I often share screenshots of my Bible programs but last week while studying I had to take a picture of this. I had several open Bibles – KJV, NKJV, ESV, and my LSB – as I was digging into the text doing some sermon prep. I love my computer programs but there’s something great about having an actual physical Bible. And yes that is my old couch – my desk was too crowded so I use the couch space next to my chair as a table. We are blessed in this country to have so many translations, tools, and resources when some countries don’t have any.
A good Bible version for everyday use and carry is essential but having multiple Bible translations for study is very beneficial. However, it doesn’t have to break the bank as you build your library of Bibles. The most inexpensive route is electronically with a program such as Blue Letter Bible. Most Bible versions are available there free of charge and they have apps compatible with all cellular devices. That’s a good way to get started and will help in your studies. But… when buying physical Bibles on a tight budget, look in thrift stores, library sales, and yard sales. Often you can find excellent Bibles at great prices. Case in point, I recently stopped at our local library sale and found a really nice hardback NKJV Study Bible yesterday in brand new condition that normally cost around $40 for just $2!
Another great way to find Bibles is online. Depending on what you are looking for, places like Ebay or Facebook Marketplace have proven to be ideal places to find some great deals in my experience. Have fun with it and don’t be afraid to negotiate with the sellers when that’s an option.
Online retailers like Amazon or Christianbook or even the publishers themselves (Thomas Nelson Bibles, Three Sixteen Publishing, etc) are great too. Watch for their sales. Whether you celebrate or not, Christmas is coming and that means good prices this time of year!
All year long, Christianbook.com actually has a section for “slightly imperfect” Bibles and even a place where you can purchase “imperfectly imprinted Bibles.” I know that might not be for everyone, but if you’re looking for a good discount, there are some to be found there and besides that, if the cover of your Bible brings you pride, you’ve missed the point! Don’t get me wrong, I do love me a good high quality leather, but I also love a good discount.
As always, if you are still blessed to have a Christian book store close by to you shop there first, before they go the way of the dinosaurs. I sure miss mine!
Don’t forget what your Bible is for. Someone once said, the worse Bible is the one you don’t read. I like what Spurgeon said once too, “If you find a professing Christian indifferent to his Bible, you may be sure that the very dust upon its cover will rise up in judgment against him.”
Fill your study, your home, your heart with God’s Word and share with others. I guarantee you’ll be blessed.
And when you do get your new Bible, be sure to properly “break it in.” (Note: If you have gotten a Bible from me within the past couple of years, I did this at least once for you.) Here is a video tutorial on how to do it: