How to Begin Bible Journaling
Do you struggle to read God’s Word because it is too difficult? That’s normal for many people and something not to be ashamed or guilty about. So, how do you begin Bible Journaling? Make sure you check out this beginner’s guide to Bible journaling.
Even for scholars, Old Testament verses can be extremely daunting and hard for us to relate to in today’s world. In the past, you’ve probably wondered if you’d ever have a love and desire for God’s Word.
Fortunately for you, you can! Bible journaling can transform your Bible study time into a new experience you enjoy. If you’ve never heard of Bible journaling, please continue reading with this beginner’s guide to Bible reading.
What is Bible Journaling?
Many of us are visual people and can sometimes find ourselves lost and completely clueless about what we’ve been reading, especially about the Bible. That’s why so many people grow up and lose the desire to read: It’s not personal and enjoyable to them.
So how can we maintain our focus and reflect more easily at the end of what we’ve read? Many Christians today have found Bible art journaling to be a wonderful tool in helping them understand and study scripture.
Understanding Bible Journaling
Do you remember growing up as a kid and being captivated by the artistic illustrations in children’s storybooks? It’s okay to admit if you are still drawn to those stories. A journaling Bible is about connecting yourself with scripture and drawing closer to God more intimately.
It’s kind of like being able to draw your very own illustrated story of particular verses from the Bible, providing you with more meaning and understanding of what you’ve read. It doesn’t have to be pretty, and you don’t have to be an artist to do it.
Memorizing highlighted scripture and zooming in on circled keywords are also an important part of Bible journaling. Writing down your notes and thoughts as you read is also part of it.
How to Start Bible Journaling?
There’s no right or wrong way for you to get started on your Bible journaling, but here are several steps so that you can get the most out of the experience. After all, it’s about getting closer to the heart of God and applying his word to our daily lives.
Pray Over Scripture
Before you start reading a particular passage, pray that God reveals to you what his word is trying to teach you. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal more of himself and his heart as you read.
Read His Word and Study It
As you’re reading God’s word, make sure that your eyes aren’t starting to glaze over from a difficult passage. Every word is precious and is there for a reason. Study those particular verses and see how they can be applied to your life.
Let the Bible Art Begin
Now that you’ve prayed and poured over scripture, it’s time to let your Bible art journaling creativity start to flow.
- Circle any words that stand out to you and highlight particular verses that caught your eye.
- Write down any notes, thoughts, or prayers that the Holy Spirit also points out to you at this time.
- Draw or color a picture into the margin that helps tie it together.
- If you feel uncomfortable when you start, you can sketch it first with a pencil.
Memorizing and Reflecting
Once you’ve finished, take a look back at the verses that you have highlighted and commit them to memory. Also, reflect on your artwork and ask God to help you understand its meaning when you come across your Bible art later on down the road.
What Supplies are Needed and Where to Buy?
When you’re first starting, all you need is a Bible and a pen. It doesn’t matter what color of pen it is or what Bible version you own. But if you’re one for colorful and pretty pictures, there are also colored pencils, watercolor pencils, gel highlighters, paints, washi tapes, and stickers to brighten your pages. Here’s a look at a few of my favorites.
Highlighters
You will love these zebra zebrite double-ended highlighters that are fine-pointed, and you won’t have to worry about them bleeding over to the next page. You’ll also have plenty of colors to work with as you highlight scriptures that you want to memorize.
Watercolor Pencils
Watercolor pencils can help create beautiful and creative artwork that looks fantastic on the pages of your Bible. Derwent colored pencils are the way to go if you’re looking for the right brand.
Oil-like Pastels
Are you looking to add stunning color and beauty to your Bible’s artwork? I will tell you upfront that they are expensive, but a better understanding of God’s word while using the Faber-Castell Gelatos Colors Set will prove priceless.
Single Column Journaling Bible
I’d also recommend the ESV single-column journaling Bible as a go-to Bible that provides plenty of space for your notes, drawings, and prayers. It’s also an excellent translation that provides more clarity and understanding.
Where to Buy Bible Journals
All of these items that I recommend can be found at your local crafts store, whether it’s JOANN Fabrics and Crafts, Hobby Lobby, or Michaels. If you’re looking to purchase your supplies from the comfort of your home, Amazon has plenty of supplies to choose from for all your Bible journaling needs. This is an important part of starting your beginner’s guide to Bible journaling.
Is Bible Journaling Disrespectful?
Bible journaling can be seen as a form of self-expression and worship. Some people may see it as disrespectful, but that is not generally the intention of those who practice it. If you are interested in trying bible journaling, there are many resources available to help get you started. Some people choose to journal directly in their Bible, while others keep their Bible journal in a separate notebook or paper journal. Whatever you choose is your decision and all that matters is that you spend quality time worshipping God.
Bible journaling is a great way for you to hold that focus and an easier way to draw closer to God as you study His word. Here are some of the best journaling Bibles that offer several different preferences that fit your needs. What would you add to this beginner’s guide to bible journaling?
