The King James Version or the New King James Version is regarded as a translation that stays very close to the original intent and meaning of the original Greek.
The New International Version is cast in the English language of today, so many prefer it.
The English Standard Version is regarded as a bit more rigorous than the King Jame Version. It is a good reference.
For some issues, I check the Amplified version. It is not so much a translation as an interpretation. But it can be very helpful.
It is not that difficult to arrive at an understanding of the word of God by checking various versions. Occasionally, I will look at a Greek/English version to get a sense of the original text. Often, this will clear up some fuzziness in the English version. A particular case of this is the doctrine based on the Greek petros and petra being equal in their English translation. The problem is that it becomes obvious they are not equal when the Greek/English bible is consulted.
Then it is helpful to read a commentary or two. They bring out more ideas that I can use to understand a passage. If commentaries differ, I can think about what would be the best understanding. Sermons are also helpful.
As one or the other translation says, “Study to show yourself approved, being able to give a defense of your belief.” (My version) The idea is to put some effort into understanding doctrine. As in, “Hunger and thirst after righteousness.”
After doing these things, one can have a very good idea of what the word of God says.
Yep. I like the New King James Version and am quite fond of the NIV. I often compare the two of them when reading and find no difference in meaning.