10 Best Journaling Bibles 2025 in the United States

This Personalized NIV Journaling Bible is a great choice for those looking to combine scripture study with note-taking. It uses the widely respected New International Version (NIV) translation, known for its clear and modern language, making it suitable for both newcomers and seasoned readers. The Bible features lined wide margins, which are perfect for journaling or writing personal reflections, and thick cream-colored paper that helps prevent ink bleed-through, enhancing the writing experience. Its double-column format offers a traditional Bible layout, though some might find the 8-point font a bit small for comfortable reading, especially if you prefer larger text. The brown faux leather cover with a gold cross gives it an elegant yet durable feel without the expense of genuine leather.

At 8.25 by 7 inches and just over an inch thick, this Bible balances portability with enough space for writing. Personalization adds a special touch, with custom names hand-lettered by a calligrapher—ideal for gifts or keepsakes. Additional thoughtful features include Jesus' words printed in red for easy identification and a satin ribbon marker to keep your place. A meaningful bonus is that purchasing this Bible contributes to donating Bibles worldwide, adding to its value for those who appreciate giving back.

This Bible suits anyone looking to deepen their study through journaling or seeking a thoughtful, personalized gift.

The NIV Journal the Word Bible is a thoughtful choice for individuals who enjoy journaling alongside their scripture study. The New International Version (NIV) translation is well-regarded for its balance of readability and faithfulness to the original texts, making it accessible for a broad audience, including young teens and adults. Its double-column layout enhances readability, allowing users to easily locate verses and take notes on the same page, which is perfect for those who want to reflect on their thoughts or create art beside their favorite passages.

When it comes to paper quality, this Bible is designed for journaling, featuring thicker pages that are less prone to bleed-through, making it suitable for various writing instruments, including pens and markers. The cloth-over-board cover not only adds a touch of elegance but also provides durability, which is great for those who may carry their Bible around for study sessions or church activities.

In terms of size, it measures 7 x 1.4 x 8.35 inches and weighs 2.31 pounds, which strikes a balance between being portable and having enough space for comfortable note-taking. However, it might be a bit heavy for some users who prefer a lighter option for daily carry. While the red-letter feature (which highlights the words of Jesus in red) is helpful for quick reference, some users may find it distracting. Additionally, the hardcover might not be as flexible as a paperback, which can make it a little less convenient for casual reading on the go. The Bible is targeted towards grades 7 and up, which may limit its appeal to younger audiences seeking a more age-appropriate version.

The NIV Journal the Word Bible is well-suited for those who appreciate journaling and taking notes within their scripture reading, combining quality translation and thoughtful design. However, potential users should consider the weight and cover style based on their personal preferences.

The ESV Journaling Bible (Cloth over Board, Flowers) is a beautiful and functional option for those who enjoy combining their Bible reading with personal notes and reflections. Its English Standard Version (ESV) translation is known for its accuracy and readability, making it a reliable choice for study and personal use.

The page layout is designed to leave ample margins for note-taking, which is a distinctive feature for journaling Bibles. The paper quality is generally good but may be on the thinner side, common with many Bibles, which means ink might bleed through with certain pens or markers.

The cover material, cloth over board, adds a touch of elegance and durability, while the floral design makes it visually appealing. In terms of size and portability, this Bible is relatively compact with dimensions of 6.25 x 1.63 x 7.25 inches, and a weight of 2.31 pounds, making it portable enough for daily use and travel. Additional features like the beautiful hardcover and high-quality binding contribute to its durability and aesthetic appeal. However, it does not include extra tools such as a concordance or maps, which some users might find useful for deeper study. This journaling Bible is well-suited for individuals who value a combination of aesthetic appeal and practical functionality in their personal Bible study.