Devotion is time spent with God through prayer and Scripture. It helps strengthen faith and deepen understanding. Many beginners struggle with where to start. A simple, consistent approach makes it easier.
Starting small is key. Long, complicated readings can feel overwhelming. A focused, daily habit builds spiritual growth over time. Choosing the right tools and setting aside quiet time make a big difference.
This guide offers practical steps to help you get started. Each tip is designed to make devotion time meaningful and consistent. Stick with it, and you’ll see growth in your relationship with God.
Getting Started with Devotion: Tips for Beginners
#1. Start with 5 to 10 Minutes Daily
Devotion time doesn’t have to be long to be meaningful. Many people think they need to spend an hour reading and praying, but that can feel overwhelming—especially for beginners. The key is to start small and be consistent. Five to ten minutes a day is enough to build a lasting habit.
Think of it like exercising. If you try to lift heavy weights on your first day, you might get discouraged and quit. But if you start with lighter exercises, you build strength over time. The same is true with devotion. Start small, and as your spiritual “muscles” grow, you’ll naturally want to spend more time with God.
If you miss a day, don’t feel guilty. Just start again the next day. What matters is steady progress, not perfection. A short, daily devotion is far more powerful than long, inconsistent sessions.
#2. Find a Distraction-Free Spot for Devotions
Distractions make it hard to focus. If your phone is buzzing, the TV is on, or people are talking around you, it’s difficult to connect with God. A quiet place allows you to give Him your full attention.
Find a spot where you won’t be interrupted. It could be a corner of your bedroom, a quiet spot in your house, or even outside in nature. If you live with others, let them know you need a few minutes alone.
Turn off notifications on your phone or put it on airplane mode. If necessary, use noise-canceling headphones or play soft instrumental music to block out background noise. A calm environment helps you focus on God’s Word without distractions pulling you away.
Over time, having a designated spot for devotion signals to your mind that it’s time to meet with God. It creates a routine, making it easier to stay consistent.
#3. Choose an Easy-to-Read Bible Version
The Bible is life-changing, but some translations are harder to understand than others. If you struggle with complicated wording, it’s okay to choose a version that makes reading easier.
Older translations, like the King James Version (KJV), use language that can feel outdated and difficult to follow. Instead, try versions like the New Living Translation (NLT) or the English Standard Version (ESV). These keep the original message but use modern, clear language.
Think of it this way: If you’re learning something new, you’d want a book that explains it in simple terms. The Bible should be the same. The goal is to understand and apply what you read, not just struggle through difficult words.
You can also use a parallel Bible or a Bible app that lets you compare different translations side by side. This helps clarify meanings and makes studying Scripture more enjoyable.
#4. Use a Devotional App or Book for Guidance
If you’ve ever opened the Bible and felt unsure of where to start, you’re not alone. The Bible is a big book, and having a plan helps. A devotional app or book gives structure and direction so you don’t feel lost.
Apps like YouVersion provide daily reading plans, devotionals, and reminders to help you stay on track. You can also find printed devotional books that guide you through short readings each day, often with reflections and prayers.
These resources don’t replace reading the Bible itself, but they make it easier to stay engaged and consistent. Over time, you’ll feel more confident reading Scripture on your own.
#5. Pray for Understanding Before You Read
The Bible isn’t just a regular book—it’s God’s Word. That means we need His help to truly understand and apply it. Before you start reading, take a moment to pray.
Your prayer doesn’t have to be long or complicated. Something as simple as “Lord, help me understand and apply Your Word today” is enough. This simple step invites God to guide your thoughts and reveal deeper meaning in what you read.
Prayer also shifts your mindset. Instead of reading just to get through a passage, you’re reading with the expectation that God will speak to you. That changes everything.
As you make prayer a habit before reading, you’ll notice how Scripture becomes clearer, more personal, and more impactful in your life.
#6. Write Down Key Verses and Reflections
Writing helps you remember and process what you read. When a verse stands out, write it down in a notebook or a notes app. Seeing Scripture in your own handwriting makes it more personal and memorable.
You don’t have to write long journal entries. Simply jot down key verses, thoughts, or even a short prayer based on what you read. Over time, you’ll build a collection of lessons and insights that show your spiritual growth.
Looking back at past notes can be encouraging. You’ll see how God has spoken to you and how your understanding has deepened.
#7. Focus on One Verse Instead of a Whole Chapter
Reading an entire chapter is great, but sometimes focusing on just one verse allows for deeper understanding. Instead of rushing through a passage, take time to reflect on a single verse.
Ask yourself:
- What does this verse mean?
- What is God teaching me through it?
- How can I apply it to my life today?
Some of the most powerful moments with God come from meditating on a single verse. Let it sink in. Memorize it if you can. The goal isn’t to read as much as possible—it’s to absorb and live out God’s truth.
#8. Think of One Way to Apply the Reading
God’s Word isn’t just meant to be read; it’s meant to change us. Every time you do your devotion, think of one practical way to apply what you’ve read.
If a verse talks about kindness, find a way to show kindness that day. If it speaks about trusting God, choose to pray instead of worrying. Application makes Scripture come alive in your daily life.
You don’t have to make big changes overnight. Even small steps of obedience lead to growth. Over time, applying what you read will shape your heart and actions.
#9. Set a Daily Routine for Devotion Time
Making devotion a habit is easier when it’s part of your daily routine. Choose a consistent time each day—morning, lunchtime, or before bed—so it becomes automatic.
Think of it like brushing your teeth. You don’t decide each day whether or not to do it—you just do it because it’s part of your routine. Devotion time should become just as natural.
Setting a reminder on your phone or placing your Bible where you’ll see it can help. The goal is to make devotion a normal, expected part of your day.
#10. Keep Going Even If You Miss a Day
Everyone misses a day sometimes. Life gets busy. But missing a day doesn’t mean you’ve failed. The key is to pick back up and keep going.
Don’t let guilt stop you from continuing. God isn’t keeping score or disappointed in you. His desire is for you to spend time with Him, not to check off perfect attendance.
If you miss a day, simply start again the next day. The important thing is progress, not perfection. Keep moving forward, and over time, your devotion time will become a natural and rewarding habit.
Closing Thoughts
Starting a daily devotion doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is to keep it simple and stay consistent. Even a few minutes each day will strengthen your faith and bring you closer to God.
Distractions, busy schedules, and missed days will happen. Don’t let them discourage you. Just keep going. A small step each day is better than stopping altogether.
God isn’t looking for perfection—He’s looking for a heart that seeks Him. Stay faithful, and over time, you’ll see growth in your relationship with Him. Keep showing up, and God will meet you there.