January TBR: Faith-Filled Reads to Deepen Your Bible Study in the New Year 📖☕

 January is the month of fresh starts, quiet mornings, and gentle rhythms. It’s when we naturally reach for intention instead of urgency and depth instead of noise. This year, my January To Be Read list is centred on one clear desire: learning how to read the Bible with understanding, curiosity, and a heart that’s truly engaged.

If you’re craving Bible study that feels meaningful instead of mechanical, this reading list might be exactly what your winter soul needs.

Why a Faith-Based January TBR?

The beginning of the year sets the tone. Rather than rushing through plans and goals, January invites us to slow down, build strong foundations, and ask better questions. These books focus on:

  • How to study Scripture with confidence

  • How to understand the Bible in context

  • How faith forms us deeply, not just intellectually

This is a stack for women who want growth without burnout and depth without pressure.

📘 No More Boring Bible Studies – Faith Womack



This book feels like a deep breath.

Faith Womack challenges the idea that Bible study has to feel overwhelming or dull. She encourages curiosity, honesty, and active engagement with Scripture instead of passive reading. This is an ideal starting point if you’ve ever opened your Bible and felt unsure where to begin.

Why it’s perfect for January:

  • Encouraging and accessible

  • Great for restarting a stalled Bible study habit

  • Focuses on transformation, not perfection

📖 Living by the Book – Howard G. Hendricks



A timeless classic for a reason.

Howard Hendricks teaches a clear, practical method for studying Scripture through observation, interpretation, and application. This approach slows you down and helps you see Scripture more clearly before jumping to meaning.

Why it belongs on your TBR:

  • Builds strong Bible study skills

  • Helps Scripture move from the page into daily life

  • Ideal for both beginners and seasoned readers


📚 How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth – Gordon Fee & Douglas Stuart



If you’ve ever felt confused by certain passages, this book is a gift.

Fee and Stuart explain how different genres of the Bible are meant to be read. Understanding whether you’re reading poetry, narrative, prophecy, or letters changes everything about interpretation.

Why it’s so helpful:

  • Adds clarity without stripping Scripture of meaning

  • Excellent for Old Testament understanding

  • Encourages thoughtful, respectful study



🌍 Seeking Allah Finding Jesus – Nabeel Qureshi



This book brings perspective and humility.

Nabeel Qureshi shares his journey from Islam to Christianity with honesty, compassion, and courage. It’s both intellectually engaging and emotionally moving, reminding us that faith is often costly and deeply personal.

Why it rounds out this list:

  • Strengthens understanding of belief and truth

  • Encourages empathy and bold faith

  • A powerful reminder of why Scripture matters


A Gentle January Reading Rhythm

You don’t need to read everything quickly. Try this cozy, sustainable rhythm:

  • Morning: Bible reading or journaling

  • Afternoon or evening: 10–20 pages from one book

  • Weekly reflection: What stood out? What questions surfaced?

Slow reading creates lasting roots 🌱

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