Many of us are afraid of joining another cult after just getting out of one.

Here's a safer setting that you may appreciate.

First, find a Christian to meet with for an hour or two.
Make appointments, confirm that you'll be there every week. Stay in touch with them.

Read through a book in the Bible, don't skip around. You need context and to get the big picture.
May I suggest the book of Matthew?

Here's how I study with a friend. Hope it helps you too.

1. First, he reads three verses. I read the next three. We cover about 21 verses.
2. Then I read the first three verses, he reads the next three etc.

   Now we've read through the verses twice. We've both read it and heard it read.

3. Now, he asks me a question. Say we're reading Matthew 13. He'll ask "what are the birds likened to".
4. So it's my turn to answer. First, I repeat back the question. This makes sure that I was listening. It helps make sure that I understand what he was asking. Also it helps me to answer his real question and not what I wish or think he is asking.
5. I search the scripture we've just read, and find the verse where the answer is. I quote the Book, chapter and vers and read the verse out loud. Then I give my answer based on what the Bible actually says, not what I think happened. Like, really? Was I there when Jesus preached the parable? I've got to read about it.
6. I ask him a question based on the verses we've read.
7. We keep going. Sometimes we break out into conversation, but it's all about edification, glorifying God, learning and understandings God's will.

If you read Matthew 13, you will find that unless you know and understand God's will, you will not last. All Christians face persecution. And you're going to fail if you don't understand God's will. Watch out for the cares of life, the persecution, the deceit of riches, not understanding God's will etc.