7 Easy Bible Journaling Ideas for Beginners to Start Today

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Bible journaling is a beautiful way to connect spiritually, creatively, and emotionally with the Word of God. For many beginners, though, opening a Bible and knowing how to start journaling can feel overwhelming. Do you need fancy art skills? Special supplies? Or just a quiet heart?

The good news: Bible journaling is for everyone—no matter your artistic level. It’s not about perfection; it’s about expression and deepening your walk with God. In this post, we’ll explore 7 easy Bible journaling ideas for beginners that are simple, meaningful, and totally doable—even if you’re not “artsy.”

Let’s dive in and discover how you can start your own Bible journaling journey today!

1. Verse Mapping

Verse mapping is a powerful method that combines journaling with Bible study. It’s perfect for beginners who want to go deeper into understanding scripture.

  • Choose a verse that speaks to you
  • Write it out in your journal
  • Break it down by highlighting keywords
  • Define those keywords using a dictionary or concordance
  • Note what the verse means in context and how it applies to your life

Why It Works

Verse mapping helps you meditate on scripture without needing any artistic skills. It encourages reflection and builds your biblical knowledge.

2. Word Study Pages

A word study focuses on one word from the Bible—such as “grace,” “faith,” or “hope”—and explores its meaning through scripture references.

  • Pick a word that God has placed on your heart
  • Use a concordance or online Bible app to find verses with that word
  • Write down a few key verses
  • Reflect on how the word is used and what God is teaching you through it

Perfect for Reflection

This idea brings clarity to the themes God may be highlighting in your life right now. It’s a gentle way to start journaling consistently.

3. Simple Doodles and Icons

Not an artist? No worries! Simple doodles or icons—like hearts, crosses, flowers, or arrows—can enhance your journaling without being complicated.

  • Use a pencil, pen, or colored markers
  • Add icons next to important verses
  • Draw symbols in the margins to reflect what you’re feeling or learning
  • Try using stamps or stickers if drawing isn’t your thing

Low-Pressure Creativity

These visual elements help bring the page to life and make journaling more engaging without needing advanced skills.

4. Gratitude Scripture Lists

One of the easiest ways to journal is by listing things you’re thankful for, paired with scripture.

  • Title a page “Gratitude + Scripture”
  • List 3–5 things you’re thankful for that day
  • Match each item with a corresponding Bible verse
  • Add a short prayer or reflection

Builds Positive Perspective

Combining gratitude and scripture journaling helps shift your focus to God’s faithfulness and blessings.

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5. Highlight + Reflect Method

This minimalist journaling method requires no supplies beyond a highlighter and pen.

  • Highlight a verse that speaks to you
  • Write it down in your journal
  • Reflect by answering:
    • What is God saying to me?
    • How does this apply to my life?
    • What action can I take?

Great for Busy Days

It’s quick, easy, and effective—perfect for days when you’re short on time but still want to stay connected.

6. Illustrated Prayers

Turn your prayers into visual expressions. This idea combines faith and creativity beautifully.

  • Write your prayer to God in your journal
  • Use decorative lettering, borders, or simple drawings
  • Highlight prayer requests, praises, and answered prayers
  • Add scripture that aligns with your prayer

Deepens Emotional Connection

Seeing your prayers visually expressed can make them feel more intimate and powerful. It also creates a visual record of your spiritual growth.

7. Use Printables or Templates

If the blank page intimidates you, printables and journaling templates are a game changer.

  • Download free Bible journaling templates online
  • Use them to guide your study, doodling, or verse reflection
  • Look for layouts with prompts, lines, and decorative borders
  • Tape or glue them into your journal or Bible

Beginner-Friendly Support

Templates take away the pressure of designing a page from scratch. They provide structure while still allowing for personal touches.

Conclusion

Bible journaling doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating. Whether you’re a writer, doodler, or reflector, there’s a style that fits you. The most important thing is creating space to hear from God and respond with your whole heart.

To recap, here are the 7 easy Bible journaling ideas for beginners:

  • Verse Mapping
  • Word Study Pages
  • Simple Doodles and Icons
  • Gratitude Scripture Lists
  • Highlight + Reflect Method
  • Illustrated Prayers
  • Use of Printables or Templates

Start with one that speaks to you and give yourself grace to grow in the process.

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