Faith and self-expression intertwine beautifully in the life of a Christian, and journal Bibles are one of the most powerful tools in her arsenal. For the modern woman seeking a deep, meaningful spiritual connection with their Saviour, the best journal Bible serves as an easy way to engage with Scripture. These Bibles combine the translations you love with elegant design and thoughtful printing to leave space for reflection, prayer, and artful expression.
As we explore the different types of Bible journals you can find, we’ll talk about what makes each special. We’ll also cover how to choose the best Bible journal for you and touch briefly upon how to make the most of this form of Bible study. If you’re ready to learn more about immersing yourself in God’s Word with a beautiful journal Bible, keep reading!
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What is a Journal Bible or a Bible Journal?
In common terms, a journal Bible is a printing of the Holy Scripture with margins, blank pages, or otherwise designated space for expression. Available in various styles, there are journals ideal for artists and those perfect for meticulous note-takers. As a whole, these Bibles encourage readers to engage with the Word in a long-term, focused interaction. For many who practice, this allows for a deep connection with the Word due to the power of visual and written reflection.
Note: Read our basics of Bible journaling guide to learn more about this creative form of worship.
Criteria for Choosing the Perfect Journal Bible
Each of us is given a unique set of gifts from our God. Thus, it makes sense that there’s a wide variety of journal Bibles on the market suited to different tastes and practice styles. When first starting with a Bible journal, consider the following:
- Translation: Select your favorite version or a translation for your study goals.
- Layout: The most common design is wide margins, with both lined and unlined versions available. Blank pages and dot-grid journals are other styles to consider.
- Paper Quality: Opt for thick pages if you plan on using inks, watercolors, and other art mediums that may bleed.
- Cover Style: The cover of your journal Bible is essential considering the longevity of the project; choose one that resonates with you in a built-to-last material.
Top 7 Journal Bibles for the Creative Christian Woman
Here, we’ve gathered a collection of 9 journal Bibles for starting your practice. We’ll cover the basic details of each Bible and note the features you’ll be looking for with each. Keep in mind that this is not an extensive collection of all the high-quality Bible journals available but one that is accessible to help you get started.
Note: All prices are current September 9th, 2024, and rounded up to the nearest dollar. Purchases made through Amazon links in this post help support our blog at no additional cost to you.
KJV Journal the Word Bible – $20
This beautiful hardcover journal Bible features plenty of space in the lined margins for self-expression and note-taking. Set in an easily readable font, this KJV Bible journal features premium Bible paper for minimal bleeding. The words of Christ are colored red. This Bible has a durable black hardcover construction and features built-in ribbon markers.
Frequently available on sale for $20, this KJV journal Bible is an ideal pick for those new to Bible journaling. Take comfort in the familiar translation and find joy in expressing yourself on these cleanly laid-out pages. The layout of this journal Bible gives your notes, art, and reflections space to breathe without making the Scripture unreadable.
Purchase the KJV Journal the Word Bible on Amazon.
ESV Single Column Journaling Bible – $26
For those with a creative spirit, this ESV journal Bible is ideal! Bound in a pristine cream-white hardcover, this Bible journal features a durable, customizable blank canvas. Adorn the front of your Bible with beautiful art, scrapbooking, color, and whatever your heart desires.
This ESV Bible journal is an Amazon favorite with over 1,400 reviews and a 4.8 star rating. With a single ribbon marker and wide, ruled margins on each page, it has many of the features that regular journalers love. The Lexicon type may be a bit on the small side for some readers, but the layout of the Bible comes together to create a classic feel. This journal Bible makes the perfect fit for those who want to blend studying and art on their spiritual journey.
Purchase the ESV Single Column Journaling Bible on Amazon.
NIV, Beautiful Word Bible – $29
The NIV Beautiful Word Bible is a unique take on Bible journaling with rave reviews and a dedicated fanbase. This journal Bible is unique in that it features over 600 illustrations of verses in full color, built-in inspiration for the budding Bible journaler. This gorgeous representation of the beloved NIV translation is perfect for the beginner!
Featuring wide margins with space for journaling and thick, high-quality paper, this journal Bible is designed for absolute creativity. The words of Jesus appear in red, and the font provides excellent readability throughout. Peel and stick Bible tabs give you even more ways to express yourself!
This is the journal Bible I personally use to study the Word and grow closer to our Lord! I love the large text and the illustrations, which bring me so much joy.
Purchase the NIV Beautiful Word Bible on Amazon.
KJV Holy Bible, Note-taking Bible – $24
With over 1,000 reviews and a 4.8 star rating on Amazon, this beautiful KJV journal Bible is created by a small business and fit for every type of Bible journaler. With a durable faux leather cover in pink decorated in gold-foil, this Bible is an artist’s dream. 2-inch wide margins provide plenty of space for your notes, prayers, and illustrations.
This KJV Bible also features two ribbon markers, a one-year Bible reading plan, and a themed verse finder to aid in your study. The printing is large enough to easily read without overwhelming the space you’ll need for your creative expressions.
Purchase the KJV Holy Bible, Note-taking Bible on Amazon.
ESV Journaling Bible – $29
Bound in striking blue faux leather with cream paper, this ESV Bible journal is a wonderful choice for starting your Bible journal practice. With standard 2-inch margins for all your reflections and artistry, this ESV translation also features introductions for each book in the Scripture.
This Bible is laid out in classic fashion, with plenty of space for your study. The sole black ribbon marker ensures that you will never lose your place. While the 7-point font may be too small for some readers, it allows the Bible overall to be smaller and easier to carry around – perfect for those who journal on the go.
Purchase the ESV Journaling Bible on Amazon.
NIV, Journal the Word Bible – $22
Another lovely NIV Journal the Word Bible, this double-column format is another perfect journal Bible for those who love to take the Word with them. The thick cream paper is wrapped in a hardcover binding of mint decorated with an illustration of leaves.
This study Bible features only lightly ruled lines on its extra wide margin, making art stand out even more against the word. The typeface is set in 8 point font for easier reading, and the words of Christ are in red.
Purchase the NIV, Journal the Word Bible on Amazon.
CSB She Reads Truth Bible – $25
This CSB She Reads Truth Bible is the perfect Bible for the modern woman looking to delve deep into the Word of God. Bound in a beautiful beige faux leather, this Bible is durable and designed for daily use. With a single column layout and plain typeface it’s an easy read and leaves plenty of space for your reflections and aristry.
With over 180 devotionals and over 100 full-color illustrations and resources, this Bible is supplemented to help increase your understanding. This printing features detailed introductions for each book of the Bible as well as a one-year reading plan.
Purchase the CSB She Reads Truth Bible on Amazon.
How to Use Your Journal Bible Effectively
Fully utilizing the potential of your Bible journal is key to sticking with your new habit. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your new Bible journal:
- Create a Routine: Building a regular habit of Bible journaling is rewarding and allows you to draw closer to the Word.
- Read and Reflect: As you read the Scripture, write down questions, inspiration, personal stories, and notes as a springboard for further study.
- Incorporate Prompts: If you’re stuck or need inspiration, use journaling prompts as a starting point.
- Weave in Prayer: Your first journal Bible is a wonderful place to write out your prayers and create a living, breathing record of your love of God.
As always, what matters most is that you find yourself growing closer to God with your practice. There’s no right or wrong way to engage with the Scripture! Find resources, inspirations, and methods that work for the way you worship our God.
The Power of A Journal Bible
A Bible journal is a powerful way to engage with Scripture. By combining the timeless wisdom of beloved Bible translations with ample room for creativity, these Bibles become powerful tools for any stage of one’s spiritual journey. By carefully choosing the right journal Bible, you make a commitment to growing deeper in your faith.
When you approach Bible journaling with an open heart and mind, you can find yourself walking down a path that leads you closer to Jesus each day. The habits and heartfelt messages you find as you practice writing in a journal Bible will bring God’s beauty into your life in joyful, vibrant ways.
Regardless of whether you’re an experienced reader of the Bible or just starting out, remember that your goal is connection – not perfection. Let your journal Bible become an organic, beautiful space where you can be honest with God. As your vulnerabilities, deepest prayers, and creative vision fill the pages, you create a glorious testament to your journey of faith.
If you’re ready to create a living legacy of your love of God, grab your favorite pens and open your heart. The adventure of Bible journaling is just the start of a brand new way to engage with God’s law. Your story awaits in the pages of your new journal Bible, ready to unfold in God’s loving embrace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my artistic additions damage the Bible?
The majority of journal Bibles are designed with special paper that can withstand various art mediums. However, always check the product description before buying a Bible journal. Additionally, when trying new art materials for the first time, the best practice is to first test them in an inconspicuous area, such as the back page or a blank page you designate for the purpose. Use specially formulated Bible-safe pens, highlighters, and markers whenever possible.
How does journaling enhance Bible study?
There is plenty of evidence to support that writing helps us read more effectively – and who doesn’t want to read the Bible more effectively? Journaling encourages you to engage with God’s Word in new ways that promote deeper reflection, personal application, and can even spur interest in deeper theological topics (such as studying different translations of the Bible.)
Another benefit of using a journal Bible is that you create a visual and written record of your journey. As you grow spiritually and deepen your study of the Bible, revisiting your past experiences and potentially sharing them with others can lead to new avenues of understanding the Scripture.
Can I use a journal Bible for group study?
Yes, your journal Bible is an excellent tool for group study! The extra margins make it a wonderful choice for taking notes during discussions and going back later to reflect with visuals, prayers, and personal insights.
