If you love scripture and you love creativity, (and if you’re reading this post!) you’ve probably considered jumping on the bandwagon of bible journaling. But where do you start!? And what’s really necessary to get started?
You don’t actually need a special journaling bible to start.
In fact, It might be BEST to start with a blank journal along side your regular bible. During your regular daily bible reading time, use your journal to note a verse that really resonated with you. Then after your reading time is done, or whenever, grab whatever supplies you have on hand. Simply write out your verse or practice different hand-writing techniques. Doodle around your text and add some color if you’d like! Grab some stickers, washi, paper scraps, markers, etc. and enjoy meditating on the verse while you experiment.
Photo by @kittywittypapercraft on Instagram
Once you have your journaling bible, start simple!
Once you’ve purchased your journaling bible (Crossway makes single column bibles that are great), start with just a pen! Pigma Micron 01 ink pens by Sakura are perfect. Journal your response to a passage, rewrite a key verse, or doodle a bit. The fresh blank margins of a new bible can be intimidating, so take you time and just get comfortable! Set aside any expectations you have….it doesn’t have to be perfect, it just needs to be a reflection of your time in God’s word. At the end of the day, the goal is God’s word sinking deep into your heart and sweet fellowship with your Heavenly Father.
Photo by @maker_mom on Instagram
Pick a medium that you feel comfortable with.
Once you’re comfortable in your new bible, pick a medium that’s not scary to you. Colored pencils are wonderful to start with…they’re mess free, easy to use, and don’t bleed at all! Maybe you love stamps or love to draw with pencils. And if you’re not comfortable with any medium, start with washi, stickers, or paper embellishments! You don’t need to be artistic to dive in.
You’re bible journaling!
Hey guess what!? If you’ve put pen to paper you’re officially bible journaling! You’ve made it past the hardest part…just getting started. Now the possibilities are endless. You can explore new techniques and products little by little as you feel inspired and enjoy that sweet spot where a heart for God and a love of creativity meet!
bible journaling by @kittywittypapercraft on Instagram