Why I Love The NLT
Over the years, I’ve read from many different Bible translations. Some were poetic, some were scholarly, and some felt very formal. But out of all of them, the New Living Translation (NLT) has become my absolute favorite. The reason? It’s the translation that has made me want to read the Bible more and more.
The Readability Factor
One of the most significant reasons I love the NLT is how incredibly readable and accessible it is. The Bible is full of deep truths, historical contexts, and complex ideas, and some translations make it feel like you need a theological degree just to understand a single passage. But the NLT takes those same profound messages and presents them in a way that is clear and engaging without losing the meaning of the original texts.
For example, compare these two versions of Philippians 4:6-7:
KJV: Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
NLT: Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.
Both versions convey the same truth, but the NLT makes it easier to understand and apply to everyday life. Instead of needing to interpret archaic phrases, I can simply absorb the message and act on it.
Breaking Down Complex Texts
One of the challenges I’ve faced with other translations is feeling like I needed to constantly cross-reference words, look up meanings, or even reread the same passage multiple times just to get a basic understanding. While studying deeper meanings is always valuable, sometimes I just want to read the Bible and connect with God without feeling like I’m decoding a mystery.
The NLT does a fantastic job of breaking down complicated phrases, obscure historical references, and cultural nuances so that modern readers can understand them without needing extensive background knowledge. It makes the Bible feel alive, relevant, and approachable.
Encouraging a Desire to Read More
I’ve found that when Scripture is difficult to understand, it can feel discouraging to read. If I’m struggling through passages, I’m less likely to want to keep going. But with the NLT, I find myself wanting to read more because it speaks so clearly to my heart. The more I read, the more I crave the Word. Instead of feeling like I’m slogging through dense text, I feel like I’m in a conversation with God—learning, growing, and deepening my faith.
Reading the Bible should never feel like a chore, and the NLT has helped eliminate that feeling for me. Instead, it feels like a personal invitation to draw closer to God and understand His will more clearly. I find that I read longer passages and revisit sections more often because I can truly grasp their meaning without frustration.
A Faithful and Thoughtful Translation
Some might worry that because the NLT is so readable, it sacrifices accuracy. But the translation process behind the NLT is incredibly rigorous. It was created by a team of 90 biblical scholars, working from the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts. While some translations focus on a word-for-word approach (which can sometimes feel rigid in English), the NLT follows a thought-for-thought method, ensuring that the true intent of Scripture is communicated clearly and faithfully.
It is not a paraphrase, as some may assume, but a deeply researched and scholarly translation that prioritizes both accuracy and clarity. For those who desire additional depth, many NLT editions include footnotes that provide literal translations, allowing readers to see a more direct rendering of key phrases when needed.
Why the NLT Stands Out for Me
Every time I pick up my NLT Bible, I feel like I’m reading a letter from God that speaks directly to my heart. It makes the Bible feel personal and relatable, which in turn strengthens my faith and encourages me to live out His teachings more fully. Additionally, the NLT has been a fantastic tool for introducing others to the Bible. I have recommended it to friends and family members who have struggled with more traditional translations, and they have all expressed how much easier and more engaging the NLT makes their reading experience.
Another thing I appreciate is how well the NLT works for different kinds of Bible study. Whether I’m doing daily devotionals, in-depth studies, or casual reading, it serves as a reliable, approachable, and spiritually enriching resource.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the most important thing is engaging with God’s Word and growing in our relationship with Him. For me, the NLT has been a powerful tool in deepening my understanding and love for Scripture. It has taken passages that once felt distant or confusing and made them come alive. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or discouraged trying to read the Bible, I highly encourage you to try the NLT. It just might change the way you experience God’s Word—just like it did for me.
What’s your favorite Bible translation? Have you tried the NLT? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Really enjoying the LSB, was typically a NASB reader, but LSB is my new go to.
I'm toot typically an ESV guy. I've been listening to the NASB 2020 this year for audio. I've enjoyed that!