Begin with prayer, read a manageable passage regularly, and listen for Christ within the whole story of salvation. Scripture is received in the Church, so personal reading grows alongside the liturgy, the fathers, trusted commentary, and the guidance of teachers.
What the Church teaches
The Bible is not a pile of disconnected quotations but the Spirit-inspired witness to God’s saving work, fulfilled in Christ. Read a passage in context: ask who speaks, to whom, where it stands in the book, and how the Church proclaims it. Difficult passages are invitations to humility, study, and conversation—not excuses to force a private meaning.
Live it this week
Start with Mark, reading one short section daily. Before reading say, “Speak, Lord, for Your servant hears”; afterward write one truth about Christ, one command to obey, and one question to bring to your local Sunday school.
When personal guidance matters
A commentary is a guide, not a replacement for Scripture; personal impressions are not automatically the Church’s teaching. Do not build a doctrine or major life decision on one isolated verse without context and wise counsel.
Sibhat prepared this original answer from the sources listed above. For personal or sacramental guidance, speak with your parish priest.