Which version of the Word of God is best? Understanding the good Book about the Gospel of Jesus Christ; archaic language & reference Bibles; modern translations.

Tell me a good Bible translation to use in my Quiet Time

Choose a Bible translation that you can understand. But be sure it is an accurate translation.

The King James Version (KJV) has stood the test of time. It is all the English speaking world had for centuries. Because this is the translation that God allowed to be provided to so many for so long, many people feel that we should not depart from it. Its poetical beauty is unmatched by any other translation.

However, because of its archaic language, many people find the KJV difficult to understand in our day. There are several good translations available today.

The New King James Version (NKJV) is very similar to the KJV, retaining much of the poetical beauty and original form. But archaic words are updated, making it easier to comprehend.

The New International Version (NIV) is a personal favorite of mine. The New American Standard Version (NASB) is also a good translation. These two translations are easy to understand, yet they retain a formal beauty in language.

The Contemporary English Version (CEV) published by the American Bible Society is another good translation, written in a more everyday language.

If you choose to study from a translation other than the KJV, it is best to use a copy of the KJV alongside your other translation, so that you are always comparing with the translation that God has allowed to be the standard for so long.

There are many good study Bibles available today. See Online Resources for Your Quiet Time for reviews on some of these. My favorite study Bible is the traditional Thompson's Chain Reference Bible.

Click "Next" below for some ideas help you get started with a quiet time.