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Welcome to My Journaling Bible: heART in the margins

Welcome to My Journaling Bible: heART in the margins | The inside scoop Q & A style about this new movement sweeping the margins of Bibles everywhere...and how you can use art to engage with scripture in a new and exciting way!

There’s an artistic movement sweeping the margins of Bibles everywhere.  And I’m joining in.

Honesty Moment

Now, before we go any further, I wanted to acknowledge that some of you may find the Bible offensive.  Or maybe you have an aversion to it for whatever reason.  Or maybe you want to get into reading it, but it’s a struggle to understand or even believe.

That’s okay.

We’re all unique people at different points in our life journey, and I won’t judge you for that.  That’s not what this is about.

Plus, who am I to judge?  I’m a hot mess when it comes to my relationship with God.  Seriously.  For example: I’ve got major control issues stemming from a lack of faith, and I’ve always struggled with false guilt about not sticking with a regular routine of Bible reading.

But one thing I’m learning right now is that if you look closely at scripture and how Jesus spent his time on earth, He actually hung out with the hot messes a whole lot more than the religious leaders.  He didn’t ask people to get their act together before coming to Him, but rather met them where they were and showered them with love.  In their adultery.  In their brokenness.  In their doubt and fear.

So, right now, I’m working on bringing my mess into my Bible reading.  And I hope that each one of you can find encouragement and creative inspiration in these posts, no matter where you are with (or without) God.

{Deep breath.}  Okay, now that we’ve cleared the air there….

How I Discovered the Journaling Bible

When I first discovered the #JournalingBible and #IllustratedFaith hashtags on Instagram, it blew. my. mind.

You see, since I got my first Teen Study Bible in middle school, I’ve always written and doodled in the margins of my Bibles.  I’m a visual and kinesthetic learner, and if I don’t engage with a text or sermon by moving my pen, chances are good that I won’t remember any of it 10 minutes later.  Seriously, it’s like I have amnesia.

Plus, I grew up with two parents whose Bibles are both filled with teeny tiny notes in a rainbow of blue, black, and red pen.  As a child, I delighted to thumb through their pages, catching different snapshots of their journey with God through the years.  It was like I was the middle-man while they were passing notes in class with God.

So, flash-forward to early March when I discovered the Instagram hashtags and Shanna Noel’s feed.  All of a sudden, I was introduced to a new form of Bible note-taking…one that looked more like art journaling!  These pages involved swathes of paint and sticker letters and washi tape.  The Bibles boasted two inch margins, which became blank canvases for artistic expression.

Shanna Noel is just one of the 10 10 Inspiring Instagramers to Spark Your Creativity. Check out thinkingcloset.com for the full round-up and prepare for it to trigger your own creative renaissance!
Shanna Noel & her Journaling Bible pages

And sometimes, that expression spilled over onto the text or other pages, even over the edges like a smash-book.  There was a true boundlessness and unpredictability to it all.

Shanna Noel's Journaling Bible!
Shanna Noel’s Journaling Bible! Image from IllustratedFaith.com

And I felt an immediate draw to it.

It was similar to how I felt when I first saw my cousin’s high school production of Guys & Dolls as a wee lass.  I remember thinking,

“These are my people.  They are speaking my language.  I want in.”

So, my brand spankin’ new Journaling Bible arrived last week, and I have officially joined the movement.  I’m so excited to share the beginnings of My Journaling Bible journey with you, dear reader.

Welcome to My Journaling Bible: heART in the margins | The inside scoop Q & A style about this new movement sweeping the margins of Bibles everywhere...and how you can use art to engage with scripture in a new and exciting way!

Question & Answer Time

If this type of Bible journaling is brand new to you like it was to me a few weeks ago, I’m guessing you have a lot questions.  I know I did.

So, I thought I’d dedicate the rest of this post to a Q & A that will help fill in the blanks for you as well as provide you with helpful links to supplies and resources.

Cool?  Cool.

Welcome to My Journaling Bible: heART in the margins | The inside scoop Q & A style about this new movement sweeping the margins of Bibles everywhere...and how you can use art to engage with scripture in a new and exciting way!

Q:  Which Journaling Bible do you have, and where did you buy it?

A:  I have an E.S.V. Single Column Journaling Bible, Original Red Design by Crossway.

I knew I wanted a single-column journaling Bible so I wasn’t referencing verses all the way across two columns.  I chose the English Standard Version (E.S.V.) translation because it has been my favorite since discovering it post-college.  It is revered as one of the best word-for-word literal translations of the Bible, yet it reads beautifully.  You can check it out on BibleGateway.com if you’re curious.

Initially, I wanted the *black leather hardback; however the only Bible I could find according to my specifications above that was under $30 was a red leather hardback over at DiscountBible.com.  Now, these Bibles are selling like hotcakes because the very listing from which I made my purchase vanished the next day.  Until Crossway restocks their inventory, you may be hard-pressed to find one (here is one edition and another edition I spied on Amazon that appear to be in stock).

Most websites are sold out right now of the black and red versions of this Bible; however Crossway is coming out with brand new covers in September 2015 which you can preorder on Amazon, and they’ll ship it as soon as they are released: Cloth Over Board Flowers | Cloth Over Board TimelessAntique Floral Design | Summer Garden | Classic Marbled.

There are leatherback softcovers available at a higher price-point on many of the sites listed below.  You might also try your local Barnes & Noble or Christian bookstore to see if they have them in stock.  That’s where I found a copy for my mom!

Sites that sell Journaling Bibles:

Welcome to My Journaling Bible: heART in the margins | The inside scoop Q & A style about this new movement sweeping the margins of Bibles everywhere...and how you can use art to engage with scripture in a new and exciting way!

Q:  What do you think about your Bible now that you have it in person?

A:  I did a lot of research before purchasing, so I was prepared for the extra small font size (7.5 point to be exact).  That’s nothing compared to my Thinline, so that doesn’t bother me!

The 2 inch margins look much smaller than I expected, and the pages feel much thinner than I imagined after seeing the wealth of mixed media these Bibles have held in photos.  Challenge accepted!  I’m looking forward to experimenting with different writing instruments and painting applications to see what works best.

Also, the pages are creamy in color rather than crisp white.  Not a deal-breaker by any means.

I included my iPhone 6 next to the Bible for scale in the photo below.  With the case, my phone is 5.75 inches tall, and the Bible is just shy of 8.5 inches tall.  I love how portable it is!

Welcome to My Journaling Bible: heART in the margins | Here's a peek inside the book to see the pages, margin, and scale! Check out the full post for the inside scoop Q & A style about this new movement sweeping the margins of Bibles everywhere...and how you can use art to engage with scripture in a new and exciting way!

I actually love the bold red cover even more in person than I did online.  It’s not a Bible that will fade into the background, no sirree.  I may end up investing in a Bible cover from The Pokey Rose etsy shop or add my own adhesive fabric…we’ll see.  For now, I’m diggin’ the red and the elastic strap to hold it together.

Welcome to My Journaling Bible: heART in the margins | Here's a closer look at the cover and elastic strap. Check out the full post for the inside scoop Q & A style about this new movement sweeping the margins of Bibles everywhere...and how you can use art to engage with scripture in a new and exciting way!

Q:  So, do I have to have one of these special Journaling Bibles if I want to try this, too?

A:  No way, Jose!  Remember, there are no rules when it comes to art…and this is no exception.

I’ve seen plenty of examples of art journaling in Bibles with small or non-existent margins.  Some will use vellum or paper as an overlay they tape in with washi tape or may even choose to use a separate sketchbook for their artistic expressions.  Use whatever you’re comfortable with and excited about!

No margin in your Bible? No problem! You can use washi tape to tape in an overlay on vellum or paper!
Photo by Stephanie Ackerman on Instagram

Q:  What are some beginner supplies you’d recommend?

A:  As someone who has always loved the start of the new school year for the sole reason that it meant new school supplies, I actually had to rein myself in a bit on the supply-front so I didn’t go out and buy out all of Hobby Lobby.  But I did invest in a few supplies that came highly recommended by other Journaling Bible owners.

Here were some of the new items I bought:

Welcome to My Journaling Bible: heART in the margins | Here's a closer look some of the new supplies I bought to help decorate my Bible pages. Check out the full post for the inside scoop Q & A style about this new movement sweeping the margins of Bibles everywhere...and how you can use art to engage with scripture in a new and exciting way!

Excerpt from Jen Hatmaker's Book: A Modern Girl's Guide to Bible Study
Excerpt from Jen Hatmaker’s Book: A Modern Girl’s Guide to Bible Study

Welcome to My Journaling Bible: heART in the margins | Here's a closer look at some of the new supplies I bought to help decorate my Bible pages. Check out the full post for the inside scoop Q & A style about this new movement sweeping the margins of Bibles everywhere...and how you can use art to engage with scripture in a new and exciting way!

Welcome to My Journaling Bible: heART in the margins | Here's a closer look at some of the new supplies I bought to help decorate my Bible pages. Check out the full post for the inside scoop Q & A style about this new movement sweeping the margins of Bibles everywhere...and how you can use art to engage with scripture in a new and exciting way!

Annnnnd, new supplies round 2!  (I have a problem.)

Welcome to My Journaling Bible: heART in the margins | Here's a closer look at some of the new supplies I bought to help decorate my Bible pages. Check out the full post for the inside scoop Q & A style about this new movement sweeping the margins of Bibles everywhere...and how you can use art to engage with scripture in a new and exciting way!

But here’s the deal:

You really don’t need to purchase new supplies to create beautiful pages.  There’s a lot you can do with what you already have.  Here are some supply staples of my own I’m excited to use in my Journaling Bible:

And here’s a great post I recommend checking out by April Crosier called Finding Your Own Ephemera.

Welcome to My Journaling Bible: heART in the margins | Here's a closer look at some of the new supplies I bought to help decorate my Bible pages. Check out the full post for the inside scoop Q & A style about this new movement sweeping the margins of Bibles everywhere...and how you can use art to engage with scripture in a new and exciting way!

Q:  But won’t the ink and paint bleed through the thin pages?

A:  Sometimes.  In my research on YouTube, Instagram, and Shanna Noel’s website, Illustrated Faith, I’ve learned that there are a lot of forms of media that will not bleed through.  Some folk will prep a page with gesso to help with this.  Others just use pigment ink pens and markers that are lighter on the page.  Some acrylic paints like Liquitex heavy body acrylic paints are known to be extra thin and barely show through.

Welcome to My Journaling Bible: heART in the margins | Here's a closer look at some of the new supplies I bought to help decorate my Bible pages. Check out the full post for the inside scoop Q & A style about this new movement sweeping the margins of Bibles everywhere...and how you can use art to engage with scripture in a new and exciting way!

For the first passage I worked on, I used a really inexpensive set of acrylics I had on hand and applied my paint thinly with an old rewards card.

Welcome to My Journaling Bible: heART in the margins | Here's a closer look at my first pages! Check out the full post for the inside scoop Q & A style about this new movement sweeping the margins of Bibles everywhere...and how you can use art to engage with scripture in a new and exciting way!

Flipping the page over, you can tell there’s paint on the other side…though only faintly.  And the only places you can see it bleed through are where my paper ripped a little from removing stickers.  Not bad at all!

Welcome to My Journaling Bible: heART in the margins | Here's a closer look at my first pages! Check out the full post for the inside scoop Q & A style about this new movement sweeping the margins of Bibles everywhere...and how you can use art to engage with scripture in a new and exciting way!

But I really love Shanna Noel’s approach to it.  In many of her videos, she shares that bleed-through doesn’t bother her.  She sees it as inspiration to jump off of when designing the back of the page.  She incorporates that bleed-through into her journaling…or might cover it up with paper and scraps and start afresh.

She also recommends using pages in the back of the Bible as test pages, so you can see if there’s bleed-through and if it bothers you before using a certain type of media.  That’s exactly what I did to get the hang of applying the paint with a card.  Great tip, Shanna!

Welcome to My Journaling Bible: heART in the margins | Here's a closer look at my first pages! Check out the full post for the inside scoop Q & A style about this new movement sweeping the margins of Bibles everywhere...and how you can use art to engage with scripture in a new and exciting way!
One of my test pages in the back.

Q:  I’m not sure how I feel about covering up God’ Word with paint and craft supplies.  Why would you ever want to do that?

A:  Here’s one of those tricky questions that I think everyone needs to answer for herself.  Some might want to stick just within the blank space in the margin.  Others might be okay with it spilling over on top of letters as long as you can see it.  Others might not care if some of the words get covered up.  What one person is comfortable with may not be true for another, and that’s okay I say!  To each her own.

As I shared earlier, I personally learn best through doodles and note-taking.  I’m really viewing this Bible as one specifically for art journaling to help me engage with scripture in a fresh new way.  So, I decided to intentionally break some of the rules that I might have set for myself with other Bibles I own (like getting the pages “messy”).

Also, I know I haven’t been this excited to dive into Bible reading in a long time…and if that’s through art journaling on the pages of my Bible, then to me, that’s a good thing!

Bottom line: we can all choose to respect each other and our different schools of thought when it comes to this sort of thing.  Let’s be kind to ourselves and to each other.

Welcome to My Journaling Bible: heART in the margins | Here's a closer look at my first pages! Check out the full post for the inside scoop Q & A style about this new movement sweeping the margins of Bibles everywhere...and how you can use art to engage with scripture in a new and exciting way!

Q:  I can’t seem to get off the ground with this style of art journaling in my Bible because I’m afraid to mess it up.  Any tips for getting started?

A:  I hear ya!  As a perfectionist, I knew this was going to be a struggle for me, too.

So, in order to grant myself real artistic freedom with my Journaling Bible, I created a set of Permissions Pages in the front of my journal as a decree that this Bible would be dedicated to creative exploration and not mini works of art.  I wanted the focus to be on the experience and not a perfect outcome.

UPDATE: Actually, I dedicated an entire post to sharing these Permission Pages, so click HERE to check it out!

Welcome to My Journaling Bible: heART in the margins | Here's a closer look at my permission pages! Check out the full post for the inside scoop Q & A style about this new movement sweeping the margins of Bibles everywhere...and how you can use art to engage with scripture in a new and exciting way!

Q:  But I’m not artistic or creative.  This wouldn’t work for me…right?

A:  Wrong!  First of all, even just taking written notes in pen in your margin is a wonderful way to engage with scripture.  So, you can let that be it for you!

Or if you wanted a more “art journal” approach, I’ve heard many folk say that stencils, stickers, and stamps will be your best friend.  Also, the pages are thin enough in my Bible that I plan to do some tracing of images and text I print out.

Check out this awesome post by Debby Shuh called Illustrating Your Bible When You Don’t Feel Artistic.

Welcome to My Journaling Bible: heART in the margins | Here's a closer look at some of the new supplies I bought to help decorate my Bible pages. Check out the full post for the inside scoop Q & A style about this new movement sweeping the margins of Bibles everywhere...and how you can use art to engage with scripture in a new and exciting way!

Q:  Is this going to be a regular series on the blog?

A:  You tell me!  {Smile.}  If there’s interest in learning more about my Journaling Bible experience in the weeks ahead, do let me know!

And in the meantime, I’ll for sure be posting regularly over on Instagram using my brand new hashtag #heARTinthemargins, so make sure to follow me over there.

And you can click HERE to subscribe so you receive updates about my latest posts in your inbox!  (Also, I have a free printable gift for all of my subscribers…so what are you waiting for?)

Follow @thinkingcloset on Instagram to stay in the loop on her Journaling Bible adventures! She'll be using the hashtag #heART in the margins
Click HERE to follow @thinkingcloset!

Update: I received such an overwhelmingly positive response to this post that I created a Flip-Through Video Tour of my first ten entries in my Journaling Bible.  Feel free to check it out for more inspiration!

Flip-Through Video Tour of My Journaling Bible | Join me on this fun lil' video tour of the first 10 entries of my E.S.V. Journaling Bible in which I share tips, tricks, favorite supplies, techniques I've been exploring, and why this has been such a meaningful way for me to study the Bible these past 3 months. I hope it's an encouragement to you wherever you find yourself in your journey.
Click HERE to check it out.

Q:  This excites me, too!  How do I learn more?

A:  I recommend exploring the Illustrated Faith website and subscribing to her free weekly newsletter.  And be sure to follow Shanna Noel on Instagram (yes, she was in my 10 Inspiring Instagramers to Spark Your Creativity post from last week, too!).  She is the founder of the #IllustratedFaith movement, and she’ll keep you up to speed with lots of helpful resources and inspiration.  I just may have devoured her entire website and all of its archives in one night (that’s how I obsessed I am).

Also, there’s a Journaling Bible Community on Facebook I’m a part of and loving.  You don’t even have to be journaling yet to join it!

And seriously, use whatever social media channel you love most (Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter) to search for terms like “Illustrated Faith” and “Journaling Bible” and no doubt, you’ll be bombarded by a wealth of inspiration just as I have been.

Welcome to My Journaling Bible: heART in the margins | Here's a closer look at the cover and elastic strap. Check out the full post for the inside scoop Q & A style about this new movement sweeping the margins of Bibles everywhere...and how you can use art to engage with scripture in a new and exciting way!

To Close

Thanks for sticking with me through this lengthy post.  It’s just that I’m super excited to pour my heART into the margins of my new Journaling Bible in the days ahead and would be thrilled to have some companions on this journey!

Let me know in the comments below if you have a blog or Instagram account where you share your pages, so I can be sure to follow along with your journey, too!

Until next time,

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81 Comments

  1. I am a new comer to Bible journaling. I am so worried about what I write bleeding through to the back of the page. Is there any kind of pad you can put between the pages. Also, love your website.

    1. Bleed-through is often a worry of mine, too! If I’m using new materials, I like to make a test-page in the very back. And I bought *this mat for my Journaling Bible (that also has a nifty ruler on it) to keep between the pages when painting. It’s fantastic! Thanks for visiting and for the warm words, Ann. *affiliate link

  2. What did you use to make your tab dividers? I’m looking around for them and I can’t find any as cute as yours!

  3. Found this on Pinterest and am obsessed! Very inspiring, agree totally with your intro … I’m right there with you! May just give this a try

  4. I am so glad there’s a trend like this. I am in love with art and I want it to express and grow deeper in my faith and seems like this is the right place for me to start. I love your blog post, and now I am inspired to really start something. I remembered I asked my friend; “Can we do something about our bibles? Like decorate it? It would be fun and awesome, right?” But she did not agree with me because she thought it was like disrespecting the Bible. I was offended, for sure but I still want to do it. Then I came across this just now, literally this hour, and it makes my heart so happy. I am so glad. I don’t know if you understand my roller coaster of emotion right now, but I am just really happy. Thanks for your blog by the way, you inspired me. 🙂 God bless you more.

  5. it looks like your journalling Bible has lines in the margin
    i was looking for blank margins
    what do you use…
    and if yours does have the lines… do you just ignore/work with them?
    thx. for your help!

    1. Ya know, I haven’t seen any by Crossway without lines, but I will say they are VERY faint and pretty much fade into the background when you lay atop it your design. I’ve also grown to appreciate those little lines, too, when doing lettering. It helps me calculate spacing. So, to answer your question, I both ignore them and work with them depending on the design…but they definitely haven’t hindered me creatively! Hope that helps.

  6. I absolutely love the idea of a journaling bible and being able to illustrate verses! What a great way to spend some extra time thinking about specific verses! I love absolutely love it!

  7. Thanks for your post!
    I love the idea of Bible Journaling – I’ll soon be turning twenty and I’ve had the idea of journaling in the same Bible throughout my twenties so I’ll be able to look back and see how the Lord was speaking to me in this crazy decade of my life.

    You’re post was so helpful, thanks.

    – Sara

    thegospeldiet.blogspot.co.uk

  8. So I’ve scrolled and read. Help me with this question, where do you personally start in determining where to begin highlighting and emphasizing words? What are the questions you ask yourself? I like the idea of velum overlays and adore different pens… but i’m fearful of getting distracted from the meditating on the word. Balance lessons learned that you might share? Thanks!

    1. These are some great questions, Sarah! There’s always that balance to strike, isn’t there? I think I’ll have to dedicate an entire post to this subject someday…and for me, my approach is different every time. I don’t have a set formula, but sometimes I’ll start with a Bible verse that has been on my heart (either from a sermon or devotional). Other times, a song lyric will inspire me to study a relevant text in scripture. Or even a quote from a book. From there, I do a bit of journaling in a notebook to narrow my focus and decide which words are speaking most to my heart that day (and which I’ll focus on). If I’m stuck on layout inspiration, I allow my supplies and the #JournalingBible and #IllustratedFaith hashtags on Instagram to guide me. And I see the creative process as very much a part of worship…exercising the passion and gifting that God has given me. Where I can be led astray is if I get lost in a trap of perfectionism. And that’s when I return to my Permission Pages and remember what this Bible is for and what it is not for. I think you’ll probably have to find what works best for you, and if you find yourself losing sight of your original intentions, then you can return to the basics of scripture meditation. Can’t go wrong there!

  9. A friend has inspired me to Faith Journal. My Bible arrived yesterday so I am spending today looking for direction and artistic inspiration. Your post was the most helpful addressing my concerns and I love how you several times make a point that we are all different and that’s okay. I already know I don’t want to cover any words and bleed through would drive me bonkers lol I think journaling through art in the margins will strengthen my study and walk in the way have done other Christ centered art pieces have. Thank you!

    1. Hooray! Beverly, thank you for sharing that, and I’m delighted to hear that this post may have allayed some of your concerns. Yes, each journaler’s journey will look different as will each Bible and that’s part of what I love about this form of artistic expression and worship. Blessings as you shove off!

  10. I just found your blog and really appreciate your honest approach to the idea of journaling with faith based materials, and overcoming perfection to journal in your Bible! I am wondering if you’ve found other folks who participate in this type of faith journaling in other faith-based books.

    Being a Quaker myself, you’re giving me ideas to consider journaling not only in a Bible set aside for this purpose, but my old Faith and Practice book. Be curious to see what folks from other backgrounds are doing too.
    Blessings…

  11. I’m not sure how I found your site….
    You know how it is..you start over place..click here then click there..And then land on sweet inspiration.
    That’s you.
    I think I have been listening to a lie lately…I turn sixty this month…ugh ugh ugh
    And have convinced myself that I’m really old..too old to create..to old to do BIBLE journaling..too old to blog or instagram.
    Why bother I’m old..leave it to the young ones.
    But I read your posts…saw great things.Maybe I’m thinking I can.
    I quilt..I journal…I keep my scrapbooks..but im not artistic. It’s that old ( ah man there’s that word again) saying…not artistic but I know what I like…
    So that’s where I am..but wanted to thank you…

  12. I love this! I just got my own journaling bible and I can’t wait to start! Thanks for all the tips. I have to look for pens/markers and paint that won’t leak through to the other page! Highlighters I use leak through so I have to do some good research. Thanks again!

    1. Yay! Welcome to the wonderful world of Bible journaling! So glad you found this post helpful. And the back pages of your Bible are a great place to try out new supplies to see how much they bleed through. Have fun playing!

  13. Hello,

    This has given me a fresh inspiration for our young woman’s bible study. Our church is currently in a season of stretching our worship into new areas of giftings and expression. What could be more inspiring than creating beauty on the same pages where our Father reveals His heart to us.I believe a true intimate relationship with God comes from perceiving him again and again but from different angles and through new lenses. Thank you for sharing

    1. What a beautiful perspective, Dana! I couldn’t agree more…and I hope you and the gals enjoy your exploration into Bible journaling. It has been such an incredible journey for me these past several months. The Modern Girl’s Guide to Bible Study by Jen Hatmaker might be a helpful resource for you as you prepare for your sessions together. Blessings!

  14. Thank you so much for doing this post.
    I love all the links and information you gave, because i keep thinking about wanting to start this kind of journaling and never found where i could find a journaling bible or what kind of material would work, so this was really helpful.
    I also loved that you included pictures from your own, which by the way is very beautiful.

  15. Found your blog-post on Pinterest. Pinterest is where I first noticed Bible/Faith journaling. I am not kuch of an artist, so I think mine will be mostly color coded notes and underlining. However, I might try out some stick figures and scribble flowers. And hearts! I can draw hearts! I was actually searchjng Bible study methods when the Journaling Bible came up. Maybe I can trace someone else’s lovely art to pretty up my pages. Thank you for this post. Sure wish this had been around when I was homeschooling. I think my son would have enjoyed Bible art.

    1. I think that’s what I really love about this movement. You don’t have to be a Michelangelo to have really beautiful pages. It’s all about using whatever resources you have (like tracing paper!) and following whatever thread of inspiration you find in scripture to have a worshipful experience. I have to constantly remind myself that perfection has no place in this process, though sometimes I can get off track! Such is being human, right?

      And just like you mentioned how much your son would have loved this, I keep thinking how much I would have loved to have a Bible like this as a kiddo. At least we have a new generation of kiddos who have the opportunity to dive in!

  16. Lauren,
    I am blown away by this! It really excites me. I doodle all the time while listening to a sermon. But I too, struggle with perfectionism. I like your permission pages idea. I really want to give this a try. I hope you keep posting about your journey of your journaling Bible.
    Blessings,
    Cecilia

  17. I just discovered ur blog and it’s amazing, I have never heard of bible journaling but would love to know more!! I have always wanted to study my bible just didn’t know where to start, thank u

    1. Aw, Tena, aren’t you the sweetest? I’m so happy you found your way over to The Thinking Closet and that you’re excited about Bible Journaling, too! I’m working on my second post on the subject so stay tuned! 😉

  18. I had never seen this before. I am in love. This combines 2 of my loves, The Lord and art. Cant wait to get started, ordering (back-ordering) my bible today 🙂

  19. Wait – this is the most fun activity I’ve seen in a long time. I haven’t heard of this journaling trend, but I am IN. Not sure that I’d show my notes to the public (they won’t be incredibly pretty), but luckily the big man just cares that you’re present.

    Thanks for passing on the good word! 🙂

    1. Yay! We are so on the same page, Jessica! And I personally think if the idea of sharing your pages feels daunting or might keep you from uncensored self-expression, then don’t do it. Just let it be between you and God and call it a day!

      You’re exactly right about the big man upstairs not caring about the pretty-factor – – that’s a good reminder for me, too! #notprettyjustpresent

  20. I love love love this idea and creativity. I am going to have to jump all over this. I also think it’s a great hands on way to get kids started and excited about it. I will have to try this with mine!!!! Thanks Lauren!

    1. Yes! I’ve seen several folk on Instagram share pages done by their kids or even share pictures of family Journaling Bible sessions around a craft table – – that’s something I’d love to do with my future kids someday! Go forth and pave the way, Kelly dear.

  21. Dad and I enjoyed reading your post together and were fascinated that you remember our doodling and even read some of our Bible notes. I found your description of being middle man between our love notes to God very poetic and lovely.

    Your introduction is a great one, really setting the stage…to give people permission to have various thoughts about the Bible… later you addressed the fact that some may have different views about writing in their Bibles.

    As you know, my parents wrote in theirs, too, and Mor Mor had many colors depending on the verses (e.g. different colors for the promises of God vs. the commands).

    Well done! So proud of you and it’s so wonderful to see this journey God is leading you on…I would LOVE to see more of your Bible Journal heART!

    Since reading this, I drew a palm branch in the margins of my Bible today during the sermon. We were reading and learning about Jesus’ journey on Palm Sunday…and wrote HOSANNA in bubble letters…never even thought to do that before! So I’m sure it won’t be long before I order my own ESV Journaling Bible!

    How amazing, too, that what you journaled about in this post is something that could immediately and directly encourage your grandparents in their struggles this week. Love you!

    1. Oh yes! I vividly remember looking through your Bibles to spy your doodles in church or in Ocean Grove on your bed or in the breakfast nook. You two have always been such a huge inspiration to me! Both artistically and spiritually. And I love that the same holds true for your parents. Love Mor Mor’s color-coding system! I might have to adopt the same.

      Glad you enjoyed the introduction and felt it set the stage. Originally that section appeared about halfway through the post, but Mark urged me to start with it, and that was the right choice!

      Aw, and I love that you have already been inspired to take your doodles to the next level – – the palm branch and bubble letters sounds so lovely. And I know you’ll continue to make God smile with your meditations and scribbles and drawings to come! Love much, Mama-dear!

  22. I believe that it’s always a good thing to be able to learn and remember inspiring passages, not just in a Bible but in other works as well. What seems to jump out at me though is that what I see in the examples is too excessive. It almost seems as though every page has been decorated just for the fun of it. Perhaps the message is being blurred by the ornamentation. Just a thought.
    I can see though, that used in moderation that enhancing a particular passage can be a way of worshipping the Word.

    1. Yes, I agree, Ann! I was always so grateful for the teachers and professors who required that we memorize powerful poems and pieces of text. Especially since I feel like most of it too easily flits in and out of my head. I’m excited to see how this process of using my Journaling Bible helps me retain scripture passages, too!

      As for some of the pages seeming too excessive, I hear ya. And I think it’s probably all a matter of everyone’s own artistic style and proclivities. For some, pages that are simple with subtle ornamentation to draw out the text might work best for them. For me, I know my artistic style has always been bold, colorful, and what some might call “too much!” (Tee hee.) But I know God delights in each of us with our own unique approaches to art. Just scrolling through the hashtags on Instagram, I’m in awe of how different everyone’s pages look, and that sets me free to explore where my instincts lead me.

      Thanks for taking the time to check out my post and comment! I could chat about this stuff all day. 😉 Have a great one, Ann!

  23. Stitching with your sewing machine??? Really? This is the coolest. I want to get one of these, sew a bible cover for it, AND journal in it. I had never heard of this before now. I am new to blogging and in a stroke of good fortune, found my way to your older post on tips for new bloggers (which was great, by the way – thank you!) and then headed over to this post and I am so glad I did. Yes, I think it should be a series, maybe where you feature a journal page that you do each week? Just a thought. I’m sure there would be some fabulous creative art pics to show and then some great conversation regarding the content on the page!

    1. I know, right?! Mind. Blown.

      Love that you’re savvy enough with your sewing machine to want to sew a cover, too! You go, Nicole!

      So glad you enjoyed my blogging tips and that it led you here. Isn’t it wonderful, the rabbit holes we can fall down into after just a few clicks? 😉

      Also, I love your idea to feature a journal page each week! Thanks for the feedback. I think I’m going to shoot for that. It has been just so great to get this conversation going about the Journaling Bible movement, and I’m so glad to have you be a part of it!

  24. Such a great post, Lauren! Of course your page looks amazing 😀 I think you also have a talent to minister to the heart! I am always so encouraged and inspired by your blog posts. You offer so many nuggets of wisdom. I especially love “It was like I was the middle-man while they were passing notes in class with God.” What a beautiful picture…. I think I want to pass notes to God too!

    1. Thanks so much for taking the time to read my blog and even READ IT ALOUD to your actors, Darling. You minister to my heart on a weekly basis, my dear, and I’m tickled pink that we have a Journaling Bible date this week! It really can’t come soon enough. Hugs!

  25. You are inspiring, Lauren, as always! I’ve been stalking a few of these journaling w/art in Bible Study posts – thinking it may be a good way to go with my children in our homeschool. Love your detailed, how-to post with your recommendations, tips and tricks.

    1. I knew this would resonate with you, Linda! And I’m shaking my head right now in awe of your awesomeness at brainstorming ways to work this into your homeschooling activities. Can I come and join in on the fun? Hope you and your brood are having a fabulous spring!

  26. Wow! What an amazing post with a plethora of colorful and inspiring steps. Yet, since you and I have the same genes that needs to write to remember and learn, I will continue write in the margins–and since you and I did not get the same artistic genes, I will continue NOT to draw in the margins, though I will be constantly humming a tune.

    Your “Music Man” Dad

    1. Now, before you shoot down your artistic skills, let me remind you of a certain Dad I know whose Tooth Bunny drawings and American Girl dollars had two little girls smitten. So, don’t sell yourself short! 😉

      Oh and random side note, I didn’t know this before I married Mark, but he possesses your same habit of always humming a tune of sorts. Hearing him around the house, I sometimes get flashbacks to my childhood! How very sweet it is. Love ya, “Music Man!”

      1. Haha…I’ve got those American Girl dollars and Tooth Bunny drawings/notes stored away somewhere. Will have to keep my eye out for them!

  27. I am loving this, Lauren. More please! I’ve done bible study all my life, but my first manuscript study almost 20 years ago (think Precept/ Kay Arthur) was a life changer. Marking words, drawing connectors, color coding concepts… truth started just jumping off the page. And I owned that truth. Didn’t forget the insights God gave as soon as I closed the book. Go for it, friend! This looks like so much fun. Just be sure to share with your online buddies. I have always maintained that I meet God and worship Him in my creative pursuits.

    1. Ahhhh! Kay Arthur’s study on the Beatitudes is one of my favorites of all time! (I’m thinking of revisiting it now and using my Journaling Bible along with it.)
      Dottie, I loved hearing about how your markings inspired truth to “jump off the page.” What a powerful image! And one that resonates with me deeply.

      Thanks so much for the vote of confidence and encouragement. Go for it, I will! And I will be sure to continue to share with you all as it was my online buddies who first inspired me to pursue this form of art worship. I love the idea of helping to inspire others to “meet God and worship Him through [their] creative pursuits.” Had to quote you on that, it was so good!

  28. I found your post through the Journaling Bible Community FB group and I loved reading about your process and your motivation! I especially loved your permission pages. Thanks so much for sharing! Looking forward to following on Instagram. 🙂

    1. Liz! Thanks so very much for taking the time to stop by and check out my post! I’m putting the finishing touches on my Permission Pages post, so you can look out for that soon. And thanks for the Insta-follow, as well! Will keep an eye out for you there, as well. Hugs, friend!

  29. I loved the instagram pics I saw at yow from you… and I’m tempted to start as well! I haven’t found a jouranling bible in German so far, but I do have this one bible that once met with my leaking thermos bottle on the way to university. Maybe I should just use that one – there’s nothing I could destroy with painting in it 🙂

    Hugs & kisses!
    Elena

    1. Aw, thanks, Elena! Maybe you can use your Twitter skills to advocate for a Bible publisher to come out with a German Journaling Bible…though I love your out-of-the-box idea to use a Bible that had an unfortunate encounter with your leaking thermos (sigh; we’ve all been there, haven’t we?). Maybe it wasn’t unfortunate at all, but rather permission to play with your paints! How’s that for making lemonade out of lemons?! Hugs and kisses back at’cha, friend!

  30. How stinkin’ cool are you?! I just wrote a big ol’ post full of resources for Bible journaling not too long ago, and a bunch of the references were Shanna and her Illustrated Faith goodness. 🙂 I love your bold green & yellow page, and can’t wait to see more! I have the same Bible you have except in black and want to do something super colorful on the front of mine…just haven’t decided what yet.
    Love you bunches – thanks for the link to A Modern Girl’s Guide. I’ll be looking into that one! XOXO

    1. Same wavelength! Matching Bibles! We are soul sisters indeed! (As if we had any doubt.)

      Thanks for all the comment love and share-love you’ve sent my way with this post, too, Kirsten. You are a blessing to me time and time again.

      Also, you have me so inspired with your washi tape cover. Though I am enjoying the bright red for now…so we’ll see how long I can wait before I spill some creativity on that beast! Lol.

      Glad to know you’re going to look into getting A Modern Girl’s Guide! I’m tearing through it and loving every refreshingly honest and inspired chapter. I’m certain you will, too, Kirsten.

      Sending a squeeze! -Lauren

  31. Yes, my friend! I vote for a regular series on the blog! I’m very curious about this Bible journaling and am toying with the idea of jumping in myself… I just want to check out some of the resources you gave first because… well, because that’s just the way I am!

    Funny thing is as I opened my Bible the other day after your first Instagram post, I realized that this was something I was sort of doing in the front pages of my Bible with my regular old pen. That gave me a little confidence that this wouldn’t me trying to be something I’m not. I think for me I’d have to really avoid the temptation of trying to create a *work of art* every time… especially since I’m NOT a visual artist! Once I get over that (begone perfectionist self!), I might be joining you!

    Thanks, as always, for opening my mind and heart to new ways of being creative AND new ways of getting more personal with God. I remember thinking when I met you 16 years ago (what????) that you were proof that Christians could fun and “cool” and you are still leaving me thinking that now!

    Love you!

    1. Well, your vote is my command! 😉

      And I was hoping you’d say you’re considering jumping in, too. I have always loved your way with words and though I know you like to pretend you’re not super creative sometimes, that’s anything but the truth! I know you’d make God smile with your journaling heART! (And that’s so awesome to hear you already have been journaling in your Bible…that it was already a natural extension of your quiet time.)

      I hear ya on needing to work hard to free yourself of the pressure to create a work of art on the pages. I know that will be a temptation for me, and so that’s why I created the Permission Pages (more to come on that soon). Gotta break that perfectionist of her habits before they creep up again! #begoneperfectionistself #giannaquote

      You made me smile to know you thought of me as a “fun and cool” Christian back in the mission trip days. I felt anything but “cool” during those teen years…but finding a Figgy friend to clean bathroom floors helped me get through the rough patches. Wow, has it really been 16 years?! I love how God has grown our friendship and sweetened it through every season we’ve walked through together. And I’m excited for where he’ll lead us next!

      Love you, G!

  32. I love that you’ve found this new community, Lauren! I too have struggled getting into the Word everyday, and I can’t even begin to tell you how much it inspires me to see the creativity everyone has with Illustrated Faith. Will be following your journey, friend, and can’t wait to see what truths God reveals to you through this process!

    1. Yay! Thanks so much for your support with this, Kalyn – – both here on the blog and behind the scenes. 😉 I was so excited to see your smiling face in the Journaling Bible Community on Facebook. I thought, “I’m among friends here!” Maybe you, Michelle, and I can do a little Journaling Bible session next time we have a meet-up. It will be sooooo good for the soul!

  33. I am so excited to see you join this Journaling Bible and Illustrated Faith club 😀 I love your post, review everything! Thanks for the details and inspirational pictures.

    I am so newbie in this and still learning to take more notes in creative way.
    Blessings,
    Helen

    1. You are so welcome, Helen! I’m delighted to share it with you all! I have a hunch you’d really love this form of artistic expression and worship. I hope you get a chance to try it out sometime…and then, I’ll get to be inspired by you! Hugs to you.

  34. Lauren, this is SO exciting! I can’t wait to check out some of your suggestions. The entire time I was reading this post I kept thinking how would I actually cover up the words of the Bible so I really appreciate you sweetly you addressed those concerns. I can’t tell you enough how much I love and respect you as a person. You inspire me all the time. Hugs, Coco

    1. Aw, thanks for your kind and heartfelt words, friend. And I’m glad to know that addressing some of the stickier questions was of value to you. This is definitely such a personal act, as is all journaling, but I was eager to share about my experience with it from the outpouring of excitement and passion in my heart.

      The love and respect you send my way on a regular basis I want to send right back to you! Your blog and Instagram feed deserves rockstar status, and it’s all because of the amazing soul behind it: CoCo!

      Hope your week is sweet and full of God-surprises! XO -LL

  35. I love this post full of so much information. I discovered this several months ago and wanted to start too. I just need to get my Bible ordered. I am just like with being a perfectionist and afraid to mess up the pages. You have included so much great information and resources to help with just diving in. Thanks again for sharing this! Have a great rest of the week!

    1. Ha ha. Brevity was never my strong suit, but I’m always glad when folk appreciate the bombardment of information! So, thanks for saying that, Bethany.

      And I’ve loved seeing you in the Journaling Bible Community on Facebook and receiving your email-love about this form of art worship, too! Hope you can get your Bible ordered soon because I have no doubt that your inkling of inspiration about Bible Journaling will only increase (as has mine!). And I’ll be excited to follow along with your creative journey.

      Have a wonderful start to your week, friend.

  36. Oh, I’m so happy you shared about the process and ideas behind your new journey! As you know from your “destroy me” journal days (or whatever it was called haha), I would never ever paint or color or in some other ways “destroy” a book – just not wired that way. But I love that it’s making you excited about scripture, that’s wonderful! Like you said, to each their own. I would definitely love to hear more about this, and see a little bit of your process now and again.. you’re so artistically talented! Thanks for sharing this so openly (as always). Hugs!

    1. I’m so glad you remembered my Wreck This Journal post…because I think it shares a lot in common with this Journaling Bible movement (both being a perfectionist’s nightmare). And yet, something deep inside draws me to both of them

      Like you said, we’re all wired differently, so I think that’s a-okay if you never want to paint or color in a book. But I love your open-heartedness in that you still celebrate my passion and excitement behind it! There’s a true friend right there. And I hope I have the same open-mindedness to others who may make different choices than I would – – creatively or otherwise.

      You’re my hero, Johanna…and now I’m off to send you a long overdue reply to your email! Hugs back atcha!

  37. Lauren,

    Thank you for sharing about bible journaling! I know I’ve told you before that sometimes when reading your blog, I feel so connected to you. We have a lot of similar interests, and it just feels like I’m talking to a sister or bestie when I read your posts. Anyway, about a month ago, I began a scripture journal after spending time on this youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/MayMayMadeIt

    I’m about four weeks in, but after checking out some of the suggestions in your instagram post, I may have decided to order a journaling bible as well. I too am excited about the art being RIGHT THERE in the word! Thank you for the inspiration, Lauren. I’m anxious to keep up with your journey, and I’ll pray that we both feel more compelled to keep up the regular routine for the Lord. 🙂

    Emme

    1. Aw, sweet Emme, the feeling so mutual my dear! Every email / comment / word of encouragement you send my way is like a handwritten note from a friend of old. So, kindred spirits we are! (I love how blogging has brought me into contact with so many fabulous soul sisters like yourself.)

      And it gives me great joy to know that this style of journaling and engaging with scripture resonates with you, too! I cannot WAIT to check out MayMayMadeIt’s YouTube channel (it sounds RIGHT up my alley).

      Eek! I’m so excited to hear that you just *may have your very own Journaling Bible coming your way, too! {Squeeee!} Can’t wait to stay in the loop on your journey, too! And I’m echoing that prayer of yours. Amen!

        1. I’m glad you like it! I’ve been to a Family Christian Bookstore in Brandon and Lakeland. NO ESV JOURNALING BIBLES! Out of stock online as well. Now I’m even more anxious to get started. 🙂

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