It's always a tough call when choosing which Bible translation to pick for your private reading. Sometimes you can't help but think about the possibility that the original meaning might get lost in translation, or something like that. Especially when you're reading Bible verses by topic, it's important that you're getting the closest possible translation from the original text.

Translators face a lot of different problems when translating Bible verses by subject. For instance, do they translate literally or accurately? Both of which have the capacity to lose the original meaning and intent of the Bible verses.

Here are some tips when choosing your Bible translations:

1. Read more than one Bible translation

No matter how you put it, the translator's own theological biases and perspective would inevitably show in the text, leading to taking things out of context or misunderstanding of the Bible verses on your part.

For this reason, always keep at least two different Bible translations on hand for consultation whenever you feel the need to. One should be a literal translation and the other leaning more towards thought-for-thought.

2. Be careful with literal translations, though

A literal translation of the Bible takes a little bit more time to read due to some of the awkward workings that tend to pop up here and there as a result of the literal translation. So Bible students and private readers should always be careful about using these translations, though they can be very helpful at times.

3. Also refer to freer translations

Freer translations are the exact opposite of literal translations. Freer translations aim to convey the original weight and meaning of the Bible verses as much as possible, at the expense of having use a different style of language and literary style.

It is possible to miss out on a lot of the original flavor when it comes to freer translations, but at least you're guaranteed the correct meaning of the Biblical text.

Consider these three tips when choosing a Bible translation for your own private reading. Hopefully you'll find the right translation that fits your style of comprehension the most.