How to Gain Understanding of the Bible

Steps

1. Realize that the Bible is not one single book, but is made up of the sacred texts of many people over a long period of time. It should not be surprising that it contains many internal variations, as it did not go through a systematic compilation all at once. The process which created the Bible involved many different cultures, and therefore many different motivations. If you can accept this, it will enrich your study by giving you the power to see the beauty of the evolution of ideas.
2. Understand that the Bible may contain apparent conflicting views, but the Bible is an essential document for anyone trying to understand the evolution of human spirituality. Talk with others about what you are reading, look at good biblical commentaries and pray often.
3. All translations will have flaws, because the Bible was penned by human beings, but inspired by God. Remember that, with diligence, you can resolve these conflicts by comparing the Bible with other texts from the same time period. For this reason, it is OK to start with any translation. The NIV is the most understandable version, but the King James version is the most accurate. The NKJV is a good compromise, accurate and understandable. If it is the truth you seek, your journey will never end.
4. Understand that many Christians have believed that Jesus is God's Living Word (Logos) and that the Bible is a record of truths / beliefs written down by humans. All the stories we have of Jesus were written by humans, who can make errors. So we must not accept any one text as authoritative. The only safety is found in a process of comparing and contrasting between the many available sources found within and outside of the Bible.
5. Understand that the Bible is a historical book and that, while some of its messages may be applicable today, not all may seem to apply.
6. Know the central theme of God's message to you is to love God with all your might and all your strength, and to love others as yourself, both in the Old and New Testaments.
7. Look for Jesus in each book. All scripture either points to the cross or refers back to it.
8. Approach it expectantly. Expect God to reveal Himself, answer your questions, and change your life for the better.
9. Understand that the hardest part of Bible study is in getting started. So be patient with yourself and work toward consistency. Five minutes per day is much better than an hour once a month. A simple decision, followed by daily determination, is necessary.
10. Set a daily study time. Routine is very important. Treat it like an appointment that you cannot miss. Scheduling your study time first thing and then everything else around it is always best.
11. Soon you will notice that a desire to attend your study has developed and you will find it getting very enjoyable and much easier. Surprise!
12. Suddenly you may realize that you have missed your appointment for several days in a row and you may feel terrible about yourself. Disappointment may follow. Don't worry. Just pick up where you left off and stay in the flow. Regularity will develop over time. Always have grace with yourself in how much, or how often, you read the Bible. Don't be legalistic about it. Do it because you want to, not because you feel that you have to.