Just as in any project we undertake, getting the most out of the Bible requires certain tools. I suggest getting a good study Bible. His (mine now!) is a Zondervan NIV Study Bible. Remember that all Bible translations have been put into English from ancient texts. Some attempt to give the translation word-for-word (e.g. LSV, NASB), while other translations are in more modern language and context (e.g. NIV, NKJV, NLT). If you are wary of certain versions, check your favorite verse - does it make sense? Go familiar passages, such as John 3:16. Is the meaning the same as what you know?

An introduction at the beginning of each book is something to look for in a study Bible. That will tell about the author, the date of writing, to whom they were writing, and should give an outline of the book. A study Bible will also have good comments and explanations for many of the verses. Check for plenty of maps and a large concordance. A concordance is the section in the back of the Bible much like an index. It will list the references for the major times that a particular word is used.

The YouVersion Bible app is also a great tool to have. They provide countless translations, search tools and devotionals. They also include a "read to me" feature that is very helpful when you are in a book of the Bible which gives lists of names and places!