My 5 7 keys (I am a Christian):

1. First understand and accept that the Central Character is Jesus - note: Christ is not His last name as we normally look at a name stated as "Jesus Christ". "Christ" - means "the title, also treated as a name, given to Jesus of Nazareth"
2. Understand and accept that the Central Theme or Story is about where and how the world came from and why and where it will go or become - a mixture of "mystery" about the past, history as recorded or told by God, and prophesies.
3. Be careful to distinguish and discern between literal statements, allegories, parables, and history - history can be verified. Note: only mathematics and logic can be proven - not science or history, let alone prophesies.
4. Understand, accept and believe that what is in the Holy Bible is either true or false - there is no shades of truth. With that said, the Holy Bible has survived thousands of years of scrutiny and challenges. But, as in the Holy Bible - it is written: every man is wise in his own eyes. So will you and I be - wise in our own eyes. So, set that idea aside before you start reading the Holy Bible.
5. The Holy Bible was written by men, inspired by God. It is written for all people and all generations. Therefore, the language is understandable to anyone with just a little education - the purpose of how it was written. Because of that, when reading the Holy Bible, don't let the simple language and words lead you to think that the content and messages are simple - quite the opposite. This means: Do not read it like a novel! Do not read it only once! Do not read it from front to back like most other books or writing - they are not necessarily in the order that we should read - there are many cross references and books are not always in chronological order because that is not possible.
6. The Holy Bible talks about and have answers to all aspects of this world, human life, past present and future. It is in there - prophesies are still being fulfilled and becoming true / verified. We are in the end times.
7. The Holy Bible is the Word of God - written by chosen men - to call people to Him and receive Salvation and Eternal Life through the Sacrifice and the Blood of Jesus, AMEN!