1. It is suggested that beginners read the gospel of John first.  If you are interested in poetry, symbolism and metaphysics this will probably remain your favorite book in the bible.  For those who are better suited to a more straightforward summary of the life and ministry of Jesus Christ; then Mark, the shortest gospel might be a better choice. 2. It is best to read an entire book of the bible rather than jumping around from verse to verse.  Most were meant to be digested as a whole.  That doesn't mean you can't look up what the pastor preached about in church or heard from someone else.  I'm talking about study. 3. It is better to begin study with a group, for example at a bible study class at church; or under the tutelage of a mentor. 4. There is nothing wrong with studying at several churches at once; it may even increase your basic knowledge of the outline of scripture and the main stories more quickly.  Keep an open mind. 5. One tool that I found extremely helpful when I began studying scripture was to take a few months reading Psalms and Proverbs.  Billy Graham has said that reading psalms, "teaches me how to get along with God...Proverbs...teaches me how to get along with my fellow man."  In addition, Martin Luther called the book of Psalms, "a bible in miniature."  The 5th century scholar St. Augustine called it, the "language of devotion." 6. Read five psalms a day and one proverb (perhaps the psalms in the morning when you wake up and the proverb just before bed) and in a month you will have completed both books.  They can be both beautiful and re-petitious.  However, as one becomes immersed in these books of wisdom one slowly learns to recognize and hear God's voice.  I recommend keeping up this regimen for at least two months. 7. As you become more and more used to reading scripture you will under-stand more.  I pray that it will become apparent to you, as it did for me, that only God could have authored these beautiful wise words.  Each time you read a book you will often have many new things revealed. 8. One good technique, as you become more ad-vanced, is to read one book over and over until you know it cold--then move on. 9. As you grow in the Lord and become more in-dependent several study aids are es-sential.  First, a good bible dictionary; I recom-mend The New Unger's Bible Dictionary highly see below).  Second, a concordance will allow you to look up bible verses quickly.  Most people get a Strong's concordance.  To some extent, the need to buy this has been obviated by the content on the inter-net.  One of the ex-ceptional websites is www.biblegateway.com.  But, the Hebrew, Greek and Aramaic dictionaries in the back of the Strong's are a useful tool and alone may make the investment worth it. 10. Even though it is difficult we should endeavor to read the entire bible.  With the exception of Psalms, Proverbs, and Genesis and Exodus the entire New Testament should be completed before tackling the Old Testament.  It is an incredibly rewarding achievement.  Set your own pace, one year, three years or whatever.  You owe it to yourself and Him.  11. It is important to pray before studying the bible.  You should ask that the Lord reveal Himself to you in His word, that you have greater understanding of its meaning, and that you remember as much of it as possible.  Study in a quiet secluded space if possible.  Afterward, attempt to mentally review the material in your head during the day to increase retention.  12. The New International Version (NIV) of the bible is closest to the original translations among those versions designed to be easier understood.  Don't be afraid to ask questions or to disagree.  Never stop learning!!!