostles, Catholic Epistles, and Revelation. 

This allowed new people to join at any stage. We prayed for each other and for a deeper love of Scripture. Over time, others began leading the group, sending reminders, and encouraging one another. We became a small community of believers, many of whom had never met, united by our shared desire to know God’s Word. 

It wasn’t perfect, but it was fruitful. Not too fast, not too slow, just steady and meaningful. 

What Worked Best for Me 

Of all my attempts, the third was the most successful, not because it was flawless, but because it balanced consistency, accountability, and reflection. 

If you feel inspired to read the whole Bible, try doing it with a group. Start small, be patient, and watch your faith grow as you walk together through Scripture. 

Another wonderful option if this is your first time is Father Mike Schmitz’s Bible in a Year podcast, available on YouTube. It gives context, structure, and solid theological reflections that can help you build a strong foundation. 

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Copyright 2025 Gilda Rose Khalathil
Images: Canva