I write in my Bible — in the tiny margins, in between lines and columns — sometimes so densely that it obscures the text. I take notes on sermons, comment on verses, underline favourite verses, and record historical notes. I draw arrows between verses that connect and write "song" beside verses that were used to create a chorus or hymn. After visiting Israel, Egypt, and Jordan, I started marking every place that I've seen in those countries so that when I encounter them in Scripture, I can visualize the event.

I don't remember how long I've had this Bible, but it was getting worn and some pages were tearing out. Then, I saw a Bible that had a two-inch-wide column on the outer edge of each page with lines on which to write notes. Amazing! I could write volumes and be able to read my notes without having to turn the Bible this way and that to decipher what I'd squeezed into the margins.

I quickly ordered it, and it didn't take too long to underline all my favourite verses in the new Bible and mark the sites that I'd seen in my travels. Now I'm working on transferring my notes from the old one to the new one, which will take much longer.

In the process, I've discovered patterns to the markings that I've made.

Words or phrases that I highlight often have personal meaning. For example:

• I've been a widow for eight years, so verses pertaining to widowhood receive attention, like "A defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling." (Psalm 68:5b NIV)
• I'm a life-long crafter, so I love the verses in Exodus 35:30-35 about skilled craftsmen creating the designs in the tabernacle, especially that God acknowledged their skill as being from the Spirit of God.

I highlight verses that are instructions or assurances. For example:

• Matthew 5:44 – But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! (NLT) This is something that is not easy to do.
• 1 Corinthians 1:8 – He will keep you strong to the end so that you will be free from all blame on the day when our Lord Jesus Christ returns. (NLT) The older I get, the more reassuring this is.

It's an interesting journey as I turn the pages to discover what I've learned from different pastors and Bible studies and how I interacted with the Bible in different phases of my life. This process is also reminding me how I need to apply all that I've learned.

Hebrews 4:12 – The word of God is alive and powerful … it exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. (NLT)

The Bible is God's Word in print. It is indeed powerful, but only if we spend time with it, study it, and apply it to our lives. Its transforming power will change our relationship with God and with those around us. Most importantly, it will equip us to share our faith with others.

Prayer: Father, we need to focus on Your Word more than anything else that we do. Help us to make it a priority in our lives and use it to witness to and strengthen others. Amen.

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About the author:

Sharon Cook <craftercook@gmail.com>
Apache Junction, Arizona, USA
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