The B-I-B-L-E,
Yes, that’s the book for me.
I stand alone on the Word of God,
the B-I-B-L-E.

Do your remember that little song from Sunday School class? As a child, I enjoyed singing it because the tune is cute and we enjoyed repeating it – over and over. As an adult, I like the song because it makes a clear statement.

Reading God’s Word daily, only reinforces the great love He has for us. 

Because translations of the Bible are available in various versions, finding a style of preferred reading should not be difficult. I encourage readers to explore local Christian book stores, or go online to discover all the selections.

Which ever way you choose to shop, make sure to browse through the variety of versions. Select one particular verse, and look that same verse up in several different Bibles. Often, first-time Bible shoppers are not aware of the many versions. Reading before you buy gives you the opportunity to compare and select which style of writing allows you to understand His message. This is so very important, because I do not want you to miss out on knowing all the goodness of God.

You need to comfortably be able read His Word, so that you desire to read more tomorrow, and the next, and the next…etc. Just like as a child, I enjoyed singing the Bible song over and over; we need to read God’s Word, over and over. Unless you enjoy the style of writing, you may deem daily reading a chore instead of a pleasure. If you are like me, once you find your preferred style, you will sometimes seek out other versions just to better compare and understand what God wants us to know.

During your initial browsing phase, you will also note that Bibles, like cars, come with extras. My Bible is the NIV ( New International Version) Life Application Study Bible. At the bottom of each page, the publisher provides additional information on understanding specific verses, and how to apply them to our everyday lives. It also offers a pretty cover and a lay flat binding.

My husband’s Bible includes all of the above, plus larger print and book title tabs on the side for easy access.

But extras show up in price, so if you aren’t looking for anything fancy, you will not be mislead by a simple, standard paper cover Bible.

However, both my husband and I, really enjoy the advantage of the study Bible.  I benefit every time I read because it offers so much background information biblically. Honestly, I learn something new everyday. 

Here are three versions of John 3:16, for you to compare writing style:

King James Version (KJV) – For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

New International Version (NIV) – For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Contemporary English Version (CEV) – God loved the people of this world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who has faith in him will have eternal life and never really die.

To order my new book, Lift Him Up don’t Pull Him Down, go to Lulu.com or Amazon.com.