Years ago I searched and searched for a Bible with wide margins to write in. I was so disappointed at how few options there were. Now journaling Bibles are everywhere, but they are definitely not all created equal.
The newest Bible I had the pleasure of reviewing comes from Thomas Nelson. I love journaling Bibles because I think they are an excellent way to interact with what you are reading. I see a lot of people painting and coloring in theirs. However, that is far from the only way to enjoy them.
I have one that I read through and write in the margins prayers for my family. Another idea is as you read daily, keep a prayer list and record answered prayers. You could write the things you're thankful for or how the Lord is blessing you. It's a great way to journal as you read.
I am not a fan of tissue thin pages, tiny print and a frail cover and in these areas, this Bible delivers.
- This Bible is solid. The cover is heavy duty and looks like it could endure the various trials I put my Bibles through (spilled coffee, sticky baby hands...)
- The cream pages are soft but relatively thick for a Bible. They don't do great with really wet markers or highlighters, but if you stick to a drier pen or pencil they hold up well.
- This Bible is considered large print (10-pt). I really appreciate how easy it is to read, even in low light.
- The margins are wide and lined, with ample space to write or draw.
- There is a nice little ribbon to mark your page.
- The whole things closes with an elastic band, keeping all my random bookmarks, shoved pens and church bulletins (mostly) neatly contained.
- It lays flat when opened and doesn't constantly flop closed. This is important to me, as I usually read on the couch or in bed.
- Personally, I like that this Bible is a little classier and doesn't have a bunch of additional coloring features or pictures. There are a lot of other journaling Bibles out there that come with various decorative stuff in them already. The lack of "pretties" makes this Bible perfect for men or women.
- While this is a NKJV this same Bible comes in KJV too
This Bible is very simple in that there are no additional study notes, maps or concordances. Study Bibles are an awesome resource and lifelong companion. If your looking for something along those lines, I have a study Bible from Thomas Nelson that I have used for years and love. This Bible is different but still great.
Another great thing about this Bible? I was sent two! One to review and one to giveaway to a reader. Here's how to enter-- Go to the comment section and tell me one of your favorite verses or books of the Bible. One person will be randomly selected December 11th. US residents only please and 18+ years old! Now Closed :)
(Thanks to Thomas Nelson and BlogAbout for providing me with these two copies. All opinions expressed are my own.)
I love all the Psalms! Thank you for your generosity!
ReplyDeleteI love the Psalms too Darlene! I feel like in any season, times of joy or times of pain, there are Psalms that God uses in my life.
DeleteMatthew 6:25-34. I neeeeed to remember that my hope and my trust is in the faithfulness of my Heavenly Father. It's hard not to worry all the time. I often get a pit in my stomach just thinking about my list of things, or money, or future. This verse reminds me that my priorities should be in seeking my Father and help put my heart at ease.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite book of the Bible currently is the book of acts.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite part of Acts is reading about Paul's conversion. Such a great book of the Bible!
DeleteI *love* the book of Ephesians. The book of Matthew is a favorite as well since I memorized it in high school (yes, the whole thing) for Bible quizzing. jenndiggy at gmail dot com
ReplyDeleteWow Jennifer! Do you still remember parts of it? I love reading the book of Ephesians too- I have so many highlighted and underlined verses there. Ephesians 4:17-19 is a verse that I pray for my kids and myself!
Delete"that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height— to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God."
Lamentations 3:22 - 26 ❤️
ReplyDeleteCame across this passage in my devotions the other day and it was just what I needed! This Bible looks beautiful!
This is a great verse! Set in the context of the deep anguish of this book, this verse really shines out as a ray of hope.
DeleteActs 10:34-35
ReplyDeleteGentiles Hear the Good News
34 So Peter opened his mouth and said: “Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, 35 but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him.
Great verse Kim, I'm so thankful that God gives me an inheritance, and that the gospel is for everyone!
Delete1 Corinthians 10:12-13New International Version (NIV)
ReplyDelete12 So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! 13 No temptation[a] has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted[b] beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted,[c] he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.
Great verse Michelle! In my Bible I have "but God is faithful" underlined three times, what a promise!
DeleteThis has been my favorite verse for a long time. I have given it to friends going through trials and in need of hope.
DeleteI like John 3:16 that is my favorite Bible verse.
ReplyDeleteA awesome verse Susan! I love verse 17 too-- "For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved."
Delete1 Corinthians 13:1-13--all of it. It is so important to show God's love to everyone we meet!
ReplyDeleteSuch an important chapter Missa! SO thankful for a God who shows us the purest example of love and his word that reminds us how to live!
DeleteMy favorite verse is Matthew 7:1-3-Judge not, that ye be not judged. I grew up on this verse and practice it each and everyday.
ReplyDeleteLaurie Emerson
Verse three is such a convicting verse for me-- Instead of having a critical spirit towards others, if I spent that time examining my own heart and problems, so much more change would happen!
DeleteThank you for the giveaway! This is my favorite bible verse. It is especially inspiring to hear when I am struggling with different circumstances. Philippians 4:13 "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
ReplyDeleteA great verse Michele! I love that whole passage in Philippians. I struggle with being content sometimes, looking for the next season in life or being unhappy in circumstances. Paul knew what it was to suffer and be in need yet he felt content because of his position in Christ.
DeleteOne of my favorites is Proverbs 3:5-6. Lately it is a great reminder. Thanks for the opportunity to try out an journaling bible❤️
ReplyDeleteThis is a great verse and a huge challenge! My heart desires to have the Lord direct my paths, but it feels more practical to just do what seems right to me.
DeleteMy favorite is: but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31
ReplyDeleteI LOVE this verse and the book of Isaiah! This passage of scripture was one that I memorized and thought about while I was in labor with my babies.
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ReplyDeleteIsaiah 40 is my favorite.
ReplyDelete1 Corinthians 16:13
ReplyDeleteBe on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.