10 Simple Bible Journaling Ideas

Want to grow closer to God but feel stuck when it comes to Bible journaling?

Maybe you’ve scrolled through Pinterest, admiring beautifully illustrated Bible pages, only to think, “I could never do that.”

Same here, friend. But here’s the good news, you don’t need to be an artist to engage with God’s Word in a meaningful way.

This guide is packed with simple, creative Bible journaling ideas that even the most unartistic among us can enjoy.

Whether you’re looking for scripture writing prompts, easy prayer journaling techniques, or just a way to soak in God’s truth without the pressure to be perfect, you’re in the right place.

Let’s make Bible journaling doable, refreshing, and life-giving, no fancy art skills required.

What Is Bible Journaling

Bible Journaling: A Creative Way to Grow in Your Faith (No Art Skills Required!)

Ever feel like simply reading your Bible isn’t enough? Maybe you want to linger in God’s Word, let it sink deep, and make it personal—but you’re not sure how.

That’s where Bible journaling comes in. And here’s the best part: you don’t have to be an artist to do it.

What Is Bible Journaling?

Bible journaling is more than just doodling in the margins, it’s a powerful way to connect with Scripture. Instead of only reading the words on the page, you engage with them, reflect on them, and creatively express what God is teaching you.

Whether you write, sketch, paint, or simply highlight, the goal is the same: to slow down and soak in God’s truth.

Why Try Bible Journaling?

It helps Scripture come alive.
As you interact with a passage—whether by writing key verses, drawing simple symbols, or adding color—you’ll notice details you might have missed before.

It deepens your faith.
Meditating on God’s Word through journaling can help you memorize Scripture, apply it to your life, and grow closer to Him.

It’s a form of worship.
Bible journaling isn’t just about creativity—it’s about offering your time and heart to God. Whether you’re writing a prayer, illustrating a verse, or simply underlining a word that speaks to you, it’s an act of devotion.

It brings comfort and encouragement.
When life feels overwhelming, spending time in your Bible journal can refocus your heart on truth and remind you of God’s promises.

It’s a fun way to build community.
Journaling groups and workshops are popping up everywhere, bringing together women who love Jesus and creativity. It’s a great way to connect, share, and grow in faith together.

You Don’t Have to Be an Artist

Bible journaling isn’t about perfection, it’s about engagement. Whether you prefer simple note-taking, creative lettering, stickers, or just using colorful highlighters, the goal is to experience God’s Word in a fresh way.

And the best part? It’s easy to start!

Check out my list of simple Bible journaling ideas below and find a style that works for you.

Is Bible Journaling Disrespectful

Maybe you’ve wondered: Is it okay to write or draw in my Bible? Is it disrespectful to highlight, take notes, or add creative elements?

Let me reassure you, Bible journaling is not about defacing God’s Word; it’s about engaging with it.

In fact, it’s the opposite of disrespect. It’s an act of devotion.

Why Bible Journaling is a Beautiful Practice

It helps Scripture sink deep.
When you highlight, write, or illustrate a verse, you’re not just reading—you’re meditating, reflecting, and absorbing God’s truth.

It brings the Word to life.
Adding color, symbols, or personal notes makes Scripture more interactive and memorable—helping you retain and apply it in everyday life.

It’s an act of worship.
Bible journaling is a way of offering your heart to God through creativity. Whether through simple notes or detailed illustrations, you’re responding to His Word in a personal way.

What If Someone Says It’s Wrong?

Some may feel uncomfortable writing in a Bible, and that’s okay! But remember, the Bible is not just a book to sit on a shelf. It’s meant to be read, studied, and engaged with.

If journaling helps you understand, remember, and cherish God’s truth, then it’s a powerful way to grow in your faith.

So don’t let fear hold you back. Bible journaling is not about perfection—it’s about connection. And if it draws you closer to God, that’s a beautiful thing.

What Do You Write In A Journaling Bible

Maybe you’ve held a journaling Bible in your hands, stared at those blank margins, and thought, What am I supposed to write here?

Good news—there’s no right or wrong way to journal your faith. It’s about making God’s Word personal and creating a space where Scripture truly comes alive for you.

Ideas to Fill the Pages of Your Journaling Bible

Reflections on Scripture
Don’t just read—respond! Jot down your thoughts as you read. Ask yourself:
✔ What is God teaching me?
✔ How does this apply to my life right now?
✔ What emotions does this passage stir in me?

Prayers
Turn the margins of your Bible into a personal prayer journal. Write out your deepest struggles, gratitude, or even one-sentence prayers like, “Lord, help me trust You more.”

Gratitude Lists
Fill your pages with things you’re thankful for—big or small. From answered prayers to simple joys like a warm cup of coffee, gratitude shifts our focus back to God’s goodness.

Creative Writing
If you love words, write poetry, short reflections, or even letters to God. Your journaling Bible can be a space to explore faith in a way that’s meaningful to you.

Sermon Notes
Ever leave church feeling inspired, only to forget the message by Tuesday? Write key takeaways, Scriptures, and personal applications so you can revisit them later.

Simple or Artistic Expressions
Not an artist? No problem! Even simple underlining, doodles, or colorful highlights help Scripture stand out. If you enjoy drawing, painting, or hand lettering, let your creativity flow as a form of worship.

Bible Journaling is Ancient (And It’s Not About Being “Good at Art”)

Believe it or not, Bible journaling isn’t new.

Before the printing press, Scripture was copied by hand, often with beautiful calligraphy and illustrations, not to make it look pretty, but to help people engage deeply with God’s Word.

That’s the heart of Bible journaling today, it’s not about perfection. It’s about connection.

So go ahead—write, doodle, highlight, reflect. Make it yours.

Because the most important thing isn’t how it looks, but how it draws you closer to the One who wrote it.

Bible Journaling Examples

Ever scrolled through Bible journaling pages and thought, I wish I could do that… but I’m not an artist?

Here’s the truth: Bible journaling isn’t about being artistic—it’s about connecting with God’s Word in a creative and personal way.

And the best part? There’s no wrong way to do it.

Inspiring Bible Journaling Ideas

Hand-Lettered Verses
Write out Scripture in beautiful, intentional lettering. Whether it’s a simple note in the margins or an elegant design, the act of writing helps you remember and reflect on God’s promises.

Watercolor Backgrounds
Soft washes of color behind a verse can create a peaceful and reflective space in your Bible. Whether you blend colors or keep it minimal, this technique can be soothing and meaningful.

Mixed Media Collages
Not into painting? Try layering scrapbook paper, washi tape, stickers, or magazine clippings to create a visual representation of what a verse means to you.

Illustrated Verses
If a verse speaks about a tree, anchor, or light, why not sketch a simple symbol to go with it? Visuals can help bring the Scripture to life in a new way.

Interactive Pages
Want to take it up a notch? Some journalers create fold-out pages, flip cards, or pop-ups for deeper reflection and engagement with the text.

You Don’t Have to Be an Artist—Just Be Present

The possibilities with Bible journaling are endless, but the goal isn’t perfection—it’s connection.

Whether you’re drawing, writing, highlighting, or simply reflecting, Bible journaling is a way to slow down, focus on God’s truth, and make Scripture more personal.

So grab your Bible, some supplies (or just a pen), and let God’s Word inspire your creativity.

Watch the video below for real-life Bible journaling examples!

Bible Journaling Supplies for Beginners: What You Really Need to Get Started

Let’s be honest—walking into a craft store can feel overwhelming. So. Many. Options.

But here’s the good news: you don’t need a suitcase full of supplies to start Bible journaling.

You just need a few simple tools to engage with Scripture in a meaningful way—without the pressure of being “artistic.”

Must-Have Bible Journaling Supplies

A Journaling Bible
The right Bible makes a huge difference! Look for one with wide margins, thicker pages, or a format that gives you space to write, doodle, or add notes.

A Good Pen (That Won’t Bleed Through)
A smooth, no-smudge pen is a must! Micron pens, gel pens, or archival-quality ink work great for taking notes and underlining without ghosting onto the next page.

Colored Pencils or Highlighters
Highlight key verses, add soft shading, or write in color-coded themes. Watercolor pencils and Bible-safe highlighters are perfect for adding depth without damaging pages.

Sticky Notes or Tip-Ins
Need extra space? Use sticky notes or attach small cards to add prayers, reflections, or extra insights to your pages.

Washi Tape & Stickers (For Easy Creativity)
Not into drawing? No worries! Stickers, washi tape, and stencils make it easy to decorate your pages without needing artistic skills.

Acrylic Gesso (If You Want to Paint)
If you want to try watercolor or acrylic paints, gesso creates a barrier to protect the thin Bible pages from bleeding through.

You Don’t Need a Ton of Supplies—Just a Willing Heart

Bible journaling isn’t about having the prettiest pages—it’s about engaging with God’s Word in a way that feels personal and meaningful to you.

Start simple. A Bible, a pen, and an open heart are more than enough.

Bible Study Journal Ideas

Recent images of my Scripture Writing and Bible Study Journal Ideas on Instagram!

Feeling alone in your faith journey? You don’t have to be.
Come join my online women’s Bible study—where real-life struggles meet real community. Grow in your walk with God, find encouragement for the hard days, and build soul-deep friendships with women who get it.
No pressure. No pretending. Just Jesus, coffee, and sisters who care.