Your First Seven Days in the Bible
Start with seven short readings from Mark. Each day includes a question, a prayer prompt and one practical response.
How to use this plan
Set aside ten to fifteen minutes each day and choose a Bible translation you can understand. Read the passage slowly, then read it again. Notice who is present, what happens and what Jesus says or does. The questions below are prompts for reflection rather than a test with a required answer.
This plan samples seven passages from Mark; it does not cover the entire Gospel. If you miss a day, continue where you stopped. You can use a printed Bible or a Bible app of your choice.
Day 1 — Jesus invites people to follow
Read: Mark 1:14–20.
Reflect: What message does Jesus announce, and how do the first disciples respond? What might it mean to begin following him in your own life?
Pray: Ask God to help you understand Jesus and respond honestly.
Practise: Write down one question you want to explore this week.
Day 2 — Compassion and prayer
Read: Mark 1:29–39.
Reflect: What do Jesus’ care for people and his time in prayer show you about his priorities?
Pray: Bring someone’s need to God and ask how you can show care.
Practise: Make a little quiet space for prayer today.
Day 3 — Forgiveness and a fresh start
Read: Mark 2:1–12.
Reflect: What surprises the people in this story? What does the passage say about Jesus’ authority?
Pray: Speak honestly to God about your need for forgiveness.
Practise: Consider one situation where you need to take responsibility or make amends.
Day 4 — Listening and growing
Read: Mark 4:1–20.
Reflect: What helps or hinders the seed’s growth in Jesus’ story? What distractions make it difficult for you to listen?
Pray: Ask for a receptive heart and patience to grow.
Practise: Choose a realistic time for your next Bible reading.
Day 5 — Who do you say Jesus is?
Read: Mark 8:27–35.
Reflect: How does Jesus connect his identity with the cost of following him? What do you find encouraging or challenging?
Pray: Bring both your confidence and your questions to God.
Practise: Discuss one question with a trusted Christian.
Day 6 — Love God and your neighbour
Read: Mark 12:28–34.
Reflect: What does Jesus place at the centre of faithful living? How might this change an ordinary decision today?
Pray: Ask for help to love God and the people around you.
Practise: Choose one small, concrete act of kindness.
Day 7 — The cross and resurrection
Read: Mark 15:33–39 and Mark 16:1–8.
Reflect: What do these passages tell you about Jesus’ death and the announcement of his resurrection? What questions remain?
Pray: Thank God for the hope Christians find in Jesus.
Practise: Decide on your next reading step and someone with whom you can learn.
Where to go next
Continue reading Mark from the beginning, a short section at a time, or begin John’s Gospel. Read with a local church or a trusted Christian who welcomes questions. Keep notes on what the passage says, what you do not understand and one thoughtful response.
Explore who Christians believe Jesus is, the message of salvation, and habits for growing in faith.
Keep learning with us
Explore all resources or contact the team with your questions.