Road Trippin With Rachael

We have a bit of time in between our Bible Studies we’ve been working through this year and the start of our Advent studies, so I decided to take the next few months and share my opinions on a few different topics. Please note that I’m not endorsed by any of the publishers I mention or Bible translations – I’m only sharing my opinions.

Selecting your Bible is both very personal, but also practical. Every believer should have a copy of God’s word in the United States – this will be the area focused on for this blog. There are many different versions available, produced by a variety of publishing houses. However, narrowing down which one is the best fit for you can be a bit of a process, but definitely doable. Here are some questions to ask while making your selection.

1. How do I plan to use it? You’re going to read it of course – but what I’m actually asking is am I going to be tucking this into my purse to read on my lunch breaks or will I be doing a Bible Study with it? Bible design has come a long way in the last decade resulting in study Bibles, slimline, chain reference, and even journaling Bibles. If you want something light to carry – slimline or chain reference is going to be what you want to look for. However, if you are wanting to be more of a Bible note taker, doodle while you read, or want additional notes for sermons and studies you should consider a study Bible. 
2. What version do I want? Different publishing houses have produced several different versions of the Bible. Some of the most popular are: New International Version (NIV), New Living Translation (NLT), Christian Standard Bible (CSB), English Standard Version (ESV), King James Version (KJV), New King James Version (NKJV), and New American Standard Bible (NASB). Some things to think about would be the one that your church uses. If the majority of the preaching is done out of an NIV Bible it might be worth considering so you can read along during the service – although that isn’t a necessity. Also look at different versions to see what you are the most comfortable with. 
3. What is my budget? Bibles can range anywhere from $5 to over $100 depending on the type and cover material, and if they are considered a specialty Bible – like a larger font. Cover materials (not counting evangelism Bibles – those with paper covers) are typically hardcover, synthetic leather, or leather. Needless to say that hardcover Bibles are normally the least expensive.  

There isn’t a wrong Bible for you to select. All you need to do is find one that you like, that you will use, and that you are able to understand. And if you are looking to purchase a Bible for someone else, I recommend taking them with you so they can pick out their own copy or if this is for your son or daughter to go for a CSB or NIV as they tend to be some of the easier to read, but just enough upper vocabulary that they will use them for years to come.