How to Choose a Bible as a Christmas Gift
- Boma
- 17 hours ago
- 4 min read
How to Choose the Perfect Bible as a Christmas Gift
Giving a Bible is one of the most beneficial gifts you can offer, and Christmas is a great time to gift one. The Word of God is transformational and contains the answers to the deep questions in people's hearts. It represents an invitation into hope, comfort, guidance, and life with God. If you are choosing a Bible for a family member, a friend, or someone just beginning to explore faith, taking time to choose the right one makes the gift even more special. It could be the difference between the Bible being read and gathering dust on a shelf.
We are blessed to have access to the Bible in a variety of languages and translations. Bibles also come in different layouts, and with a range of additional tools or content to help understand Scripture. Use this simple guide to thoughtfully and prayerfully choose a Bible as a Christmas gift that will connect someone to God's Word for the first time or in a new way.
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. (Psalm 119:105)
Pray About it
God knows and loves the person you want to give a Bible to more than you do. He knows their heart and their needs. Seek His will and direction as you make this decision. Guides are helpful, but God knows best.
If you want to gift a Bible at Christmas but are unsure who to give it to, God has the perfect person in mind and can show you that, too!
Consider the Person You're Buying For
Don't just choose the Bible that you would like to receive; think about the person you are buying for.
Are they exploring Christianity for the first time?
Are they new in their walk with Jesus?
Are they a mature believer who loves deep study?
Are they a teenager or young adult growing in faith?
Are they someone who enjoys journaling and reflection?
Understanding the intended recipients' stage of faith will guide your choice. Don't forget to consider the language they prefer to read in, as it may not be the same as yours.
Choose a Bible Translation
Different translations serve different purposes. Here are helpful options when choosing the best Bible to give as a Christmas gift:
ESV: The English Standard Version is faithful, accurate, and excellent for devotional reading and study
CSB: The Christian Standard Bible is balanced, clear, and modern
NLT: The New Living Translation is easy to understand, and could be great for new believers and younger readers
If they already read the Bible, gifting a different translation can offer fresh insight and new ways to encounter Scripture.
For more on understanding the differences between Bible translations, read: Which Bible Should I Use?
Pick the Right Format
Think about how they might use their Bible day-to-day:
Use | Best Bible Type |
Quiet time & devotion | Journaling or wide-margin Bible |
Deep study | Study Bible with notes |
Church & travel | Compact or thinline Bible |
Family reading | Large print or family Bible |
Teens or creatives | Journaling Bible with space to draw & note |
Choosing a Bible suited to their lifestyle encourages them to use it.
Look for Helpful Features
Small details can make a big difference:
Readable font (large print can be a blessing!)
Ribbon markers
Maps and concordance
Space for notes
Durable binding (leather lasts)
Words of Christ in red (personal preference)
Bible reading plans
Think about the features that could make interacting with the physical book appealing or easier, as well as what might benefit their reading or study of the Word.
Make It Personal & Prayerful
A Bible becomes a lifelong treasure when given with love. Consider:
Writing their name and the date inside (some Bibles have a page for this)
Writing a verse inside
Including a handwritten prayer or a prayer card
Adding a bookmark or small devotional
Highlighting a verse that has blessed you this year
Pray over the Bible before gifting it. Ask God to speak through His Word and draw the recipient closer to Him.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a Bible as a Christmas gift is an eternal investment. You are placing truth, peace, guidance, and love into someone’s hands. Pray, listen, and trust that God will lead you as you give His Word.
Alternatives to Gifting a Bible this Christmas
If buying a full physical Bible doesn’t feel quite right (or you’d like something complementary), here are some alternative ways to share the gift of God's Word:
Audio Bibles make a good alternative to physical Bibles
Give a single book of the Bible. Both the Book of Proverbs and the Gospel of Mark are good choices for introducing the Bible.
The New Testament and Psalms can be more portable and less daunting for people curious about God
Dwell, the Bible app, offers gift cards and is a great way to gift a Bible and more
Daily subscriptions, such as New Lights, offer daily Bible readings with comments from a range of contributors. It can be delivered by email or post
Blessing in Action: How to Choose a Bible as a Christmas Gift
“So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17)
Ask God to show you one person who needs the encouragement of Scripture. Buy them a Bible, write them a Scripture card, or send them a verse with a prayer. Trust that God will cause your actions to produce fruit in their heart, and yours.
