Let’s Talk About How to Annotate Your Bible (and Why It Matters)
Hey sweet friends 💕—if you’ve ever scrolled through Instagram and seen those beautifully marked-up Bibles with colorful notes and perfect lettering, you might have thought, “Mine could never look like that.”
But here’s the truth: your Bible doesn’t need to look perfect—it just needs to be used.
Bible annotation isn’t about aesthetics; it’s about meeting with Jesus on every page. When we write, highlight, or doodle in our Bibles, we’re not just making it pretty—we’re helping our hearts engage with God’s living Word.
Why Bible Annotation Is So Powerful
When you slow down and interact with the Word—circling promises, underlining commands, jotting prayers in the margins—you’re doing something incredibly spiritual: you’re hiding God’s Word in your heart (Psalm 119:11).
Annotating helps you:
It’s not about creating a “perfect Bible.” It’s about creating space for God to speak.
HOW I ANNOTATE & HIGHLIGHT IN MY BIBLE VIDEO :
How to Annotate Your Bible (Step by Step)
If you’ve ever wondered how to start annotating your Bible, here’s an easy system that keeps things meaningful and stress-free.
1. Start With the Purpose
Before you even grab your pens, highlighters, pause and pray. Ask the Lord to show you what He wants to teach you through His Word.
Your goal isn’t to decorate—it’s to delight. You’re highlighting God’s truth so you can remember and live it.
2. Use a Color-Coded System
This is where it gets fun! Try using these colors from the Bible Annotation & Highlighting Guide (your free printable below 👇):
- 💜 Purple: Who God is — His attributes, names, and actions.
- 💚 Green: Commands and steps to obey.
- 💛 Yellow: Prayers found in Scripture.
- 🧡 Orange: Key themes or repeated phrases.
- 💙 Blue: God’s promises.
Each color helps your eyes and mind recognize truth at a glance. Over time, your Bible will visually tell the story of God’s heart and His faithfulness.
3. Add Notes and Annotations
Now, this is where Bible annotation truly comes alive! Try adding:
These little notes make your Bible uniquely yours. They capture your walk with God in this season of life.
Why You’ll Love This “How to Annotate Your Bible” Download
I created a free Bible Annotation & Highlighting Guide for YOU! It’s a simple printable that shows you which colors I personally use and what I focus on as I study. Feel free to use this either as your own guide on How to Annotate Your Bible or as a template to make your own.
Inside, you’ll find:
Grab your free printable guide to how I annotate and highlight my Bible.
How to Annotate Your Bible & Highlight Guide
See How I Annotate & Highlight in My Bible
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A Little Encouragement Before You Go
Sister, don’t get caught up in comparison or perfectionism. Your Bible doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s—it’s between you and Jesus.
As you read, highlight, and write, remember this truth:
“Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” – James 4:8
Let every highlight and every note be an act of worship. God delights in your desire to know Him.
FAQ: How to Annotate Your Bible
Q: What do I need to start Bible annotation?
A: Just your Bible, a few colored pens or highlighters, and a willing heart! (Bonus: grab the free printable to guide you.)
Q: What if I’m not artistic?
A: No problem at all! Bible annotation isn’t about art—it’s about attention. Focus on connecting with God, not creating something picture-perfect.
Q: Can I start in the middle of my reading plan?
A: Absolutely. Start right where you are! Every verse you read can become a place of discovery.
Final Thought
The goal of Bible annotation isn’t to make your Bible beautiful—it’s to make your heart beautiful as it soaks in God’s truth.
So grab your pens, download your free guide, and spend time with the One who loves you most. 💖
Are you ready for a deeper Bible Study?
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12 guided courses that train you to read in context, think theologically, and apply truth—one clear step at a time.
Wow. I am truly blown away by Bible Study Academy.
Ashley, Taylor, Mentor Mama, and Isabela really poured their hearts into these courses and it shows in every step of the way.
Read more from Kathryn
I came into this with prior knowledge but still walked away having learned so many new techniques, methods, and with a renewed mindset. taste.
Each course builds on the next, as well as, helps to build your confidence, so I highly recommend completing them all, although doing any will be beneficial.
They added valuable articles, resources, and suggestions that truly brought it all together, enriching my studies and time through each course.
I highly recommend this for anyone wanting to dig deeper into Gods Word. Thank you ladies so much for taking the time to share your knowledge and experience.
☕️ -Kathryn