How to Start Bible Journaling: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
If you’ve ever felt drawn to combine your spiritual growth with creativity, Bible journaling might be exactly what your soul needs. This beautiful practice merges Bible study with art, offering a meaningful way to connect deeper with God’s Word while expressing your creativity.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to start Bible journaling—even if you’re not artistic. We’ll cover what Bible journaling is, the supplies you’ll need, how to choose scriptures, and ideas to get you started. Whether you’re new to faith journaling or looking for inspiration to refresh your practice, this post has you covered.
What Is Bible Journaling?
Bible journaling is a creative process that involves reflecting on Scripture by writing notes, prayers, or creating visual artwork in your Bible or separate journal. It can be as simple as jotting down thoughts or as elaborate as painting watercolor scenes alongside scripture.
Why People Love Bible Journaling:
- It helps you engage deeply with Scripture
- Encourages consistent quiet time with God
- Allows for creative expression of faith
- Serves as a personal spiritual record
Bible journaling is not about being perfect—it’s about being present with the Word.
Step 1: Choose Your Bible Journaling Format
There are two main ways to Bible journal, and choosing one depends on your comfort level and style.
Option 1: Journaling in a Bible
Use a journaling Bible with wide margins, designed specifically for notes and art. These Bibles often have thicker pages to hold ink and paint.
Pros:
- Keeps everything in one place
- Makes your Bible deeply personal
Cons:
- Permanent entries
- Might feel intimidating for beginners
Option 2: Using a Separate Journal
If writing or drawing directly in your Bible feels overwhelming, start with a faith journal.
Pros:
- More freedom
- Room for longer entries or layered art
Cons:
- Separate from your Bible reading
Step 2: Gather Your Bible Journaling Supplies
You don’t need a lot to get started, but having the right tools can help make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Bible Journaling Supplies:
- A journaling Bible or notebook
- Pens (preferably no-bleed or archival quality)
- Colored pencils or highlighters
- Sticky notes or tabs for marking pages
Optional Creative Tools:
- Washi tape
- Watercolor paints or brush pens
- Stamps and ink pads
- Stickers or printables
Start simple and gradually build your toolkit as you discover your style.
Step 3: Choose a Bible Verse or Theme
If you’re not sure where to begin, choose a verse that speaks to you personally, or start with a theme like gratitude, faith, peace, or courage.
Bible Verse Ideas for Beginners:
- Philippians 4:6-7 – Peace through prayer
- Jeremiah 29:11 – Trusting God’s plan
- Psalm 46:10 – Stillness and surrender
- Proverbs 3:5-6 – Faith and direction
Once you’ve chosen your verse, read it slowly and reflect on what it means to you. Ask God to speak to your heart through the passage.
Step 4: Reflect, Write, or Create
Now it’s time to journal! There’s no right or wrong way—just let your heart lead.
Ways to Bible Journal:
- Write a prayer based on the verse
- Summarize the scripture in your own words
- Highlight key phrases and what they mean to you
- Draw illustrations or doodles that represent the passage
- Use color coding to categorize themes (e.g., promises, commands, encouragement)
Whether you prefer writing or visual art, the goal is the same: engage deeply with God’s Word.
Step 5: Make It a Habit
Consistency is key to making Bible journaling part of your spiritual growth. Create a routine that fits your lifestyle—whether it’s 10 minutes a day or one hour each weekend.
Tips to Build a Bible Journaling Habit:
- Set a journaling time (morning quiet time, evening wind-down, etc.)
- Create a cozy, quiet space free from distractions
- Join a Bible journaling group online or in person for support
- Keep a list of verses or themes to explore in the future
Step 6: Embrace Imperfection and Grow
You don’t have to be an artist or a theologian to start Bible journaling. The beauty is in the process, not the product. Allow yourself to explore without pressure, and watch how God meets you in your creative time.
Remember:
- It’s okay if pages look “messy”
- There are no mistakes in heartfelt worship
- Your journal is between you and God—make it yours
Conclusion
Starting Bible journaling is one of the most beautiful and enriching ways to combine faith and creativity. With just a few simple tools, a heart open to God, and a bit of quiet space, you can begin a powerful spiritual practice that transforms your quiet time into something sacred and soul-nourishing.
Whether you choose to write, doodle, paint, or reflect—let your Bible journaling journey draw you closer to God and give you a new appreciation for His Word.
