There’s something truly special about spending time in God’s Word—not just reading it, but allowing it to take root and live deeply in our hearts (Colossians 3:16).

In recent years, Bible journaling has emerged as a creative and personal way to connect with Scripture. Journaling Bibles with wide margins encourage us to slow down, reflect, and express our thoughts through words, doodles, paint, or color.

Maybe you’ve seen stunning Bible pages online—florals in watercolor, intricate hand lettering, full-page illustrations—and felt a little overwhelmed. I have too. While I love the beauty and artistry others share, my own Bible journaling looks very different.

Years ago, I came across a simple meme that made me pause. It featured a well-worn Bible, and a quote often attributed to Charles Spurgeon: “A Bible that’s falling apart usually belongs to someone who isn’t.” That idea stuck with me.

Since the 90s, I used the same the same Bible. For the first couple of decades, it stayed mostly neat and pristine—just a few favorite verses underlined in yellow. But over time, I began marking key passages, writing notes in the margins, circling promises, defining words, and adding little prayers.

Then a few years ago, I transitioned to a new journaling Bible—one with space to be more creative. That Bible has since been color-coded, doodled in, and filled with reflections and prayers.

My Bible may not be “Instagram-worthy,” but to me, it’s priceless. It tells the story of my walk with the Lord—through joys, sorrows, questions, and praise. It’s a living record of how Scripture has spoken to me over the years, and it draws me back to God’s heart again and again.

Bible journaling isn’t about being impressive. It’s about being intentional. It’s about engaging with Scripture in a way that feels meaningful to you. Whether you color, write, highlight, or just pause and pray, the goal is to spend time in God’s presence, listening for His voice.

Jesus said: “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!” —Luke 11:28 (ESV)

Your Next Step

If you’ve ever wanted to start Bible journaling but weren’t sure how—take heart. You don’t need fancy supplies or artistic confidence. Just a Bible, a pen, and an open heart.

Throughout this year, tune in on Thursdays for ideas on color-coding your Bible during our mini Bible studies. If you’re excited to try this creative way of engaging with Scripture, be sure to subscribe to the blog so you don’t miss what’s coming next.

Let’s treasure His Word—together.

Disclosure: Scriptures marked ESV are taken from the THE HOLY BIBLE, ENGLISH STANDARD VERSION (ESV): Scriptures taken from THE HOLY BIBLE, ENGLISH STANDARD VERSION ® Copyright© 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission.