If you’re anything like me, it’s easy to set high expectations when it comes to setting a new goal. Especially with something like Bible reading, it can be both exciting and intimidating! Maybe you’ve found yourself wondering, “Where do I even start?” or you’ve opened your Bible with the best intentions, only to get overwhelmed and abandon the habit after just a few days. I’ve been there too.
Here’s the thing: without some kind of guide, it’s so easy to lose your way. And not just in what you’re reading, but in understanding what the text really means. Most of us haven’t been to seminary or spent years studying biblical languages.
That’s why solid Bible study tools are so important. They give you a path to follow, helping you get the most out of your quiet time with God and understand how all those different stories fit together into one great story.
With so many choices in the Bible study market, this article will help you sort through the many options with curated recommendations depending on your needs. But first, let’s set the foundation and understand why we need Bible study tools in the first place.
Why Bible Study Tools Matter
Whether it’s a workbook, a video Bible study, or a digital resource like Bible Gateway Plus, a good Bible study tool can:
- Offer structure and direction, helping you know what to focus on each day.
- Explain tough passages and reveal connections you might otherwise miss.
- Help you see how the Bible speaks to your unique season of life.
- Provide practical applications so you do more than just read but are transformed by what you’ve read.
Plus, using a Bible study tool from a trusted teacher frees you up to meet with God, receive what He has to say, and reflect on what you’re learning, without having to become a biblical scholar overnight (phew!).
Similarly, the right Bible study tool helps keep you from just bouncing your own ideas around without any outside perspective. It’s a crucial way we can guard against confusion or even, unintentionally, veering off into our own interpretations of Scripture.
How to Choose the Right Bible Study Tool
If you’re looking for your first (or next) Bible study resource, here’s what I recommend considering first:
- Think about your goals. Are you searching for direction in your daily quiet time? Wanting to dive deeper into theology or a particular book of the Bible? Or maybe you’re looking for a Bible study tool that’s designed for a group so you can learn in community?
- Consider your season of life. Maybe you want a topical study that speaks to what’s on your heart right now, or a year-long study to help you build consistency. Depending on your needs and availability, you may consider a weekly Bible study with daily personal study between sessions, or something designed to be done every day for a fixed amount of time.
- Check the source. It’s important to use resources from trusted, vetted teachers and publishers. The cheapest or prettiest book isn’t always the best guide; look for authors who are faithful to Scripture and have the kind of wisdom you want shaping your time with God.
With so many options to choose from, clarifying your goals will help make choosing the right Bible study tool for you so much easier.
Top Bible Study Tools and Resources for 2026
To help you find the right resource, I’ve sorted some of our top recommendations into five distinct categories. This isn’t an exhaustive list, but it’s a helpful starting point as you begin your Bible study journey. Try not to feel too overwhelmed by the options and instead narrow in on what category feels most relevant to you in your season of life, and then pick from there. You really can’t go wrong with any of these options!
One thing I want to note: this list contains both video Bible studies and workbooks. I’ve noted which ones are video Bible studies and how many sessions they are for reference. Though video Bible studies are traditionally done in a group setting, you can also do these studies on your own and use the discussion questions as personal journalling prompts.
Let’s dive in!
Bible Studies for Starting Your Journey
This category is ideal for those who are new to reading the Bible or are looking for a big-picture overview of Scripture. These resources help build a solid foundation, making God’s Word more accessible and understandable.
Top Recommendations:
- The Bible, Simplified by Zach Windahl (8 session video Bible study): A perfect starting point that breaks down complex themes into easy-to-understand concepts. Zach digs into historical context, different genres in the Bible, proven Bible study methods, and more.
- 40 Days Through the Bible by Lysa TerKeurst: A guided, full-color workbook experience that connects the entire story of Scripture, showing how it all points to Jesus. You’ll be amazed at how much you can learn in just 40 days!
More Great Options:
- How (Not) to Read the Bible by Dan Kimball
- Threaded by Tara Beth Leach
- Experiencing the Heart of Jesus for 52 Weeks by Max Lucado
- The Jesus Bible Study series by Passion
Another wonderful resource for both new Bible readers and seasoned students is a Bible Gateway Plus membership. It offers access to dozens of study Bibles, commentaries, dictionaries, and more, providing a rich, trusted companion to your study experience.
In-Depth Bible Studies
For those who want to dig deeper into the text, this category is perfect. Whether you’re exploring a specific book of the Bible or wrestling with more complex biblical themes, these resources provide rich theological and historical context.
Top Recommendations:
- Psalms by Dr. Sandra Richter (8 session video Bible study): An academic yet accessible look into the historical and cultural context of the Psalms. You’ll love Sandy’s down to earth, quippy teaching style and be amazed how much you didn’t know about this popular book of the Bible!
- The New Testament You Never Knew by N.T. Wright and Michael Bird (8 session video Bible study): Renowned Biblical scholar N.T Wright takes you to the Holy Land as you discover things you never knew about Jesus’ baptism and journey in the wilderness, the meaning behind the parables, and so much more.
- A Jesus Shaped Life by Lisa Harper (8 session video Bible study): In her signature teaching style, Lisa Harper invites you to experience how biblically sound theology deepens your relationship with God and each other.
More Great Options for Specific Books of the Bible
Kind of like how a commentary provides additional context, these workbook studies will help you think critically about what you’re learning and provide additional guidance from the teacher, so you don’t have to make sense of what you’re reading on your own. It’s kind of like having Max Lucado or Scot McKnight sitting right beside you as you read through the text!
- Life Lessons with Max Lucado Bible Study Series
- David Jeremiah’s Bible Study Series
- John MacArthur’s Bible Study Series
- The New Testament Everyday Series with Scot McKnight
- NIV Application Commentary Series
Topical Bible Studies
If you want to focus on a specific area of your spiritual life, a topical Bible study is a great choice. These studies allow you to spend dedicated time learning about a particular facet of Christian life. They are an excellent way to broaden your knowledge or take a break from studying a specific book of the Bible.
On Prayer
- The Daniel Prayer by Anne Graham Lotz (6 session video Bible study): Learn to pray with power and purpose like Daniel in Daniel 9.
- The GREAT Morning Revolution by Tara Beth Leach (6 session video Bible study): Build a morning prayer habit that will help you change your whole day by changing the rhythm of your morning — no matter your circumstances.
- Praying with Women of the Bible for 30 Days by Sherry Harney: Connect with women in the Bible as you learn how to bring your needs to God in prayer.
On the Holy Spirit
- Help Is Here by Max Lucado (5 session video Bible study): Find comfort and strength by understanding the Holy Spirit’s role as your divine helper.
- The God You Need to Know by Margaret Feinberg (6 session video Bible study): Deepen your relationship with the Holy Spirit as you study the Spirit’s work throughout the Old and New Testament.
On the End Times
- What Happens Next by Max Lucado (6 session video Bible study): Study what the Bible says about the End Times and marvel at the promise that for followers of Christ, the best is yet to come.
- The Great Disappearance by Dr. David Jeremiah: Explore the prophecies surrounding the Rapture and the Second Coming and what they mean for us today.
Small Group Video Bible Studies
While many of the studies mentioned can be used for both individual and group settings, the following are some popular studies for small groups. Each study includes video teaching from a trusted Christian teacher, discussion questions for meaningful conversation, personal study to help you apply what you’re learning, and a leader’s guide.
Top Recommendations for Women’s Groups
- Luke: Gut-Level Compassion by Lisa Harper (8 session video Bible study): Read through the Gospel of Luke and discover a gospel that that doesn’t celebrate the elite, but embraces the outliers, outcasts, and overlooked.
- Forgiving What You Can’t Forget by Lysa TerKeurst (6 session video Bible study): Discover what the Bible says about forgiveness and how to find the peace that comes from embracing it.
- Now and Not Yet by Ruth Chou Simons (6 session video Bible study): Learn to live in the present and trust in God’s faithfulness, even while hoping for the future.
Top Recommendations for Men’s Groups
- Your Story Has a Villain by JP Pokluda (5 session video Bible study): Learn how to fight back against the Devil’s schemes as you put on the armor of God.
- Don’t Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table by Louie Giglio (6 session video Bible study): Unpack Psalm 23 as you learn how to overcome the enemy’s lies and find peace and spiritual security in any circumstance or situation.
- The Awe of God by John Bevere (6 session video Bible study): Study the more than 40 promises in Scripture given to those who embrace holy fear.
Year-Long Studies
If you’re looking for a single resource to guide you through the entire year, a 52-week study is the perfect option. These studies provide a consistent, structured plan to help you build a lasting habit of getting into God’s Word every day. They are also cost-effective options for those who might feel overwhelmed by choices — just one purchase for a full year of Bible study!
Top Recommendations:
- Praying the Names of God for 52 Weeks by Ann Spangler: Deepen your prayer life by focusing on a new name or attribute of God each week.
- Experiencing the Heart of Jesus for 52 Weeks by Max Lucado: Encounter a deeper experience of the person and character of Jesus by studying 11 key characteristics.
- Jesus Calling 52-Week Bible Study by Sarah Young: Learn how to better make space in your life for the Spirit of God to speak to you through the Word of God and the people of God.
More Great Options:
- 52 Weeks through the Bible by John MacArthur
- Encountering God’s Love from Genesis to Revelation for 52 Weeks by Randy and Rozanne Frazee
- Daily Scripture Guidebook: A 52-Week Journey Through the Bible by Tim Wildsmith
Conclusion: Get Started Reading the Bible More Intentionally Today!
Building a Bible study habit doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The important thing is to start small — just a few minutes a day is enough to begin forming a meaningful rhythm. And like any new habit, accountability is key! Find a friend or a small group to join you on your journey.
And, if you need additional support, a Bible Gateway Plus membership can help you dive even deeper into your Bible reading with notes and articles from dozens of Study Bibles and other Bible Study tools — all for less than a pack of highlighters. Sign up for a free trial today!
The most important thing to remember about building a new Bible study habit is that it’s not about perfection or ticking off a to-do list. Be patient with yourself and enjoy your time in God’s Word, growing in your relationship with Him. You’ve got this and happy studying!
Arin Kurtz is the Digital Marketing Director at HarperChristian Resources. She is passionate about helping churches, small groups, and everyday believers engage more deeply with Scripture through meaningful Bible study. Arin lives in Colorado with her husband and their husky–pit bull mix, Kirby.
