Tag: bible study

Thanksgiving Bible Verses for Gratitude and Thankfulness

Posted on by Donna Snow

As Thanksgiving approaches, hearts turn toward giving thanks for the good things Christ Jesus brings us daily. His steadfast love sees us through each day regardless of difficult times. Learning Bible verses of gratitude and thanksgiving are key.

Contents

Why Give Thanks?

Thankfulness to our great God expresses gratitude for all that He has done for us. Give a great shout in a loud voice! The glory of God and His wonderful works accomplish great things. 

The perfect gift of Jesus’ atoning sacrifice and the constant presence of the Holy Spirit tell of His unwavering, unconditional love for us. Each of us has a hungry soul, a longing soul, to experience God’s love in our everyday life because it may be missing everywhere else.

A heart of gratitude and thankfulness allows the peace of Christ to rule over our lives. All of us can use peace, can’t we? Especially around big holidays when a busy schedule and family/church commitments rush in. Try keeping a gratitude journal!

Is Giving Thanks Important?

Offering God thanksgiving is an integral part of our faith life. Through it, God strengthens our faith, nurtures a thankful heart, and opens our eyes to His wondrous works and wonderful deeds.

The name of God is above every name. We have a voice of joy to express our thanks through the Spirit. Whether through a good report, a psalm of praise, or joy despite hard times, the Lord of lords is faithful to provide for our every need.

Gratitude helps us remember every good gift and abundant grace that the Most High has bestowed on us. These thanksgiving scriptures will help you express gratitude to the God of heaven.

25 Bible Verses for Giving Thanks

Here are some key verses from the Word of God for this Thanksgiving Day or any time with a voice of gladness. I have included several translations so that you can pick the ones most meaningful to you.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

ESV: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

KJV: “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

NIV: “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

NLT: “Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.”

2 Corinthians 9:15

ESV: “Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift!”

KJV: “Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.”

NIV: “Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!”

NLT: “Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words!”

Psalm 103:1-4

ESV: “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His Holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy.”

KJV: “Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies.”

NIV: “Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins    and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion.”

NLT: “Let all that I am praise the Lord; with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name. Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things he does for me. He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases. He redeems me from death and crowns me with love and tender mercies.”

Psalm 119:1-8 

ESV: “Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord! Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who seek him with their whole heart, who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways! You have commanded your precepts to be kept diligently. Oh that my ways may be steadfast in keeping your statutes! Then I shall not be put to shame, having my eyes fixed on all your commandments. I will praise you with an upright heart, when I learn your righteous rules. I will keep your statutes; do not utterly forsake me!”

KJV

“Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord. Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart. They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways. Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently. O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes! Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments. I will praise thee with uprightness of heart, when I shall have learned thy righteous judgments. I will keep thy statutes: O forsake me not utterly.”

NIV

“Blessed are those whose ways are blameless, who walk according to the law of the Lord. Blessed are those who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart—they do no wrong but follow his ways. You have laid down precepts that are to be fully obeyed. Oh, that my ways were steadfast in obeying your decrees! Then I would not be put to shame when I consider all your commands. I will praise you with an upright heart as I learn your righteous laws. I will obey your decrees; do not utterly forsake me.”

NLT

“Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the Lord. Joyful are those who obey his laws and search for him with all their hearts. They do not compromise with evil, and they walk only in his paths. You have charged us to keep your commandments carefully. Oh, that my actions would consistently reflect your decrees! Then I will not be ashamed when I compare my life with your commands. As I learn your righteous regulations, I will thank you by living as I should! I will obey your decrees. Please don’t give up on me!”

Colossians 2:6-7 

ESV: “As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith, as you have been taught, abounding in it with thanksgiving.”

KJV: “As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.”

NIV: “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.”

NLT: “And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.”

Hebrews 13:15-16

ESV: “Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.”

KJV: “By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.”

NIV: “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess His name. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”

NLT: “Therefore, let us offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming our allegiance to his name. And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God.”

Isaiah 12:4-5

ESV: “Give thanks to the Lord, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the peoples, proclaim that his name is exalted. Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously; let this be made known in all the earth.”

KJV: “Praise the Lord, call upon his name, declare his doings among the people, make mention that his name is exalted. Sing unto the Lord; for he hath done excellent things: this is known in all the earth.”

NIV: “Give praise to the Lord, proclaim His name; make known among the nations what He has done, and proclaim that His name is exalted. Sing to the Lord, for He has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world.”

NLT: “Thank the Lord! Praise his name! Tell the nations what he has done. Let them know how mighty he is! Sing to the Lord, for he has done wonderful things. Make known his praise around the world.”

Ephesians 5:18-20

ESV: “And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart, giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

KJV: “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

NIV: “Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing songs of praise from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

NLT: “Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

James 1:17

ESV: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.”

KJV: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.”

NIV: “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”

NLT: “Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow.”

1 Chronicles 29:12-13

ESV: “Both riches and honor come from you, and you rule over all. In your hand are power and might, and in your hand, it is to make great and to give strength to all. And now we thank you, our God, and praise your glorious name.”

KJV: “Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all. Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name.”

NIV: “Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.”

NLT: “Wealth and honor come from you alone, for you rule over everything. Power and might are in your hand, and at your discretion people are made great and given strength. O our God, we thank you and praise your glorious name!”

Hebrews 12:28

ESV: “Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe.”

KJV: “Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.”

NIV: “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.”

NLT: “Since we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping him with holy fear and awe.”

Colossians 3:15-17

ESV: “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

KJV

“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.”

NIV

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing to God with a grateful heart. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

NLT: “And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.”

Psalm 118:24

ESV: “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

KJV: “This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”

NIV: “The Lord has done it this very day; let us rejoice today and be glad.”

NLT: “This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.”

Psalm 95:1-5

ESV: “Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Let us come into His presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to Him with songs of praise! For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods. In His hand are the depths of the earth; the heights of the mountains are His also. The sea is His, for he made it, and His hands formed the dry land.”

KJV

“O come, let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation. Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms. For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods. In his hand are the deep places of the earth: the strength of the hills is his also. The sea is his, and he made it: and his hands formed the dry land.”

NIV

“Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. For the Lord is the great God, the great King above all gods. In his hand are the depths of the earth, and the mountain peaks belong to him. The sea is his, for he made it, and his hands formed the dry land.”

NLT

“Come, let us sing to the Lord! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation. Come to him with thanksgiving. Let us sing psalms of praise to him. For the Lord is a great God, a great King above all gods. He holds in his hands the depths of the earth and the mightiest mountains. The sea belongs to him, for he made it. His hands formed the dry land, too.”

Philippians 4:4-7

ESV: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

KJV: “Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

NIV: “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

NLT: “Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”

1 Chronicles 16:34

ESV: “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever!”

KJV: “O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.”

NIV: “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.”

NLT: “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.”

Psalm 107:1-3

ESV: “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever! Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he has redeemed from trouble and gathered in from the lands, from the east and from the west, from the north and from the south.”

KJV: “O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy; and gathered them out of the lands, from the east, and from the west, from the north, and from the south.”

NIV: “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story—those he redeemed from the hand of the foe, those he gathered from the lands, from east and west, from north and south.”

NLT: “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever. Has the Lord redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others he has redeemed you from your enemies. For he has gathered the exiles from many lands, from east and west, from north and south.”

2 Corinthians 1:3-4

ESV: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.”

KJV: “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”

NIV: “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”

NLT: “All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.”

Psalm 50:14-15

ESV: “Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and perform your vows to the Most High, and call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify me.”

KJV: “Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High: And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.”

NIV: “Sacrifice thank offerings to God, fulfill your vows to the Most High, and call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me.”

NLT: “Make thankfulness your sacrifice to God, and keep the vows you made to the Most High. Then call on me when you are in trouble, and I will rescue you, and you will give me glory.”

Psalm 28:7

ESV: “The Lord is my strength and my shield; in him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to him.”

KJV: “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.”

NIV: “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.”

NLT: “The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.”

Acts 4:33

ESV: “And with great power the apostles were giving their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and the grace of God was upon them all.”

KJV: “And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.”

NIV: “With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And God’s grace was so powerfully at work in them all.”

NLT: “The apostles testified powerfully to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God’s great blessing was upon them all.”

Jonah 2:9

ESV: “But I with the voice of thanksgiving will sacrifice to you; what I have vowed I will pay. Salvation belongs to the Lord!”

KJV: “But I will sacrifice unto thee with the voice of thanksgiving; I will pay that that I have vowed. Salvation is of the Lord.”

NIV: “But I, with shouts of grateful praise, will sacrifice to you. What I have vowed I will make good. I will say, ‘Salvation comes from the Lord.'”

NLT: “But I will offer sacrifices to you with songs of praise, and I will fulfill all my vows. For my salvation comes from the Lord alone.”

2 Corinthians 9:11

ESV: “You are enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God.”

KJV: “Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.”

NIV: “God enriches you in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.”

NLT: “Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God.”

Ephesians 5:4

ESV: “Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving.”

KJV: “Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.”

NIV: “Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.”

NLT: “Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God.”

Philippians 1:3-5

ESV: “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.”

KJV: “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now.”

NIV: “I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.”

NLT: “Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy, for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now.”

Free Printable Downloads

If you would like to print these 25 Bible verses to tuck into your Bible, here is a list for each of the four translations. Pick your favorite and share!

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About the Author
Donna is a sought-after author, speaker, and Bible teacher. Her path from being unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was not easy. Read her God-breathed journey: “From Unchurched to Becoming a Multi-Published Author and Sought-After Speaker.” If you want to send Donna a quick message, then visit her here.

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52 Powerful Tuesday Morning Blessings and Bible Verses

Posted on by Donna Snow

A beautiful day always starts with realizing just how abundantly God’s blessings pour over your life. Tuesday morning blessings are just as important as any other day of the week.

First of all, you woke up. You have breath in your lungs. You have eyes to see and read. Just those three truths are very good things.

Even though these are Tuesday Blessings, these 52 inspirational Bible verses and morning prayers can make each Tuesday of the year a blessed day.

Contents

Starting a New Day Well

Any good day starts with the right mindset. Monday is over and you survived! Perhaps you thrived.

So what is your mindset for Tuesday’s fresh start? Remembering the steadfast love of the Lord is a great way to begin.

Regardless of what happened on Monday or what awaits the rest of this week, the good news is that today is a new beginning.

And what better way to start your path today than by being inspired? 

Inspirational Quotes for Tuesday Morning Blessings

Being inspired toward great things helps you appreciate the gift of life. Many opportunities await. You awoke with air in your lungs, so use it toward something positive.

A Spiritual Prayer for Tuesday

A good Tuesday morning begins with prayer. When you hand over your worries for the day, the peace of God provides a clear mind and the right perspective.

  • Dear Lord, You have given me the perfect gift of a new day. Give me word of Your unfailing love. Regardless of what happens to my outer self, let my inner self focus on You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
  • Lord Jesus Christ, You have given me Your good gift of eternal life. This morning is a gift. Give me the mindset not to waste this day. Increase my own understanding of Your love. Help me reflect that love to everyone. Let others see You in the words of my mouth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
  • Dear Heavenly Father, as the sun rises today may Your face shine upon me. Let me seek Your way today so that Your light shines through my good work. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
  • Dear God, I admit that my prayer life has been spotty at best. Remind me today that Your righteous right hand guides me. Show me the best way forward today to operate in and spread Your unshakable joy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
  • Christ Jesus, You rule over this whole earth. I entrust my day to Your capable hands. You can do so much more with it than me! I pray that You make it a lovely Tuesday. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

See also: Is the Lord’s Prayer in the Old Testament?

Bible Verse for Tuesday Morning Prayer

There are numerous passages from the Word of God that can be used as Tuesday prayer messages to the Lord. Here are five good morning Bible verses that are excellent places to start:

  • “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24, ESV). 
  • “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22-23, ESV). 
  • “Let me hear of Your unfailing love each morning, for I am trusting in You. Show me where to walk, for I give myself to You” (Psalm 143:8, NLT). 
  • “Yet I am confident I will see the Lord’s goodness while I am here in the land of the living” (Psalm 27:13, NLT).
  • “The Lord is good to those who wait for Him, to the soul who seeks Him” (Lamentations 3:25, ESV). 

What’s a Good Saying for Tuesday?

Countless writers and poets have penned inspirational and motivational words that offer an excellent perspective to start a wonderful day. 

Setting Your Mind for a Lovely Day

This world is full of hurt, strife, and anxiety. Setting your mind on God’s love for you is one of the best good morning blessings. These Bible verses can help accomplish that:

  • “For God so loved the world, that He gave his only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16, ESV). 
  • “But God shows His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8, ESV). 
  • “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness” (Jeremiah 31:3, NIV). 
  • “For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With His love, He will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with singing” (Zephaniah 3:17, NLT).  
  • “But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved” (Ephesians 2:4-5, NIV).

Good Morning Tuesday Blessings

Every single day you wake up under the direct blessings of God. Rather than listing them for you, take some time pondering these things and giving thanks to God for them.

  • You woke up today with breath in your lungs and the gift of eyesight. Thank you, Lord.
  • You received an education that allows you the blessing to be able to read. Thank you, Lord.
  • God has given you the faith to believe that He is God who sacrificed His Son to give you the hope of eternity with Him. Thank you, Lord.
  • God has provided you with shelter, food, and your basic needs to get through today. Thank you, Lord.
  • God has given you a brain, knowledge, and opportunities to read His life-giving Word. Thank you, Lord.

Also, see my post: 70 Inspirational Friday Bible Verses and Prayer Blessings.

Gratitude for a Happy Tuesday

When you focus on gratitude, there is little room left for complaining. Gratitude shifts your focus upward, past any momentary affliction. Here are some Bible verses to include in your daily prayer of gratitude for the entire day.

  • “But be sure to fear the Lord and serve Him faithfully with all your heart; consider what great things He has done for you” (1 Samuel 12:24, NIV). 
  • “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful” (Colossians 3:15, NIV).
  • “Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, NLT).
  • “Let all that I am praise the Lord; may I never forget the good things He does for me. He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases. He redeems me from death and crowns me with love and tender mercies. He fills my life with good things” (Psalm 103:2-5, NLT).
  • “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13, ESV). 

Thankful Prayer for a Blessed Tuesday

Besides the many popular prayers that you can offer for provision and favor, giving thanks to God is a truly beautiful way to start your day.

Daily morning prayer initiates a thoughtful Tuesday focused on God. It truly prepares your heart to face anything that Tuesday can throw at you! 

  • O Lord, you are the God of hope! I pray that You inspire me to appreciate the small things today. Whether it’s an excellent cup of coffee or noticing a lovely flower, remind me to give You thanks and praise. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
  • O God, I am so thankful for your Holy Scriptures. Regardless of anything that I face today or the rest of my life, Your Word provides guidance, wisdom, and encouragement. Thank you, Lord God. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
  • Jesus, I am so thankful that Your perfect love drives out fear. I am complete in You. I am perfectly loved by You. Let me live in those assurances today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
  • Father, thank you for this new day. I don’t know everything that awaits me, but You do. Your watchful care gives me ultimate peace. Thank you, Lord! In Jesus’ name, Amen.
  • Heavenly Father, I am so thankful for every blessing that You pour into my life. Thank you for protecting me through this day and loving me more than I can possibly imagine. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Beautiful Tuesday Morning in God’s Word

One of the greatest blessings that God has given us is His Word. Faithful Bible study reveals God’s strength, wisdom, and unwavering faithfulness. Any beautiful day begins in Scripture, so here we go.

  • “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope” (Romans 15:13, ESV). 
  • “​For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39, ESV). 

Courage for Tuesday

I admit it. Some days I don’t feel very brave. If you struggle with that some days, these verses are perfect.

  • “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you” (Deuteronomy 31:6, NIV). 
  • Jesus replied, “What is impossible with man is possible with God” (Luke 18:27, NIV). 
  • “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6, NIV).

Download free: Scripture From Scratch: Gospel Outlines to tuck into your Bible.

Scripture from Scratch

Possibilities and blessings abound on Tuesdays! Start with the name of the Father on your lips and Bible study under your belt. His Word hidden in your heart provides the foundation for an incredible day.

Related and Popular Posts:

About the Author
Donna is a sought-after author, speaker, and Bible teacher. Her path from being unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was not easy. Read her God-breathed journey: “From Unchurched to Becoming a Multi-Published Author and Sought-After Speaker.” If you want to send Donna a quick message, then visit her here.

{Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase through that link, the ministry may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!}

Is the Lord’s Prayer in the Old ​Testament?

Posted on by Donna Snow

The beautiful roots of the Lord’s Prayer in the Old ​Testament are clearly evident. Though the actual prayer appears only in the New Testament, its roots go way back.

That may come as a surprise, but Jesus was raised in the Jewish culture. Remembering that He shared that same Jewish heritage with the very disciples who asked how to pray helps your understanding. Let’s look closer.

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Contents

In Matthew 6 and Luke 11, Jesus instructs His disciples (and disciples today) how to pray. Arguably the most well-known prayer around the world, it is also known as the Our Father Prayer. 

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The Lord’s Prayer

From Matthew’s Gospel: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil” (Matthew 6:9-13, ESV).

From Luke’s Gospel: “Father, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread, and forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive everyone who is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation” (Luke 11:2-4, ESV). 

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The Context

Throughout the Gospels, Jesus Christ regularly went off to a quiet place to pray His own prayers. He understood that God’s help to carry out God’s will demanded significant time with His Heavenly Father. 

Jesus was doing exactly this when the disciples approached Him and asked: “Lord, teach us to pray” (Luke 11:1, ESV). Without hesitation, Jesus instructed them in this powerful prayer.

He did not propose a magic formula; rather, a model prayer to surrender your life to the will of God.

Christian traditions have added a closing phrase: “For Thine is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.” 

Jesus was sent first to the Jews (Romans 1:16; Matthew 15:24), and he was speaking to disciples who were Jewish. Those men of faith and passionate children of God had their feet firmly planted in Old Testament truth.

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Old Testament Roots

When Jesus answered His disciples’ question, He framed it in a familiar Jewish context. The Jewish law (The Torah) reigned supreme and taught the elements that all Jews were to include in their prayers. 

Jesus was raised Jewish, as were Jesus’ disciples. Though the Lord’s Prayer is a short prayer, it contains many of the Jewish elements. Reading the Jewish Bible in English is helpful.

The Torah refers to prayer as “the service of the heart.” It was considered an act suffused with love and reverence much like a child approaching a loving parent. 

Originally, the mitzvah to pray did not include any specific times, nor was there a defined text. Every individual chose his or her own words with which to address the Creator. 

There was, though, a standard format for prayer: praise for God, followed by asking Him for all one’s needs, followed by expressing gratitude for all God has done for His people—both collectively and individually.

Here are the elements of the Lord’s Prayer, along with the Old Testament Bible verses that show just how grounded it is in the Old Testament.

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Our Father

God’s name is central and the most important element so “Our Father” comes first. The Jews never uttered the proper name of God (even today) to avoid blasphemy. 

Consequently, they proclaimed God as “our Father”, as well:

  • “For you are our Father, though Abraham does not know us, and Israel does not acknowledge us; you, O Lord, are our Father, our Redeemer from of old is Your name” (Isaiah 63:16, ESV). 
  • “But now, O Lord, You are our Father; we are the clay, and you are out potter; we are all the work of Your hand” (Isaiah 64:8, ESV).
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Who Art in Heaven

Christ Jesus also affirmed to His disciples during His earthly ministry that God reigned in the kingdom of heaven. We also see this repeatedly in the Old Testament:

  • “O Lord, God of our fathers, are you not God in heaven? You rule over all the kingdoms of the nations. In your hand are power and might, so that none is able to withstand you” (2 Chronicles 20:6, ESV).
  • “Our God is in the heavens; He does all that He pleases” (Psalm 115:3, ESV).
  • “For thus says the One who is high and lifted up, who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: ‘I dwell in the high and holy place’” (Isaiah 57:15, ESV). 
  • “Thus says the Lord: ‘Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool'” (Isaiah 66:1, ESV). 
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Hallowed Be Thy Name

Holiness is not simply an attribute of God; rather it is the very nature of God. He is the One True God who laid the foundation of the world. Jesus included this truth as part of the prayer:

  • “​And you shall not profane my holy name, that I may be sanctified among the people of Israel. I am the Lord who sanctifies you” (Leviticus 22:32, ESV). 
  • “And your name will be magnified forever, saying, ‘The Lord of hosts is God over Israel,’ and the house of your servant David will be established before you” (2 Samuel 7:26, ESV).
  • “And one called to another and said: ‘Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!’” (Isaiah 6:3, ESV). 
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Thy Kingdom Come

As the Bread of Life, Jesus’ prayer bridged the Word of God beautifully between the Old and New Testaments. Consequently, he taught these founders of the early church about the coming kingdom of God:

  • “And in the days of those kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that shall never be destroyed, nor shall the kingdom be left to another people. It shall break in pieces all these kingdoms and bring them to an end, and it shall stand forever” (Daniel 2:44, ESV). 
  • “Behold, your King is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is He, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey” (Zechariah 9:9, ESV). 
Qumran-Israel

Thy Will Be Done

God’s will and God’s plan will never change nor fail. By including those truths in the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus conveyed that the new covenant believers were to trust God’s perfect will for everyday life, just as believers of old:

  • “He does according to His will among the host of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth” (Daniel 4:35, ESV). 
  • “Teach me to do Your will, for You are my God! Let Your good Spirit lead me on level ground!” (Psalm 143:10, ESV).
praying-hands

On Earth As It Is In Heaven

Jesus knew that it would be helpful for His disciples to understand that a believer’s walk is not always going to be easy. Nor was it during Old Testament times. 

God’s will on earth unmistakably reigns supreme, just as it does in heaven. This means that God will protect us from all evil – even to the point of sacrificing His only Son.

Martin Luther put it this way: “If we would be Christians, therefore, we must surely expect and count on having the devil with all his angels and the world as our enemies.”

  • “You are the Lord, you alone. You have made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them” (Nehemiah 9:6, ESV). 
  • “He does according to His will among the host of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth” (Daniel 4:35, ESV). 
Bethlehem-Church-of-the-Nativity-Israel

Our Daily Bread

​Because of Jesus, the Bread of Life, we have the good news of His presence and God’s love. 

  • “This is what the Lord has commanded: ‘Gather of it, each one of you, as much as he can eat. You shall each take an omer, according to the number of the persons that each of you has in his tent’” (Exodus 16:16, ESV).
  • “He will dwell on the heights; his place of defense will be the fortresses of rocks; his bread will be given him; his water will be sure” (Isaiah 33:16, ESV). 
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Forgive Us Our Debts

We cannot wipe our own sin away. We cannot cleanse our souls from it, either. Only God can do that. 

Just as the prophets of old fell on their faces before God asking for forgiveness of sins, we do likewise today. Not just to assuage a guilty conscience, but so that God can remove that sin and wash us white as snow.

Keeping open, honest communication with God in prayer and confession, God’s forgiveness washes over us without hesitation. Jesus knew the disciples would desperately need to know that even when they sinned, they could still carry out Jesus’ ministry.

  • “Keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin” (Exodus 34:7, ESV).
  • “And listen to the plea of your servant and of your people Israel, when they pray toward this place. And listen in heaven your dwelling place, and when you hear, forgive” (1 Kings 8:30, ESV). 
  • “Who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy” (Psalm 103:3-4, ESV). 
bible-verse

As We Forgive Our Debtors

​Forgiving those who have hurt us can be one of the hardest things we ever face. In fact, I wrote a whole book about forgiveness as a Bible study. 

However, forgiving others with a sincere heart frees us from the cage of anger and bitterness. Unforgiveness hurts ourselves, not the offender.

See my post: What Does the Bible Say About Forgive and Forget?

Just as God told His people in the Old Testament, Jesus reminds His disciples today that we need to extend forgiveness as relentlessly as He does.

  • “Please forgive the trespass of your servant. For the Lord will certainly make my lord a sure house, because my lord is fighting the battles of the Lord” (1 Samuel 25:28, ESV). 
  • “Then they said, ‘We will restore these and require nothing from them. We will do as you say‘” (Nehemiah 5:12, ESV). 
forgiveness-bible-study

Lead Us Not Into Temptation

Jesus knew from firsthand experience that our spiritual enemy tirelessly tempts us.

With perfect wisdom, He knew that His disciples (both then and now) would need the strength of God Almighty to withstand it, just as believers had for centuries.

  • “For those who guide this people have been leading them astray, and those who are guided by them are swallowed up” (Isaiah 9:16, ESV). 
  • “A man of violence entices his neighbor and leads him in a way that is not good” (Proverbs 16:29, ESV). 

But Deliver Us From Evil

Anyone who does not believe that evil exists has not read Scripture.

Again, Jesus bridges the Old and New Testaments by warning that it not only exists but that only God can deliver believers from it.

  • “The Lord will keep you from all evil; he will keep your life” (Psalm 121:7, ESV). 
  • “I will deliver you out of the hand of the wicked, and redeem you from the grasp of the ruthless” (Jeremiah 15:21, ESV). 
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Kingdom, Power, and Glory

Although the Gospel of Matthew does not record the end of the Lord’s Prayer as we say it today, the words are still rooted in Old Testament truth. The power and glory of God were brilliantly displayed as He rescued the Israelites from Egypt. 

His Kingdom, power, and glory shone brightest as He resurrected our Savior Jesus from the grave.

  • “Yours, O Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is Yours. Yours is the kingdom, O Lord” (1 Chronicles 29:11, ESV).
  • “And to Him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve Him” (Daniel 7:14, ESV). 
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Forever and Ever

Our Triune God existed before the timeline of eternity was even established.

Just as the Israelites learned in the Old Testament, Jesus wanted New Testament believers to know that He is the same yesterday, today, and for all eternity.

  • “But the saints of the Most High shall receive the kingdom and possess the kingdom forever, forever and ever” (Daniel 7:18, ESV). 
old-bible

Even though this common prayer that we share known as the Lord’s Prayer was memorialized by Jesus in the New Testament, all of the elements are rooted in God’s teaching since the days of Moses and the Patriarchs.

If you have not savored the words of the Lord’s Prayer recently, take some time right now to say it aloud slowly. And if you struggle keeping a regular prayer life, the Lord’s Prayer is a great place to start.

Let the full assurance of God’s grace and forgiveness take on a special meaning for you today.

Related Posts:

About the Author
Donna is a sought-after author, speaker, and Bible teacher. Her path from being unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was not easy. Read her God-breathed journey: “From Unchurched to Becoming a Multi-Published Author and Sought-After Speaker.” If you want to send Donna a quick message, then visit her here.

{Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase through that link, the ministry may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!}

The Shortest Books of the Bible in Order (Free Download)

Posted on by Donna Snow

Have you ever wondered which book of the entire Bible is the shortest? In the English translation, it is 2 John at 321 words. I didn’t know that!

In the Old Testament, the Book of Obadiah is the shortest book with 645 words in its single chapter. It is also the shortest book in the Hebrew language as it only contains 21 verses. 

In the New Testament books, the shortest book of the Bible in the original Greek is 3 John with a word count of about 200. 

Contents

Since most of us do not read the Word of God in its original languages (Hebrew, Greek, and Aramaic), I counted the number of words in English based on the ESV version, including chapter titles but not footnotes. 

Consequently, if you have challenged yourself to study the Bible by reading the shorter book to the longest book in order (and in English), then start with 2 John. 

Is Third John the Shortest Book in the New Testament?

In the original Greek language, the third Epistle of John wins the short book category. However, in the English language, the winner is second John. Actually, 2 John is a short letter rather than a book, which also contains the fewest verses. 

The Apostle John, who wrote the Gospel of John (as well as the prophetic Book of Revelation on the Island of Patmos), also wrote the general letters of 1, 2, and 3 John. 

Though these letters contain fewer words, their powerful message was to encourage believers in the wake of the rising controversy. Some believers had left their Christian congregations amidst rising trouble and false teachers.

The Top Five Shortest Books in the Bible

These five shorter books in the Bible contain the same number of chapters: only one. In order from the shortest first, they are:

  • 2 John: 321 words, 13 verses, 1 chapter
  • 3 John: 323 words, 15 verses, 1 chapter
  • Philemon: 496 words, 25 verses, 1 chapter
  • Jude: 639 words, 25 verses, 1 chapter
  • Obadiah: 645 words, 21 chapters, 1 chapter

What is the Longest Book in the Bible?

The Book of Psalms wins the prize for the longest book with 45,262 words and 2,461 verses contained in 150 chapters (again, in English). In fact, it has double the total number of verses to the second runner-up, the Book of Jeremiah (1,364 verses). 

In comparison to another poetry book, the Song of Solomon contains 2,750 words in 117 verses over 8 chapters.

The length of the books of the Bible varies greatly. However, its sacred texts reveal the meaning of life.

What is the First Book in the Bible?

The Book of Genesis is the first book of the Bible, as well as the first of the Old Testament books. It is the fourth longest book in Scripture with 38,302 words and 1,533 verses contained in 50 chapters. 

Genesis is a great place to start studying the historical books of the Old Testament. It lays the historical foundation for the entire Bible. It is the epic adventure of the people of Israel that points to a promised land through encounters with specific individuals.

From the first to the last book, Genesis to Revelation, we encounter major prophets, minor prophets of God, Israel’s history, and your future into eternity with Jesus.

What is the First Book of the New Testament?

The Book of Matthew is the first book in the Bible. It is also the first Gospel contained in the New Testament. It outlines the genealogy and life of Jesus. 

Matthew also shares the Good News of Salvation for new believers. Through this Gospel, you witness the saving ministry of Jesus for the first time in the New Testament.

There are four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. The first three are called the “Synoptic Gospels”, while John’s Gospel is unique.

Which is the Longest Gospel?

The Book of Luke comes in first as the longest Gospel with 26,461 words, with the Gospel of Mark as the shortest Gospel with 15,479 words. 

Incidentally, Luke’s Gospel is the longest book in the entire New Testament, with the Book of Acts coming in second at 24,845 words.

The Gospels hold the greatest love story of all time: Jesus Christ. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, those red letter words of Jesus in the Gospels still work to cultivate a strong faith in Christians today.

Where to Start Reading the Bible

As you work your way through Scripture in Bible study, you will eventually cover the whole thing. However, I suggest starting with the Book of John.

​John’s Gospel is the beautiful story of Jesus’ life. Since John wrote this Gospel decades after the other three, this Gospel contains stories not found anywhere else in the entire book. 

Then follow John with the Book of Romans. Romans teaches essential Christian doctrine and beliefs. Then follow Romans with the Book of Proverbs, which reveals how to live a good, God-honoring life.

Check out my list of the Best Books of the Bible to Read First.

Languages of the Bible

Scholars generally recognize three languages as original biblical languages: Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. 

The Old Testament is written primarily in Hebrew. It is commonly known as Biblical Hebrew because it differs from Modern Hebrew. 

The language of the New Testament is Koine, a form of Greek that was widely understood in the Mediterranean regions around 2,000 years ago.

However, neither Hebrew nor Greek was Jesus’ native tongue. He spoke in a third language which was used in the writing of some books of the Hebrew Bible: Aramaic.

Helpful Bible Study Tools

I became a Christian in my early twenties, about three decades ago. I literally opened a Bible for the first time and had no clue that there were Old and New Testaments. 

Bible study is now my passion. I am constantly journaling. Not just for head knowledge, but so that I know how to apply God’s truths to everyday life. Hard things like forgiving when I don’t feel like it. Can you relate?

I did not know who Jesus is, much less what He has done for all who believe that He is Lord and Savior. Here are some useful resources that I put together:

Helpful Topical Studies in the Bible

Aside from reading through the entire Bible, it is helpful to group certain topics to help us grasp certain truths in Scripture.

I put together these useful resources that you may find helpful as you familiarize yourself with Scripture:

The Truth Matters

In today’s world people want to embrace their own truth and live their lives accordingly. Some choices do not line up with the Word of God. However, knowing the unwavering truth of Scripture changes everything.

When you realize how much mercy and grace Jesus extends to you on a daily basis, it affects how you treat strangers. It encourages you to be kind even when you are frustrated. 

But most of all, it holds the truth that changes your eternity. Jesus Christ came to live the perfect life you couldn’t, took your sins on Him to the cross, and died on your behalf to save you from God’s wrath. 

Because of Jesus, you have the hope to live eternally where there are no more tears and no more pain. 

The Result

The Bible is not simply a book. It is God’s personal love letter to you. His perfect invitation to join Him in eternity through faith. And He will keep inviting you every single day. 

Whether you read Scripture in book order, chronological order, from shortest to longest, or one collection of books at a time, just start reading. God will change your life through it.

Free download:

books-of-the-bible

Related Posts:

About the Author
Donna is a sought-after author, speaker, and Bible teacher. Her path from being unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was not easy. Read her God-breathed journey: “From Unchurched to Becoming a Multi-Published Author and Sought-After Speaker.” If you want to send Donna a quick message, then visit her here.

{Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase through that link, the ministry may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!}

What Does the Bible Say About Coffee? 

Posted on by Donna Snow

There is almost nothing better than spending precious quiet moments with coffee in the morning before the chaos of the day begins. 

My morning routine is simple: make a fresh cup of coffee and settle into my prayer chair with God’s Word. Many of my favorite coffee mugs have a morning Bible verse printed on them. It is a peaceful, serene, God-focused start to my day.

That morning pause for coffee lovers and pondering God’s love is a perfect way to get ready for a long day ahead. It also provides time to reflect on those things we are grateful for. So does the Bible talk about coffee at all?

Contents

What Does the Bible Say About Coffee?

Coffee as we know it today likely did not exist during biblical times. At least, there is no official record or documentation about this intoxicating strong drink. However, there is an interesting argument (albeit satirical) that may reference coffee in the Bible from the Old Testament book of Isaiah.

A few interesting verses in Isaiah 51 and 52 reference, “Awake, awake! Stand up, O Jerusalem, You who have drunk at the hand of the Lord, the cup…of trembling, and drained it out” (Isaiah 51:17). So perhaps it is simply not God’s will that His people be tired and groggy!

However, partaking in the enjoyment of coffee invites you to pause and allow the renewal of your mind. Take a deep breath. Gaze at something other than a computer screen. Enjoy a chat with a friend.

There is nothing like a good cup of joe during times of trouble or solving practical problems as a warming source of comfort.

10 Bible Verses for Coffee Lovers

I have gathered some of my favorite Bible verses that could be applied to coffee (along with the interesting origin and historical facts) that can sit front and center with your morning coffee to make a merry heart about God’s provision.

1. “Give strong drink to the one who is perishing, and wine to those in bitter distress; let them drink and forget their poverty and remember their misery no more.” (Proverbs 31:6-7, ESV)

2. “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” (James 1:17, ESV)

Release Worry

3. “You cause grass to grow for the livestock and plants for people to use. You allow them to produce food from the earth—wine to make them glad, olive oil to soothe their skin, and bread to give them strength.” (Psalm 104:14-15, NLT)

4. “So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.” (Matthew 6:31-33, NLT)

Live in Hope

5. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23, NKJV)

6. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13, NKJV)

7. “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:31, NIV)

8. “Listen to my voice in the morning, Lord. Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly.” (Psalm 5:3, NLT)

For Your Wellbeing

9. ​”Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for God has already approved what you do.” (Ecclesiastes 9:7, NIV)

10. Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4, NIV)

Does the Bible Talk About Coffee?

The Bible does not specifically talk about coffee, but nowadays we certainly love talking about the glory of God and the means of grace while enjoying coffee, don’t we?

I love that such a simple thing as coffee can cause me to dig into the treasures of Scripture to discover a different verse and embrace new challenges of all kinds.

One of the most engaging ways to start a small group Bible study is by gathering at a local coffee shop. Meeting in such a non-threatening environment removes the stumbling block of church formality for people who are just starting to seek Jesus Christ. 

Scripture tells us that you and I are temples of the Holy Spirit. A spiritual act of worship means embracing the will of God every single day. I don’t know about you, but embracing that calling requires alertness and both eyes opened. That may be a tad dramatic, but coffee is my fuel of choice. 

Is Coffee Forbidden in the Bible?

The question of whether or not Jesus drank coffee in the New Testament has yet to be fully answered. Historical records show coffee appearing centuries after Jesus. Consequently, the Bible does not forbid coffee. 

In fact, there are numerous Bible verses that certainly could be applied to coffee drinkers. Personally, I believe coffee is one of the beautiful mercies of God for all of us non-early riser folks.

The best version of me appears after I have my morning coffee. Talk about new life (in alertness, at least)! Can I get an amen? 

You and I experience the love of the Father in so many ways, both large and small. Warming my hands and tummy with delicious coffee brings about much fruit in ministry.

The most effective way that I can focus on an intricately detailed biblical commentary is to do so with hot coffee steaming nearby. There is just something about a caffeinated living sacrifice that makes this Jesus girl tick.

The Origin of Coffee

The first recorded wild coffee plants, likely from Kefa, Ethiopia, were taken to southern Arabia for cultivation in the 15th century. There are many legends about the discovery of coffee, but the most popular is that of Kaldi, an Arab goatherder. 

In about 850 AD, Kaldi noticed his goats frolicking and full of energy after eating the red fruit of the coffee shrub. He supposedly sampled the berries of the evergreen bush on which his goats were feeding. After experiencing a sense of exhilaration, he proclaimed his discovery to the world.

Second only to oil, coffee is the most valuable legally traded commodity in the world. We love it, we rely on it, and we drink it in massive quantities. It is estimated that 2.25 billion cups of coffee are consumed each day worldwide. 

The History of Coffee Through the Ages

Whatever the actual origin of coffee, its stimulating effect undoubtedly made it popular throughout history.

Interestingly, Islamic authorities pronounced the drink intoxicating and therefore prohibited by the Quran. Many Muslims were attracted to the beverage as a substitute for alcohol, also prohibited by the Quran. 

Despite the threat of severe penalties, coffee drinking spread rapidly among Arabs and their neighbors and even gave rise to a new social and cultural entity, the coffeehouse. Caffeine addiction was here to stay.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, industrial roasting and grinding machines came into use, vacuum-sealed containers were invented for ground roasts, and decaffeination methods for green coffee beans were developed. Coffee in all its forms has found its way into homes across the globe. 

How Do You Process a Coffee Bean?

In October 2020, I visited Hawaii for the first time right after it opened following the pandemic. One of our stops was a coffee bean processing plant on the big island of Kona. It was fascinating to see the process firsthand!

Before coffee became our favorite morning beverage, it appeared in a variety of different preparations. In its unprocessed form, coffee is a cherry-like fruit, which becomes red when ripe; the coffee bean is found at the center of the red coffee fruit.

The ripened fruits of the coffee plant are known as coffee cherries, and each cherry generally contains two coffee seeds (“beans”) positioned flat against one another.

About 5 percent of the cherries contain only one seed; called pea berries, those single seeds are smaller and denser and produce, in the opinion of some, a sweeter, more flavorful coffee.

The cherries are removed from the coffee bean pods by drying the seeds. Three techniques are used for processing coffee: (1) the dry, or “natural,” process, (2) the wet (and washed) process, and (3) a hybrid process. The coffee resulting from those processes is called green coffee, which is then ready for roasting. 

Can Coffee Serve as An Outreach Opportunity?

If God is prompting you to engage in more outreach, suggest a coffee meet-up or Bible study at your local coffee shop. Away from the formality of a church and the familiarity of home, a coffee shop is relaxing enough yet just outside of your comfort zone to prompt meaningful discussions.

Such wonderful community-minded gatherings increase your own understanding of God in a non-church setting. It serves an important lesson as a reminder of God working in any setting and through any person.

Taking that outreach a step further, a local coffee shop with a food option also helps your community’s prosperity – especially if it is a family-owned small business. Building a rapport with your local community through a shared love of coffee can open the door for God’s presence to shine bright.

Final Thoughts

Each coffee drinker has their own way of justifying drinking their favorite brew. Just remember, like every other good thing in life, coffee is best when followed by this simple biblical guideline:

“I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but I will not be mastered by anything.” (1 Corinthians 6:12, NIV)

So, perhaps, three cups of coffee a day would be more beneficial than three entire pots of coffee. However, I am not here to pass judgment. 

So start your day in a beautiful way. Grab your favorite coffee, a fresh journal, and the Word of God during your quiet morning time. I’ll be here in my Texas cottage doing the very same thing. Just pass the cream and sugar, please.

Related Posts:

About the Author
Donna is a sought-after author, speaker, and Bible teacher. Her path from being unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was not easy. Read her God-breathed journey: “From Unchurched to Becoming a Multi-Published Author and Sought-After Speaker.” If you want to send Donna a quick message, then visit her here.

{Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase through that link, the ministry may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!}

70 Inspirational Friday Bible Verses and Prayer Blessings

Posted on by Donna Snow

Every morning needs prayers and blessings from God’s Word and that certainly includes Friday. Consequently, inspirational Friday Bible verses and prayer prompts can uplift your heart.

Even though I sometimes view Friday as the best day of the week, it can certainly be challenging for various reasons.

​Whether you are a fan of Friday or not, it is still a day that the Lord has made, so we can rejoice and be glad in it! (Psalm 118:24) So pour some coffee or tea into an inspirational mug and let’s dive into Friday.

I searched Scripture to glean many good things from the Word of God to bless your Friday morning. You can use these as anchors for your day or pass them along to someone who may need the good gift of a beautiful day.

Here are some good morning Friday blessings sorted by categories so that you can easily find the ones that offer the perfect gift for you today. 

Contents

  1. Friday Prayer Blessings About the Love of God
  2. Good Friday Quotes About the Work Week
  3. Friday Encouragement for Friends
  4. Friday Quotes for a Blessing-Filled Day
  5. Friday Morning Motivation for a Great Day
  6. Prayers and Wisdom for Friday Night
  7. Good News Despite Hard Times
  8. Good Deeds for a Blessed Friday
  9. Inspirational Bible Verses About the Peace of God
  10. Joy-Filled Friday Bible Verses
  11. Friday Thanksgiving to the Lord

If the prayer or blessing are Scripture quotations, the biblical reference will be in parenthesis at the end. If it is a direct quote from another author, it will have quotation marks around it.

Unless otherwise indicated, all Bible quotes are from the English Standard Version with a link to Bible Gateway if you would like to see a different version.

Friday Prayer Blessings About the Love of God

The Bible says that God is love, which makes the Word of God the perfect source to know what love means and how you can love people. Knowing that you are loved beyond imagination is a beautiful way to wrap up your week!

  • “The Lord your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.” (Zephaniah 3:17)
  • “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)
  • “The Christian does not think God will love us because we are good, but that God will make us good because He loves us.” ―C.S. Lewis
  • “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” (1 Corinthians 13:13, NIV)
  • “This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.” (1 John 4:9)

Good Friday Quotes About the Work Week

God’s words says that working honestly, but with faith in mind, can lead to the great things He has planned for us. Allow these verses to encourage and motivate you to do the best you can do every day of the week.

  • “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” (Colossians 3:23-24)
  • “Success is not how high you have climbed, but how you make a positive difference to the world.” ―Roy T. Bennett
  • “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” (Proverbs 16:3)
  • “Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands!” (Psalm 90:17)
  • “When a new day begins, dare to smile gratefully. When there is darkness, dare to be the first to shine a light.” ―Steve Maraboli

Friday Encouragement for Friends

Friends are truly one of God’s great blessings of life. Friends walk with you through the tough times and rejoice with you through the good times. As you start out this Friday, spend time thanking God for those friends in your life.

  • “Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his earnest counsel.” (Proverbs 27:9)
  • “A friend is someone who knows all about you and still loves you.” ―Elbert Hubbard
  • “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” (Proverbs 17:17)
  • “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:12-13)
  • “If you live to be a hundred, I want to live to be a hundred minus one day so I never have to live without you.” ―Joan Powers
  • “My intercessor is my friend as my eyes pour out tears to God; on behalf of a man he pleads with God as one pleads for a friend.” (Job 16:20-21, NIV)

Friday Quotes for a Blessing-Filled Day

Whether or not you acknowledge them or even recognize them, God’s blessings fill our days. Like a parent who delights in blessing their children, God loves to pour blessings over our lives.

  • “Start each day with a positive thought and a grateful heart.” ―Roy T. Bennett
  • “You are the only you God made… God made you and broke the mold.” ―Max Lucado
  • “The opposite of love is not hate, it’s indifference. Opposite of art is not ugliness, it’s indifference. The opposite of faith is not heresy, it’s indifference. And the opposite of life is not death, it’s indifference.” ―Elie Wiesel
  • “It is better to fail in originality than to succeed in imitation.” ―Herman Melville
  • “The man who moves a mountain begins by carrying away small stones.” ―Confucius
  • “If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it. If He had a wallet, your photo would be in it. He sends you flowers every spring and a sunrise every morning… Face it, friend. He is crazy about you!” ―Max Lucado

Friday Morning Motivation for a Great Day

Pause and allow these Bible verses to encourage you to trust in God and be grateful for the blessing of life. Be inspired by the Word of God!

  • “For nothing will be impossible with God.” (Luke 1:37)
  • We know it is a blessing-filled day because it is a day you created, O Lord!
  • “For God has not given us a spirit of fear but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7, NKJV)
  • “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
  • “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22-23)
  • “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” (Romans 12:12)
  • “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” (James 1:17)

Prayers and Wisdom for Friday Night

The work week is over, so I am pausing social media to gather with my family members and loved ones to celebrate what the Lord did this week. Such times make life rich.

  • “The most wasted of all days is one without laughter.” ―Nicolas Chamfort
  • “For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, “Fear not, I am the one who helps you.” (Isaiah 41:13)
  • “We are what we pretend to be, so we must be careful about what we pretend to be.” ―Kurt Vonnegut
  • “Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul.” (3 John 1:2)
  • “It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O Most High, proclaiming your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night.” (Psalm 92:1-2)
  • The best thing you did today, Lord, is simply show up and let your light shine on me and through me. Thank you, Lord!

Good News Friday Despite Hard Times

When you are feeling weak or timid, these scriptures remind you that God is present with you. Despite your fears and insecurities, God is near to you, providing you with strength in your time of need. 

  • “And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:19)
  • “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10)
  • “And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” (2 Corinthians 9:8)
  • “We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.” ―Maya Angelou
  • “The Lord is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation; this is my God, and I will praise him, my father’s God, and I will exalt him.” (Exodus 15:2)
  • “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” (Psalm 18:2)

Good Deeds for a Blessed Friday

Jesus showed the ultimate selflessness in laying down His life to set you free. Imitating His selfless love by serving others instead of simply self-serving brings blessings upon blessings. 

  • “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” (Galatians 5:13)
  • “May the Lord repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.” (Ruth 2:12)
  • God is merciful and gracious and is abounding in goodness and truth. May all of those characteristics of God be clear to me this Friday so I may focus on God and all His goodness.
  • “I don’t want to live in the kind of world where we don’t look out for each other. Not just the people that are close to us, but anybody who needs a helping hand.” ―Charles de Lint
  • “Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” (Romans 12:13)

Inspirational Bible Verses About the Peace of God

God can bring peace amid struggles, worries, and fear. In fact, He promises that His peace “passes all understanding”. Use these verses to step back from the pressure of life and come into the presence of God to hear His promises of hope and comfort over your circumstances.

  • “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have trouble. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
  • “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.” (2 Thessalonians 3:16)
  • “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” (Isaiah 26:3)
  • “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26)
  • “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” (John 14:27)

Joy-Filled Friday Bible Verses

At the end of a long week, you may feel short on joy. Yet Joy is one of the most prominent themes of the Bible. Happiness is circumstantial, but the joy of the Lord has already been given to us. Allow these verses to remind you of God’s joy!

  • “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice.” (Philippians 4:4)
  • May our praises be as big as our blessings this Friday. 
  • “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” (James 1:2-4)
  • “Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.” (John 16:24)
  • Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10)
  • “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” (3 John 1:4)

Friday Praises for the Lord

Beginning our Friday by praising the Lord sets our minds on Him and His goodness. Praising God gives us the eyes to see Him and His bountiful blessings throughout each day.

  • “I will meditate on the glorious splendor of Your majesty, and on Your wondrous works. Men shall speak of the might of Your awesome acts, and I will declare Your greatness. They shall utter the memory of Your great goodness, and shall sing of Your righteousness.” (Psalm 145:5-7)
  • “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)
  • “But I, with shouts of grateful praise, will sacrifice to you. What I have vowed I will make good. I will say, ‘Salvation comes from the Lord.’ ” (Jonah 2:9)
  • “Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits.” (Psalm 103:1-2)

​Friday Thanksgiving to the Lord

It’s so easy to become overwhelmed with all the tasks and activities to do that you forget to stop and reflect on why you should be celebrating Friday and heading into the weekend. Read these verses aloud!

  • “I will give to the Lord the thanks due to his righteousness, and I will sing praise to the name of the Lord, the Most High.” (Psalm 7:17)
  • “Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. For the LORD is the great God, the great King above all gods.” (Psalm 95:2-3)
  • “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.” (Colossians 2:6-7)
  • “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” (Psalm 100:4)
  • “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.” (Psalm 136:1)
  • “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.” (Colossians 4:2)
  • “Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind, for he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.” (Psalm 107:8-9)

Friday Thoughts

Whether today is a Friday or Tuesday, the power of God never diminishes. He gave us the life of Jesus at the proper time so we have the hope of eternal life.

I pray that the Word of God sings over your life in a loud voice. I pray that God’s love makes your face shine today. And perhaps write it down to remember on those hard days.

God created the entire world, but he knows you individually. The best way to start any day is to seek the will of God before your feet hit the floor.

Your heavenly Father loves you more than you can possibly imagine. God’s blessings and the Word of the Lord of Hosts are rich food to feast on any day of the week.

​Have a Happy and Blessed Friday!

Related Posts:

About the Author
Donna is a sought-after author, speaker, and Bible teacher. Her path from being unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was not easy. Read her God-breathed journey: “From Unchurched to Becoming a Multi-Published Author and Sought-After Speaker.” If you want to send Donna a quick message, then visit her here.

{Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase through that link, the ministry may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!}

25 Encouraging Bible Verses for Addiction Recovery

Posted on by Donna Snow

If you have struggled with addiction of any kind, you fully understand that addiction recovery feels like a never-ending battle. Whether drug addiction, alcohol addiction, substance abuse, sexual immorality, or other addictive behaviors, the Word of God is the first step on the right path.

addiction-recovery

Throughout my whole adult life, my struggle has been food. I have struggled with yo-yo dieting and obesity for decades. Food has always been my way of escape when faced with difficult times, celebrating the good times, and any time in between. 

But I had not faithfully fought that addiction by relying wholeheartedly on the grace of God found in God’s Word. I allowed my own glutinous desires to take precedence over the work of the Holy Spirit. Perhaps you can relate to that struggle in your own addiction battle. 

Enough is enough. I went on a journey through Scripture to discover the most helpful Bible verses for encouragement and great power when temptation hits hard. I pray that these verses will help you, as well.

1. For the Weary

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” Matthew 11:28-29

Any type of addiction recovery falls heavy on your heart, mind, and soul. You need to share the burden. Most days you wish you could simply push a magic button and it would disappear forever. A support group is a wonderful place to share those burdens. Journaling is also an effective tool for offloading.

However, the Good News of the power of Christ gets to the heart of your mental health. Knowing that Christ Jesus initiates the healing process by shouldering your burden gets to the heart of the battle.

addiction-recovery

2. Seeking Peace

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” John 14:27

Struggling with addiction recovery is a constant source of unrest. Whether alcohol abuse, drug abuse, lust of the flesh, or food, the power of addiction affects all areas of life.

However, this beautiful verse reminds you that even in the midst of sinful behaviors and poor choices, the peace of God has not bypassed you. No power on earth is stronger than God’s love and God’s grace over you.

addiction-recovery

3. Prayer for Healing

“And the prayer of faith will save the one who is sick, and the Lord will raise him up. And if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven. Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” James 5:15-16

This beautiful verse encourages us to share your struggles with each other for prayer and encouragement. When you call on dear friends and family members, their prayers help us through tough times. They can alleviate the heavy loads of accountability that encourage a fresh start and recovery journey.

addiction-recovery

4. The Right Friends

“Do not be deceived: Bad company ruins good morals.” 1 Corinthians 15:33

Temptation lurks around every corner, as well as from old friends who may also struggle with addictions. This verse wisely instructs you to surround yourself with the good character and godly lives of the right people. Only those family members and friends who truly care for you will actively help you with addiction recovery.

addiction-recovery

5. Healing Process

“Behold, I will bring to it health and healing, and I will heal them and reveal to them abundance of prosperity and security.” Jeremiah 33:6

The healing process following addiction treatment can be a long haul of ups and downs. You have to deal with cravings, relapse, boredom, loneliness, and difficulty finding purpose.

However, by faith, God can bring about complete and lasting healing. This verse promises, “I will.” And He will.

addiction-recovery

6. Abundant Hope

“And you will feel secure, because there is hope; you will look around and take your rest in security.” Job 11:18

If you have struggled with addiction for years, you may feel that addiction recovery is hopeless. Processing stress, shame, anger, and sadness are difficult emotions to wrangle.

Your addiction may have caused financial or relationship problems, as well. However, this verse reminds you that the hope of God is a promise that He keeps. Holding on to the hope of God will bring about healing and a rebuilt life.

addiction-recovery

7. Perseverance

“Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” Romans 5:3-5

Any time we face tough times, trials, and sufferings, God allows us to grow stronger and braver. Just like muscles in a gym, resistance builds physical strength.

This verse provides truth and hope that fighting through addiction builds spiritual strength. Feelings of emptiness, shame, and loneliness will be replaced by a sober mind fixed on eternal glory with God.

addiction-recovery

8. Walk with God

“Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.” Galatians 5:19-21

Addictions are truly works of the flesh. God does not tempt you to become an addict. Temptation is wholly the devil’s scheme to draw you away from God. The list is long, but none is stronger than the higher power of God Almighty.

Worldly passions surround you every day, yet the Spirit of God lives inside of you. He never leaves nor abandons you to addiction, but calls you to walk in His light.

addiction-recovery

9. Be Filled With the Spirit

“And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit.” Ephesians 5:18

There is no room for misinterpretation here: abusing alcohol leads to sin. Indeed, any overindulgence follows similar consequences of addiction.

But being filled with the Spirit brings life, peace, freedom, and hope. Such a life includes prayer, confession of sins, gratitude, and living in such a way that honors the Lord God. 

addiction-recovery

10. Cast Away Anxiety

“Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” 1 Peter 5:6-8

Feeling anxious goes hand-in-hand with working toward addiction recovery. However, anxiety does not help, which is why the Lord tells you to hand your anxieties over to Him. In His hands, they are cast away for good, not just for a little while.

God desires for you to have the crown of life not a crown of thorns. He is trustworthy. Even though the devil prowls like a lion, our Lion of Judah devours your anxiety.

addiction-recovery

11. Just Say No

“For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age.” Titus 2:11-12

The addiction recovery process is more involved than just saying no, but that’s where recovery must start.

Saying no to ungodliness and passions of the flesh marks the beginning of living a life that honors God and His calling on your life. Saying no inspires you toward self-control and building a closer relationship with God.

addiction-recovery

12. Facing Trials

“Count it all joy, my brothers and sisters, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” James 1:2-3

Joy is the last thing that comes to mind when faced with addiction recovery. However, James does call the addiction a joy, but rather that through the struggles God forges strength and persistence.

Those valuable qualities are necessary to stay the course and remain clean. Steadfastness is key to overcoming any addiction through Christ alone.

13. Conquering Temptation

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:15-16

Jesus Christ experienced temptations while He was here on Earth yet did not fall into sin. This means that Jesus understands firsthand weakness and disappointment. He can sympathize and emphasize with such pain. He even paid the price for your sins with His life.

Addiction may have once had you, but this verse reassures you that Jesus’ mercy and compassion has the final say.

14. Victorious Strength

“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

Feeling weak and overwhelmed is common as you focus on overcoming addiction. It is normal to feel self-directed anger and shame for the damage your addiction has caused in your life and the relationship with family and friends you hold dear.

But this verse confirms that all things are possible in Christ – even defeating addiction. God faithfully provides His strength to stay focused and on the path to your new life.

15. Faithful Guide

“And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” Matthew 6:13

The last thing that Satan wants is your addiction recovery. He will lob every fiery dart at you in order to bring you down. But God will never tempt you, much less lead you there. The enemy’s temptations may be strong, but God has unlimited power to defeat that enemy.

So when you are tempted to fall back into old patterns or places where your addiction thrived, pray this prayer for God to deflect the enemy’s evil plan.

16. Helping Others 

“Brothers and sisters, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.” Galatians 6:1

You may have family or friends who also abuse addictive substances. If so, you could serve as part of their support network. By listening to their struggles without judging, you could provide an excellent example by living a healthy, God-centered lifestyle.

By abstaining from drugs, alcohol, or other addictive behaviors, you can demonstrate that victory is possible through Christ. Your example can help prevent them from succumbing to their sinful temptations. You can point them to the One who can bring ultimate victory.

17. God Listens

“Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will hear you. You will seek me and find me, when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:12-13

God is as close as your next breath and hears your prayers without fail. God listens to you and knows the content of your heart. Your heart is likely heavily burdened with the shame and trauma caused by addiction. Some days may feel like it is simply too much to handle.

But God promises that He will listen to your prayer and always be available when you call on Him. He never abandons nor forsakes you.

18. God Enables Recovery

Jesus looked at them and said, “With man it is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God.” Mark 10:27

Overcoming addiction, especially one you have struggled with for years, may feel impossible. But God reminds you in this verse that absolutely everything is possible with Him.

The addiction recovery road may be rough, but God’s love and grace will bring you healing. Seeking His help is the first step toward healing. Do not hesitate to call on Him. He is ready and able to sever the tentacles of addiction.

19. Renewing Your Mind

“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12:2

The struggle with addiction always begins in your mind. Battles are won or lost in your mind long before they play out in real-time.

The thoughts and content that occupy your mind make all the difference. This verse points out that renewing your mind is key to overcoming addiction.

Such a transformation can only be accomplished in Christ—spending time in His Word and prayer. Such discipline produces perseverance that is necessary for victory over any substance use disorder.

Spending daily time in prayer and studying God’s Word provides the unbeatable combination to defeat addiction once and for all.

20. Facing Temptation

“Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am being tempted by God,” for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one. But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire.” James 1:13-14

Satan will use every opportunity to put the stumbling block of temptation in your path. He can use a tempting environment in your area of addiction. He can leverage careless words spoken by unsupportive friends. You have a choice whether or not to give in to that desire.

God will never tempt you. God tests you toward success, as in a classroom. The enemy alone tempts you toward failure for destruction. Keeping your eyes on God and turning over the temptation battle to Him will keep you on the right path toward addiction recovery.

God is faithful and wants you to live a life free of addiction. Trust Him. 

21. Defining Desires

“For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world.” 1 John 2:16

The desire to sin and fall into addiction never originates from God. This verse reminds you that the culprits of are the temptations paraded before your eyes in this world. The God of all grace designed you to live in different ways—ways that honor Him and build your life on His promises.

A life free from addiction can be leveraged in serving Him for Kingdom purposes. The best treatment plan is calling on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ and trusting in His holy treatment program of love, mercy, and grace.

22. Not All Things Are Helpful

“You say, ‘I am allowed to do anything’—but not everything is good for you. And even though ‘I am allowed to do anything,’ I must not become a slave to anything.” 1 Corinthians 6:12

This verse hits a key point: you are allowed to do anything. But addiction stops short of asking a crucial question: “Is it helpful?” Or even further: “Am I becoming a slave to this thing?”

The Apostle Paul answers those questions flat out: not everything is good for you.

And even though you are allowed to do anything, there will be consequences for harmful decisions. God allows consequences to fall based on your choices in order to change behavioral patterns toward better choices. In spite of everything, remember that God consistently and faithfully forgives you because He loves you. 

23. Resist the Devil

“Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7

The devil is going to mess with you. But God promises that when you resist the devil he will flee. He has no choice. That does not mean he will not keep trying and tempting. Yet every time you resist in the name of Jesus the devil will flee.

So when addiction temptations start running through your mind, speak the Word of God aloud. Open your Bible or this list of Bible verses and start speaking them out loud.

There is POWER in the name of Jesus and the devil holds NO power against it. Memorizing some or all of these verses will enable you to fight effectively against every single temptation the moment that it raises its ugly head.

24. Call on the Lord

“Then call on me when you are in trouble, and I will rescue you, and you will give me glory.” Psalm 50:15

As you walk the road toward addiction recovery, there will never be a time when God is too busy to help you. Whether at two in the afternoon or two in the morning, He will come to your rescue.

God alone deserves all the glory for rescuing because you know all too well that you cannot rescue yourself. You have tried more times than you can count to save yourself from addictive behavior, but your sinful nature has been a relentless stumbling block.

Yet when you call on the Lord, there is no stumbling block that God cannot blast out of the way to rescue you every single time.

25. Freedom in Christ

“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:36

What a perfect verse to wrap up our list of Bible verses to overcome addiction. When Jesus sets you free from your addiction, it’s freedom from the inside out. He transforms your mind, which changes your future behavior to live a God-honoring life.

A mind set free by Christ experiences new life that can only come from Him. Keep fighting the good fight against addiction with His Word and the power of His Name. 

Take heart! You have started your journey toward overcoming addiction, which is very brave indeed. On those days that you feel discouraged or defeated, keep these verses close by.

I have set up a prayer “war room.” Perhaps a dedicated prayer space is precisely what you need. Here is how you can do it.

Keep the Word of God on your lips and His name in your prayers. And when He sets you free, you will be free indeed.

Related Posts:

About the Author
Donna is a sought-after author, speaker, and Bible teacher. Her path from being unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was not easy. Read her God-breathed journey: “From Unchurched to Becoming a Multi-Published Author and Sought-After Speaker.” If you want to send Donna a quick message, then visit her here.

{Some of these links are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through that link, the ministry may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!}

RELEASE DAY! Meant for Good: A Study of Joseph

Posted on by Donna Snow

My brand new Bible study through Concordia Publishing House releases TODAY: Meant For Good: A Study of Joseph. LET THE PRAISES RING!

Similar to the depth of my Esther study, this Bible study goes deep into the life of Joseph in the Book of Genesis. Joseph’s biography occupies more space in Genesis than those of Adam, Noah, Abraham, or even his own father, Jacob. Although that should be reason enough to study Joseph’s incredible journey, he experiences family conflict and unfair treatment that many of us can relate to today.

The Story

The story begins with Joseph in the land of Canaan as a seventeen-year-old dreamer—literally. As one of two sons born to Jacob’s favorite wife Rachel, favoritism plays a significant role in the story of Joseph. After all, Jacob had been his mother’s favorite.

In Jacob’s eyes, his son Joseph was the favorite even though he was not the oldest son. Joseph had ten older brothers and one younger brother. Sadly, Joseph’s mother Rachel died giving birth to Benjamin, the youngest son.

God gave Joseph the extraordinary gift of interpreting dreams. However, Joseph had not yet mastered the art of tact, timing, or knowing his audience. When he tells his brothers that one day they will bow to him, it becomes clear that even though Joseph’s gift was intact, he was not able to read a room.

One day, Jacob sends Joseph to check on his brothers who are tending their flocks far away. But Joseph never makes it back home.

The 20-Year Saga

The brothers accost Joseph, strip him of his many-colored coat, and throw him into a waterless pit. They ignore his cries, decide to leave him in the pit to die, and sit down to enjoy lunch together. Then Judah offers up a Plan B to make some extra cash instead.

Then Jacob’s sons (all except Benjamin) agree to pull Joseph out of the pit and sell him to Midianite traders for twenty pieces of silver. They return to their father Jacob and promptly lie about what happened.

Pause a moment. Can you imagine what Joseph is feeling? He is rescued from the pit (yay!) only to be sold for money (what?) by his very own flesh and blood.

The Midianites take Joseph to the land of Egypt. Then Joseph is sold to Potiphar, who holds a significant position in Pharaoh’s Egyptian court, to work as a slave.

As Joseph works diligently in Potiphar’s home, Potiphar’s wife takes notice of Joseph and tries to entice Joseph into sleeping with her. He flees from temptation and her repeated offers, only to be falsely accused and thrown into prison.

Spiritual Bootcamp

And so begins Joseph’s spiritual boot camp which lasted more than twenty years. The amazing truth about God’s spiritual boot camps (basically, our whole life) is that He never leaves us. Ever. God’s faithfulness to us never wavers.

During those twenty years, Joseph oversees Potiphar’s home, eventually oversees the prison into which he was thrown, and interprets four additional dreams along the way. The whole time, the God of Abraham is working in Joseph’s life. Molding. Shaping. Preparing.

Even though Joseph’s brothers stripped him of his coat, they could not strip him of his godly character.

Egypt’s Second in Command

After interpreting Pharaoh’s two confusing dreams, Pharaoh elevates Joseph to the position of second in command over Egypt. In addition, God populated the house of Joseph with a wife and children. A new family. Even though Joseph was far from home, God blessed him in what Joseph referred to as “the land of my affliction.”

Eventually, all of Egypt understood that Joseph’s elevation to prominence was a good thing. Joseph’s diligence and excellent administrative skills successfully navigate Egypt through seven years of famine. His industrious, tireless work ended up providing a multitude of nations with food during the devastating famine.

Forgiveness

Joseph could have easily leveraged his powerful position to retaliate against his older brothers. He could have blamed them for stealing the life he had planned. He could have allowed hate and bitterness to take root in his heart. Instead, Joseph forgave wholeheartedly and embraced reconciliation.

We behold the Gospel story woven like a scarlet thread throughout Joseph’s narrative. The struggles that Joseph endured remind us how vital it is to let God’s love and forgiveness lead us.

Joseph’s story is not a rags-to-riches phenomenon. It is a picture of relentless, God-honoring faith. If you struggle with forgiveness, I wrote an entire Bible study on it here.

For All the History Buffs

If you are a history buff like me, you will devour the historical smorgasbord in Bible study. My previous study on Esther unearthed the nuances and culture of the Persian empire. With Joseph, we dive headlong into ancient Egypt. (Cue the singing of “Walk Like an Egyptian.”)

The study narrows down which pharaoh Joseph would have served under, which then provides the kind of work and tasks Joseph would have performed as vizier (prime minister). Fascinating!

Ancient Egypt

Originally starting out as several independent cities along the Nile River, Egypt was formed from an Upper Egypt and Lower Egypt, which unified around 3100 BC. Egypt was one the largest kingdoms of the ancient world and led the charge regarding cultural and economic influence until it was conquered in 332 B.C. by the Macedonians.

Joseph’s story takes place during the historical time of unified Egypt, which was considered to be one of Egypt’s greatest eras. 

Egypt’s Pharaohs

We also study the historical timeline and Egyptian lineage particular to Joseph’s story. We peek into the fascinating world of Egyptian pharaohs. This study pinpoints the precise pharaoh that Joseph would have served under according to historical fact.

This allows us the rare opportunity to discover what that pharaoh focused on and his geopolitical agenda. Consequently, we can ascertain some of the historical responsibilities that Joseph would have been responsible for under that pharaoh’s reign.

Joseph’s Lineage

As one of the sons of Jacob, Joseph’s brothers and Joseph’s sons eventually comprise the twelve tribes of Israel. Joseph did not have his own tribe. There is no tribe of Joseph. However, the sons of Joseph – Ephraim and Manasseh – form the twelfth tribe together as a double portion of God’s blessing to Joseph.

Joseph’s Christ-Like Qualities

In Joseph, we see Christ-like qualities almost unparalleled in the Old Testament (in my opinion). Regardless of his circumstances, Joseph never wavered from following the Lord. He was a diligent worker, faithful witness, and capable administrator.

Joseph’s example issues a challenge even today: Will we choose to become victims of our circumstances and give up or will we trust God to bring beauty from ashes and excel?

Even though God would use Joseph mightily, the learning process was long. That same truth applies to us. It may be a long time before God deems us ready for the tasks He has planned for us. I could not have written in-depth Bible studies twenty years ago. God’s instruction over time has produced a much better vintage.

Purpose for Our Pain

Joseph could have given in to bitterness. Easily. Who would blame him? Yet he responded to broken dreams and difficult circumstances with a strong faith that propelled him from the pit of slavery to the pinnacle of power.

God Almighty diligently prepared Joseph to help Egypt’s great nation survive utter destruction. But that preparation did not come in a safe classroom. Joseph learned and honed his extraordinary administrative gifts in two places he never thought he would be—in slavery and in prison.

We may not be able to see how God is preparing us during our difficult times, but rest assured there is a holy purpose for our pain.

The Bottom Line

Even though Joseph experienced extraordinary hurt and adversity, God’s promise to be with him remained faithful. Joseph endured jealousy and sibling rivalry in his father’s household. He survived mistreatment and a murderous plot by his older brothers. He was thrown into prison for resisting temptation. He could have easily allowed his woes to become his focus.

Instead, Joseph looked up and trusted God. And because of the great faith that God instilled in Joseph, a multitude of people would owe Joseph their lives—literally.

Can you relate to waterless pits and unfairness in your life? This new Bible study is uniquely relevant to our current times.

God uses Joseph’s journey to provide invaluable insights regarding how to live wise, bold journeys of faith—fully trusting Him every single day. May God grant you and me such tenacious faith in Christ Jesus our Lord.

You can order “Meant for Good” right here.

Meant for Good: A Study of Joseph

How to Rebind Your Bible (DIY Easy Steps)

Posted on by Donna Snow

If a Bible sits handily on your coffee table or tucked on a bookshelf, chances are it is one of the most read and precious books in your library. You may even have several copies or versions of the Bible. But don’t you have a favorite? What does it take to rebind your Bible?

How to Rebind Your Bible

Table of Contents

The best starting place to rebind your Bible is to assess its condition and what needs to be replaced. This is important so that all of the right supplies are handy the moment you get started. 

My Favorite Bible

My favorite old Bible is about three decades old: a Thompson Chain Reference Bible. That old leather cover Bible holds precious notes from one of the most significant spiritual growth seasons of my Christian journey. It is not a large Bible but truly precious.

About ten years ago, the black leather original cover began to separate from the binding. I grabbed some pink duct tape and taped it back together right smack through the book of Amos. And then added a pink duct tape simple cross on the cover. A stylish and perfect choice, right? Not the most beautiful restoration work upon closer look, to say the least.

My 30+ year old Bible

I still use that Bible with the duct-taped old cover almost daily, but it no longer leaves my home. I have a more compact Bible that I take to church. Study Bibles that I use in Bible class. And even a small Bible when I travel to teach from Scripture. But now I want to rebind that precious Bible with new leather.

If you are doing some heavy turning of those thin pages in your Bible (a wonderful discipline), it’s no surprise that even a well-bound Bible will show its share of wear and tear. However, commissioning a Bible rebinding company to professionally repair a standard size Bible with a premium Bible cover can get costly.

The cost can vary depending on the bible size, the weight leather you desire, the grain pattern, the smooth finished edge, lighter leather vs. faux leather, and even the corner work. There is a full menu of options for this beautiful work. To save all of that cost, YOU can do it!

Enduring Word bible

What Are Your Options?

Now that you have determined that the binding is breaking down, you have three options to choose from. First, you can just ignore it — like an ostrich with its head in the sand, so to speak. You just keep reading your Bible until it becomes almost unreadable and then decide what to do.

Second, you can go ahead and replace your current Bible immediately, which you would have had to do even if you had let it fall apart completely. There are affordable paperback editions out there, but those are usually made with cut-rate material and do not last long. And a new Bible with a hardcover — in fact, most hardcover books — can get expensive.

Third, you can download an e-book edition if you’re willing to read Scripture on an e-reader device or tablet. I have downloaded free Bible apps to refer to on the road rather than incurring the additional charge of an e-book. However, I prefer to hold a physical book and make notes in my own Bible. The last time Moses carried a tablet, his hair went gray. Just saying.

Maybe your favorite Bible is a family heirloom that you want to last for years and years of service. You inherited a loved one’s personal Bible, and had hoped to pass it along to your child, one of their children, and so on down the line.

So rather than replace your Bible outright, why not repair it to give it a new life? It is not as hard as you might think. In fact, you can purchase complete Bible rebinding kits that include all the supplies you need.

Rebinding your Bible to make it look and read like new will allow you to preserve a treasured heirloom and continue to enjoy it with peace of mind. And almost anyone can do a great job on minor repairs.

Keep or Replace the Cover?

Here is a step-by-step guideline that you can follow. The first step is to remove the book cover. The cover of a Bible can be almost as important to its owner as the text within. While your binding may be failing, the cover may still be intact.

You can certainly improve your Bible’s cover with genuine leather, imitation leather, or even lamb skin, but many people who rebind their books prefer to keep the original covers. Use a dull knife, bone folder, or other such instruments to gently pry the binding from the cover.

If you intend to replace the cover as part of your project, make sure to take proper measurements (including the width of the spine within a quarter inch) to ensure that it will fit the book block identically. If there is an additional leather liner, be sure to measure that as well. There are also paste-down liner options.

Luther Bible

Realign the Book Block

The collected pages of a book are called a book block. If the failing binding has compromised the integrity of the spine causing detached pages within your Bible, hopefully, you have saved those loose pages to reincorporate during the Bible repair process.

Gather these pages and make sure that they are all present and in the correct order (including any blank pages). I mean, you don’t want one of the Gospels sneaking between Genesis and Exodus. Once in order, use tools or many taps on a hard surface to align the pages perfectly flush. Using a blank end sheet preserves your Bible’s pages against glue mishaps.

Hebrew scrolls

Remove the Old Glue

It’s simply a reality: adhesive substances such as glue and tape lose their stickiness over time. In dealing with an older edition of the Bible, chances are the glue in the spine has grown quite dry and crumbly since its initial binding.

As you restore the needed integrity of your Bible’s spine, the integrity of the new treatment depends on removing as much of the old treatment as possible. Kind of like dusting a surface before painting it. A utility knife comes in handy to scrape off any remaining glue, which at this point should not put up much of a fight.

Old Testament Bible

Apply Book Repair Tape

Quality book repair tape will restore even the widest spines back to full strength. As technology and chemistry advance, longer-lasting alternatives to book-binding glue are available. However, the tape takes the place of glue and spine cloth that are prone to breaking down over the years.

Not only is tape a stronger choice, but it’s also less work than building a new spine and trying to glue it into place. Firmly anchor your book between two flat and heavy objects such as bricks, spine-side-up, and carefully apply your book repair tape to the spine of the book block.

leather journal

Reset the Cover

If you chose to keep your cover, carefully put it back into place beginning at the spine. An important note: if your cover is made of real leather, do not protect it with a Mylar cover. This will trap moisture between the cover and its protection. Over time, that trapped moisture will degrade the leather and eventually necessitate the outright replacement you are working to avoid.

If you are not able to salvage the cover of your Bible, you will need to build a new cover with cardboard for the front cover, back cover, and spine, as well as linen or leather for the exterior rebinding process.

Book Covers

Repair Option for the Non-DIYer

While rebinding a Bible (or any book) might be an intuitive process for many reading enthusiasts, the care and precision required for rebinding are not for everyone.

If you don’t trust yourself to tackle applying new binding to a treasured family Bible on your own, you can find professional Bible restoration services that will take care of this task on your behalf.

You may even know someone who does rebinding work of the highest quality as a side business. You can certainly requisition a custom Bible cover to be made with custom leather, as well. The options are nearly limitless.

Books

Bottom Line

Hopefully, with this information and the right supplies, you will soon find yourself in possession of a good-as-new Holy Bible courtesy of your own two hands. I also found that YouTube has many videos that can guide you along the way.

While rebinding your Bible to make it look like new can be hard work, the work is worth it in order to preserve a beautiful heirloom. You do not have to be content allowing the ravages of time to get in the way of passing your Bible on through multiple generations.

If you enjoy restoring your Bible, and it is not the only antique book in your library, you can apply these same principles to any well-worn, much-loved book in your collection. Happy rebinding!

Related Posts:

About the Author
Donna is a sought-after author, speaker, and Bible teacher. Her path from being unchurched to becoming passionate about sharing Jesus was not easy. Read her God-breathed journey: “From Unchurched to Becoming a Multi-Published Author and Sought-After Speaker.” If you want to send Donna a quick message, then visit her here.

{Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase through that link, the ministry may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!}

Scripture From Scratch: New Bible Study Tool (Free Downloads)

Posted on by Donna Snow

The entire Bible is more accessible than at any other point in history. Yet “How to Study the Bible” is searched online over 8,500 times each month. Access to the Word of God is not the issue. However, knowing it is a huge issue. So how do you start studying the Bible?

Scripture from Scratch

Table of Contents

Where to Start Reading the Bible
Why is Knowing Scripture Important?
Start with Prayer
13 Methods to Study Scripture

The best place to start studying the Bible is the Gospels. These four books are firsthand accounts of Jesus’ life and ministry from those who walked with Him. Let’s look at some helpful, practical study knowledge and practices.

Where to Start Reading the Bible

Here is a brand new resource hot off the ministry press to print out and tuck into your Bible: Scripture From Scratch. Reading and familiarizing yourself with the Gospels is an excellent starting place in the Bible and this resource will help tremendously.

The first installment of Scripture From Scratch includes study outlines for the Gospels. Each book’s outline includes the time period it was written, the author, and how many chapters. It also includes the birth, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus, and what makes that Gospel unique compared to the other three.

These one-page study outlines provide helpful, basic information on each of the four Gospels. They are handy reference guides to share with anyone who studies the Bible–whether you are brand new to Bible study or have been studying for years. 

More outlines and in-depth material in the Scripture From Scratch series will be released throughout 2023, so stay tuned! 

For new Christians or as a refresher for those steeped in the Christian faith, these outlines can be printed out and tucked into your Bible for handy reference. And share them!

Why is Knowing Scripture Important?

I first started studying Scripture after becoming a Christian at age 23. I did not know anything about the Bible. There’s an Old Testament and a New Testament? You get the gist.

I felt that my basic questions were off-putting to mature Christians. I lacked a good starting point, a good study Bible, or even which first steps to take. Attending church was important, but getting involved in life groups, a small group, and surrounding myself with Christian friends was a game-changer.

Over the past thirty years, God has cultivated in my daily life solid tools to study, memorize and apply Scripture every day. Today, I am passionate about biblical literacy. Some of the methods below may work better for you than others. Try each one to discover your best method. It is time well spent for your soul.

First Things First: Start with Prayer

Scripture is God’s breath exhaled onto the page. Focusing your mind and thoughts on Him comes first and foremost. Always begin your study time with prayer.

The Holy Spirit in you will faithfully guide you, but perhaps start with a prayer similar to this one:

Dear Lord, as I open my Bible today, open my heart to hear your words of truth. I pray that your Word comes alive in me. Remove all distractions right now. Open my mind to gain understanding as your words heal, teach, inspire, convict, and restore my heart. Enable your words to take root, grow and blossom in my life. Bring your light of understanding and peace that passes all understanding. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Method #1: Study One Book of the Bible

Start with a small book from the New Testament as a solid foundation. The Gospel of John, or the books of James, 1 Peter, and 1 John are all a good start for new believers.

Plan to spend 3-4 weeks studying the book you have chosen. For the first time, read through the entire book to grasp the story. Then, read through and perhaps jot down some study notes to dig into later.

Look for themes that may be woven into the chapters. For example, the book of James contains an obvious theme of perseverance through hard circumstances. Grab a journal and write down the verses around each theme.

Also, make a note of life application principles within the book. In James, a clear life application is that words need to result in action. As you meditate on the themes and life application principles, allow God’s Word to speak to you personally. Where can those themes or applications apply to your life right now?

Method #2: Read Straight Through the Bible

Reading the Bible straight through allows us to “hear” it like Israel’s nomadic tribes. Each person did not have parchment, so the Bible stories were shared verbally.

Note that you do NOT have to start at the beginning of the Bible. The Bible contains 66 separate books compiled into one. You can start anywhere you like, just be sure to read all of them. Reading straight through allows you to hear the overarching story of the Bible.

Be sure to choose a Bible version that is easy to read. Let’s face it, if you don’t understand it, you won’t get far.

There are dozens of translations and different versions of God’s Word, but the King James version is probably the most difficult. For clear reading, I suggest the English Standard Version (ESV) or New Living Translation (NLT). Personally, I use an ESV Study Bible, but the best study Bibles are the ones that work for YOU.

This method allows us to see the overarching story of God’s goodness to His children from Genesis to Revelation. His passionate, relentless pursuit of us toward salvation comes across with beautiful clarity.

I have many different Bible reading plans for free download here.

Method #3: Write Out Parts of the Bible

Our culture moves at lightning speed. Since we are technologically driven (for the most part), we desire things to move fast – such as food, lines, and traffic.

Absorbing Scripture into the marrow of our bones takes time. Breathing space. Quiet time. That’s where grabbing a pen, your Bible and a journal plays a vital role. The rhythm of physically writing slows us down to absorb the words. They stick with us past the moment – especially if you want to memorize particular verses.

As an author, I love the steady cadence of writing out God’s Word. That cadence resounds in my soul to retain those life-giving words.

Make writing fun! I love using my favorite Tul pens and a variety of colorful journals that are readily available and inexpensive.

Method #4: Character Study

One of the most frequently asked questions is who’s who in the Bible. The follow-up question is usually why does it matter?

I love reading current biographies of historical great men and women because they lend insight into the person. Doing character studies throughout Scripture accomplishes much the same.

For instance, Scripture only contains two books named after women: Ruth and Esther. My study quest to understand Esther turned into a full-blown, published Bible study. Talk about an amazing woman of faith that God used mightily!

Studying characters matters because their examples teach us much about living a life of faith. As you study each character, you will see how God moved in their life. How He provided for their needs, disciplined them toward success, and loved them beyond measure. He still does that today with you and me.

Method #5: Topical Bible Study

This is similar to the Character Study method listed above. However, instead of a person, pick a topic. Temptation, peace, addiction, and forgiveness are a few that could be tackled.

I remember as a new Christian being confused by what it meant to be “quenched” or “hydrated” by the Lord. What does “living water” mean? Years later, I used this topical Bible study method and turned that personal quest into a Bible study called Quenched: Christ’s Living Water for a Thirty Soul.

What topic do you long to know more about in the Bible? Use the concordance in the back of your Bible to find where that topic appears in Scripture. Then grab a notepad.

Read and/or write down all of those passages. What does God teach about that topic? Are common misconceptions debunked? Most importantly, meditate on how God can apply those truths to your spiritual journey.

Quenched: Christ's Living Water for a Thirsty Soul by Donna Snow

Method #6: Memorize Scripture

Hiding God’s Word in our hearts is vital. When the enemy knocks us to the ground, God brings those verses to mind to comfort us and bring His peace.

One of the first portions of Scripture I memorized was the Armor of God from Ephesians 6:10-18. This evil in this world is evident – just turn on the evening news. As His children, we need to know God has protected us from head to toe. I wrote an entire Bible study on this topic.

If you are facing a particular battle right now start with verses that speak to that situation. If you are experiencing joyful circumstances, start with passages that praise God.

Yes, all of Scripture is worthy of memorization. However, focusing on ones that directly apply to your life situation will be more meaningful. Memorization will come easier.

Method #7: Bible Journaling (the SOAP method)

A vital step in our faith journey is applying Scripture to our lives. A popular, helpful method appeared a few years ago called “S.O.A.P.” It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer.

I used this method effectively when writing The God of All Comfort based on 2 Corinthians 1:3-7. Paul teaches how God comforts us in our affliction, which enables us to also offer His compassionate comfort to others.

This method is simple. Pick a section of Scripture each morning or evening during your devotion time. Using a notepad or SOAP journal:

  • Write down the Scripture passage
  • Read through it again and record your Observations
  • Jot down how you can Apply those truths in your life
  • Close with Prayer for God to make that verse personal to you

Method #8: Single Word Study

Have you ever wondered what the Bible says about fear? Love? Humility? Kindness? Such wondering offers a perfect opportunity to undertake a single-word study.

When I experienced divorce over a decade ago, I did not feel very loved (to say the least). One of my pastors challenged me to read through the Bible and write out every passage that talked about God’s love. WOW!

Navigating through the painful valleys of divorce is something I understand very well. If you need a Christian guide on how to survive and thrive, I suggest my book: Without This Ring.

That undertaking left me without a trace of doubt about how much God loves me, even when people may not. Writing all of those love passages consumed an entire journal. If I am ever feeling unloved, I still pull out that journal. I don’t feel unloved for long.

If you long to be more kind, I challenge you to search for every instance in Scripture where God talks about kindness. Write them out in a journal. Ask the Lord to enable you to be more kind. God will blow you away as He works through this discipline.

Method #9: Coloring Scripture (Bible Marginalia)

Bible marginalia appeared on the scene a few years ago and has exploded in popularity. If you are an artistic person, this method is a great tool. The premise is to meditate on a Bible verse as you highlight, color, and create art around it.

Friends of mine have launched a very popular Visual Faith® Ministry. There are hundreds of free downloads that include examples of how to highlight, color, and visually enhance your Bible reading experience.

The goal is to utilize the artistic gifts that God has given you to engage with and meditate on Scripture. Even though you are being artistic, be sure to keep in mind the main purpose. Meditate on that passage(s).

Method #10: Read Scripture Like a Novel

Right from Genesis 1, Scripture opens as an epic, cosmic tale about the heavens and the earth. We see God creating everything out of nothing. We see marital drama between Adam and Eve. Blessings and curses. Covenants. Promises. Murder. Adultery. Betrayal. War. Political subversion. Cinematic-worthy battles.

If you are a writer or wannabe screenwriter, simply look at the account of David’s battle with Goliath in 1 Samuel 17. You can’t make that stuff up. It flat-out reads like an award-winning novel.

There are main characters, metanarrative, and deep plot development that become clearer when reading the Bible like a novel. The settings are both intimate and dramatic. The important difference? Scripture is non-fiction.

The overarching message of the Bible becomes crystal clear: God’s love toward us never fails. If you love stories, read through the Bible like a novel. Mentally insert yourself into those stories. Visualize your surroundings. See how God challenges and rescues. Scripture comes alive!

Method #11: Pray Through the Psalms

As a new 20-something Christian struggling with how God could love someone like me, a godly mentor pointed me to the Psalms.

The Psalms verbalized the hurricane of words in my head that I could not explain. She suggested that I use the Psalms as a guideline for my prayer time. Verbalizing worries and concerns to the One who has the power to change them was a spiritual game-changer.

Every emotion that we experience can be found in the Psalms. Anger. Love. Bitterness. Praise. Confusion. Hurt. Thanksgiving. You name it, and it’s in the Psalms. The key to relating to the Psalms is putting yourself in the place of the psalmist. Read it aloud as if you were writing it from your own experience.

King David penned at least 73 of the psalms. He poured his heart out to God in his writing. And as he wrote, God’s peace and comfort would surround him.

The Psalms are also infused with worship. Worship was an integral part of the Israelite’s worship and find great value in our worship even today. If your circumstances leave you without words to worship, speak those worship Psalms aloud.

Method #12: Utilize Your Love of Geography

Understanding the geography around Biblical stories adds an important layer to studying Scripture. Years ago, a friend gave me a Bible Atlas as a birthday gift and it is never far from reach.

When you realize that the Sea of Galilee is only eight by twelve, we can understand how the crowds could track Jesus’ boat as they followed Him along the shore to experience the miraculous feeding of the five thousand (Matthew 14:13-21).

I regularly lead tours through the Holy Land. One of the comments that people repeatedly say is that they had no idea about the proximity of some locations to others. For instance, Magdala, Tiberius, Capernaum, and the Mount of Beatitudes can be seen from an anchored boat on the Sea of Galilee.

If you love maps, this is a very effective method of diving deeper into Scripture. Grab a Bible atlas, pick a story from Scripture, and track the character’s movements. I have spent many hours lost in the pages of that Bible atlas seeing Scripture come to life through geography.

Qumran, Israel

Method #13: Use Bible Flash Cards

Flash cards are not just for school kids. As a bona fide lifelong learner, flashcards are an invaluable way to study Scripture.

When my Forgiveness Bible study was released, the publisher had the brilliant idea of offering Scripture cards with any purchase. I still keep those cards close by as a reminder to keep short accounts. Life is short. Forgiveness is commanded. In fact, here is a free downloadable reading plan on forgiveness to tuck into your Bible.

If you are new to the Bible in general, there are flashcards for learning the books of the Bible, significant characters, and even the timeline. This method is a great resource if you do not have much time each day for in-depth study.

The Bottom Line

The Bible is our only true source of wisdom and knowledge. Regular studying of God’s Word provides a firm foundation to grow and strengthen your faith. It is life-giving and life-changing.

Remember to give yourself some grace in your study of the Bible. You are learning the spiritual riches of a personal relationship with the Son of God. It takes a lifetime. Above all, diligent Bible study will remind you time and again of the assurance of salvation through Jesus Christ alone.

Amen.

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About the Author

Although Donna is a sought-after Bible teacher, her path from being unchurched to become passionate about sharing Jesus was not easy. Go here to read her God-breathed journey, “From Unchurched to Becoming a Multi-Published Author and Sought-After Speaker.” If you want to send Donna a quick message, then visit her contact page here.

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