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Starting Fresh in the New Year

Writer's picture: Laura Van HornLaura Van Horn

A 6-Month Bible Reading Plan


A Bible opened to Psalms with a notebook ready to take notes, on a table with green plants around
A Bible open to the Psalms

The start of a new year presents a unique opportunity—not only for reflection and resolution but for transformation. As we embrace the new year, we should seek regeneration through the power of our Lord, Jesus Christ. This is a time for a new beginning—an opportunity to commit to deepening our faith by immersing ourselves in His Word.


One of the most essential means of spiritual growth is the regular reading of Scripture. The Bible is not merely a collection of ancient texts; it is the living Word of God, divinely inspired and authoritative. It is through the Scriptures that we come to know Christ more fully and grow in the knowledge of His will. As we immerse ourselves in the Word, we are not only instructed in wisdom but are also conformed to the image of Christ. This year, I encourage you to make a deliberate commitment to read through the Bible. In doing so, you will be equipped and strengthened to face the challenges of life with steadfast faith and enduring hope.


You can read through the Bible at any pace and in any order that you wish, but I wanted to share a 6-month Bible reading plan. The Bible can be one of the most intimidating books to decide to read cover to cover, but it can be done by devoting 20 minutes a day, every day to reading. With this plan, you will engage with all 66 books, alternating between the Old and New Testaments

Practical Tips for Staying Consistent:

  • Set aside time each day: Make Bible reading a priority by setting a specific time each day. Whether it is in the morning or evening, consistency is key. Choose a time that works for you and stick with it to form a habit.

  • Journal your thoughts: Some find it helpful to write down insights or verses that resonate with them as they read. Journaling can help to deepen your understanding and allow you to reflect on how God is speaking to you through His Word.

  • Pray: Before reading, ask God to open your heart and mind to what He wants to teach you through His Word. Prayerfully ask for understanding as you read and thank God afterward for the wisdom He provides.

  • Join a Bible study group: If possible, consider joining a group where you can share, encourage one another, and grow together. A community of believers can help hold you accountable, and the shared insights and discussions will enrich your understanding of the Scriptures.


an open bible on a table with a cup of tea next to it
Bible and tea

A 6-month Bible Reading Plan

To aid you in your reading endeavor, I created a Bible reading plan that spans six months, feel free to read faster or slower, this is not an assignment, but an encouragement. In this plan, we will alternate between the Old and New Testaments each month, which helps maintain a balance between the foundations of God’s covenant with Israel and the fulfillment of the prophecies through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.


Brew yourself a cup of tea, and let's get started!


Month 1: God’s Creation, Redemption, and Christ's Ministry

In this month, we dive into the beginning of all things—God’s creation and His covenant with Israel. As we read through the Old Testament books of Genesis and Exodus, and then move into the Gospels, we discover the fulfillment of God's promises in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.

  • Genesis

  • Exodus

  • Leviticus

  • Numbers

  • Deuteronomy

  • Matthew

  • Mark

  • Luke

  • John

  • Joshua

  • Judges


Month 2: God’s Sovereignty Over His People

Here we explore God’s sovereignty in history—His faithful dealings with His people, Israel, through both their triumphs and failures. Through the history of the kings and prophets, we see God’s faithfulness and righteous judgment.

  • Ruth

  • 1 Samuel

  • 2 Samuel

  • 1 Kings

  • 2 Kings

  • 1 Chronicles

  • 2 Chronicles

  • Ezra

  • Nehemiah

  • Esther

  • Acts

  • Romans


Month 3: Wisdom, and a New Covenant

In this month, we explore the wisdom literature of Scripture and the epistles that articulate the gospel of grace and the new covenant in Christ. The story of Job challenges us to think about suffering and wisdom, while Paul’s letters provide essential instruction for Christian living.

  • Job

  • 1 Corinthians

  • 2 Corinthians

  • Galatians

  • Ephesians

  • Philippians

  • Colossians

  • 1 Thessalonians

  • 2 Thessalonians

  • 1 Timothy

  • 2 Timothy


Month 4: Living Out the New Covenant

These books examine the practical outworking of the new covenant, offering exhortation and encouragement to live holy, loving, and steadfast lives in Christ, while also taking a look back at the writing of the prophets Isaiah and Jeremiah.

  • Hebrews

  • James

  • 1 Peter

  • 2 Peter

  • 1 John

  • 2 John

  • 3 John

  • Jude

  • Isaiah

  • Jeremiah

  • Titus

  • Philemon


Month 5: Judgment and Restoration—The Prophets and God’s Promise to His People

The prophets speak powerful words of judgment and restoration—pointing to the coming Messiah who would rescue His people from sin and death. These books are as relevant today as they were in ancient Israel, reminding us of God’s justice and mercy.

  • Lamentations

  • Ezekiel

  • Daniel

  • Hosea

  • Joel

  • Amos

  • Obadiah

  • Jonah

  • Micah

  • Nahum

  • Habakkuk


Month 6: Wisdom of the Lord and End Times

We end with a reflection on the wisdom of the Lord in the books of Psalms, Proverbs, and Ecclesiastes, while also reflecting on the ultimate hope of the believer: the return of Christ and the final victory over sin and death as revealed in Revelation.

  • Zephaniah

  • Haggai

  • Zechariah

  • Malachi

  • Psalms

  • Proverbs

  • Ecclesiastes

  • Song of Solomon

  • Revelation



Starting Fresh in Christ

As we start on this 6-month reading adventure through the entirety of God’s Word, let us remember that regeneration is a continuous work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Every day, as we read the Scriptures, God’s Word renews our hearts and minds, transforming us into the likeness of Christ.


In the same way that the start of a new year offers us an opportunity to start fresh, so too does God’s Word provide us with a new beginning every day. May this year be one of renewal, marked by a deeper knowledge and understanding of God’s Word, a closer walk with Christ, and a more steadfast commitment to living according to His will. Through Scripture, we are not only informed but transformed—a new creation in Christ.





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