Bible Journaling Drawings: Simple & Beautiful Ways to Worship Through Art (Even If You’re Not an Artist)
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Bible journaling drawings are one of the sweetest ways to slow down and let Scripture soak into your heart. Whether you’re sketching a simple daisy or filling the margins with bright sunflowers, these little works of art can turn your quiet time into a peaceful, personal act of worship. And the best part? You don’t need to be an artist to do it.
In this post, I’m walking you through how to draw six easy and beautiful flowers step-by-step—perfect for your journaling Bible, War Binder, or even handmade cards. I’ll also share how to pair each drawing with a meaningful Scripture, plus tools, tips, and encouragement for getting started. If you’ve ever wanted to add a little more beauty and heart to your Bible pages, you’re in the right place.
Why drawing in your Bible matters
Drawing in your Bible isn’t about making it look perfect. It’s about making your quiet time personal and meaningful. When we sketch a flower next to a verse or trace out a word that speaks to us, we’re engaging with Scripture in a hands-on way. It slows us down, helps us listen more deeply, and makes God’s Word feel more alive and beautiful on the page.
Who this post is for
This is for anyone who loves Bible journaling or wants to try it, but especially if you’ve ever said, “I’m not artistic.” You don’t need to be! These drawings are easy, approachable, and made for all skill levels. If you’re craving a peaceful way to combine creativity with Scripture, this is for you.
What you’ll learn here
You’ll learn how to draw six simple, pretty flowers step-by-step for your journaling Bible, War Binder, or notebook. You’ll also get tips on tools, page prep, and how to pair drawings with verses. Whether you’re just beginning or looking for new inspiration, this guide will help you add beauty and meaning to your Bible pages.
Why Bible Journaling Drawings Are a Powerful Form of Worship
Biblical foundations for creativity
The very first thing we learn about God in Genesis is that He is Creator. Genesis 1:1 says, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” When we create, we reflect His image. Whether it’s drawing, painting, or even doodling in the margins, our creativity points back to Him. It’s part of how we worship.
The spiritual benefits of drawing Scripture
Drawing helps you linger in the Word. Instead of quickly reading a passage and moving on, sketching invites you to sit with a verse, think about it, and respond visually. That simple act of creating builds connection between your heart, your hands, and God’s Word. It also helps Scripture stick. You’ll remember verses more when you spend time illustrating them.
Combining meditation and creativity
Bible journaling drawings are a quiet invitation to slow down and reflect. As you draw, you’re not just filling a page. You’re meditating. You’re asking, “What does this verse mean to me today?” and “How is God speaking through it?” The drawing becomes a prayer in itself. And you don’t have to be good at it for it to be worshipful. God looks at your heart, not your lines.
What You Need to Get Started (Tools + Tips)
Basic supplies: pencils, pens, erasers, markers
You don’t need a big art stash to begin. Here are a few basics to get you started:
- A simple mechanical pencil or a regular pencil
- A white eraser or kneaded eraser
- Fine-line pens (like Micron or Fude Ball for inking over sketches)
- Mildliners or Crayola SuperTips for coloring
These are all easy to use and gentle on thin Bible paper.
Optional tools: acrylics, brushes, bottle stamps
If you want to get a little more creative, try:
- Watercolor or acrylic paint for backgrounds
- A small set of brushes
- Gel pens for sparkle or detail
- Household items like bottle caps for stamping circles
- Gesso
These aren’t must-haves, but they’re fun to experiment with as you grow in confidence.
Page prep and surface protection (gesso, test pages)
Bible pages can be delicate, so a little prep goes a long way:
- Use a piece of cardstock or printer paper behind the page you’re working on to catch bleed through
- If you’re painting, try applying a thin layer of clear gesso first
- Always test pens and paints on the back page or a scrap sheet before using them in your Bible
Taking a minute to prep helps your pages stay neat and clean.
Tips for choosing a journaling Bible
Not all Bibles are the same when it comes to journaling. Look for:
- A wide-margin or interleaved Bible (more space to draw)
- Paper weight of at least 38gsm (to avoid bleed through)
- A version you love reading: because the art is a response to the Word
Some favorites are the ESV Journaling Bible, NASB Note-Taker’s Bible, or the Illustrating Bible from Dayspring, which has super thick pages.
How to Draw a Sunflower
Sunflowers are cheerful and perfect for Bible journaling because they’re easy and meaningful. Here’s a simplified step-by-step:
- Lightly sketch a small circle for the center.
- Draw a larger circle around it (this outer shape will guide your petals).
3. Add a line downward for the stem, then add two simple oval leaves.
4. Around the big circle, draw thin heart-shaped petal—points touching the outer circle.
5. Fill in gaps between hearts with a “V” or “U” shape to add depth.
6. Hatch the center circle with crisscross lines to create texture.
7. Add veins on leaves with light lines.
8. Color: use yellows for petals, browns for center, and greens for the stem/leaves.
Pair it with Hebrews 12:2 in your Bible margins as a visual reminder to fix your eyes on Jesus.
How to Draw a Tulip
Tulips symbolize new life—an easy and elegant addition to your journaling.
- Draw a small circle where the flower will be.
- Sketch a gentle downward curve for the stem.
3. Over the circle, draw two overlapping oval petals.
4. Between them, add a pointed “V”-shaped petal.
5. Extend the stem and add two long leaves at the base.
6. Color it pink, red, or yellow and blend highlights.
How to Draw a Daisy
Simple, innocent, and perfect for any margin or prayer.
- Lightly draw a small center circle (you can draw a second circle if you need a guide for the length of the petals)
- Add petals: draw one petal, then one opposite; continue filling all around.
3. Keep petals slightly uneven to look natural.
4. Add tiny dots or lines in the center for detail.
5. Color yellow or leave white, and lightly shade petals for a soft look.
Works beautifully around verses about childlike faith or purity.
How to Draw a Spiral Flower
The easiest one—perfect when you want to stay in the moment.
- Draw a loose spiral starting in the center and expanding outward.
2. Around the outer edge, add 2–3 leaves, each shaped like a curved teardrop.
3. Color freely—no pressure, no rules.
4. Add dots or little hearts in the leaves for a fun twist.
Great for seasons when you’re resting or just want a quick visual companion to Scripture.
How to Draw a Dandelion
A sweet, airy flower symbolizing release and trust.
- Draw a small circle.
- Around it, draw thin lines radiating outward—vary their length.
3. Dot the ends to look like seeds ready to float away.
4. Add a curved line for the stem and simple leaves.
5. Color softly—like grey, pale yellow or off-white—and maybe shade the center.
Pair with Proverbs 3:5 as a visual reminder to trust the Lord.
How to Draw a Carnation
A bit more detailed but still beginner-friendly.
- Start with a rough oval or circle.
2. Along the edge, draw overlapping “ear-shaped” curves for petals.
3. Layer petals behind for fullness.
4. Draw a stem and clustered leaves or even berries.
5. Add a sloppy base color, then go over lines with a dark pen.
6. Shade gently to show depth.
7. Try coloring in pinks and reds—perfect for verses on God’s tender love.
Bonus: More Flower Ideas
- Heart flowers: Draw a heart, add a stem and leaves—done. Symbolic of love.
- Splotch flowers: Use a small watercolor splotch and draw petals around it—simple and fun.
- Bottle cap stamps: Dip a bottle cap in paint and press it, then add petals and leaves.
- Quick 5-minute doodles: Tiny flowers, swirls, or vines work wonderfully in tight spaces or morning pages.
Pairing Your Drawings With Scripture
Verses on joy, peace, surrender, strength
Sometimes the hardest part of Bible journaling drawings is knowing what Scripture to use. If you’re drawing flowers or other nature-inspired designs, themes like joy, peace, surrender, and strength are perfect places to start. Here are a few go-to verses that work beautifully with your artwork:
Joy
- Psalm 16:11 – “You will make known to me the way of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.; In Your right hand there are pleasures forever.
- Nehemiah 8:10 – “Then he said to them, “Go, eat the festival foods, drink the sweet drinks, and send portions to him who has nothing prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your refuge.”
Peace
- Isaiah 26:3 – “The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, Because he trusts in You.”
- John 14:27 – “Peace I leave you, My peace I give you; not as the world gives, do I give to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, nor fearful.
Surrender
- Proverbs 3:5 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding.”
- Matthew 11:28 – “Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Strength
- Philippians 4:13 – “ I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.
- Isaiah 40:31 – “Yet those who wait for the Lord Will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary.”
You can choose verses that match what you’re feeling—or what you’re praying for.
Printable list of verse ideas
To make it easy, I’ve created a simple printable with some of these verses . Print it out, cut it down, and tape it inside your journaling Bible or War Binder. That way, whenever you sit down to draw, you’ll have a Scripture to go with it.
Don’t forget to download the free verse list.
How to let Scripture guide your artwork
Let the Word lead the art. Not the other way around. Before you even sketch a line, pause and read the verse. Ask:
- What does this Scripture feel like?
- Is there a word or phrase that stands out to me?
- Does it bring to mind a picture, a shape, or a symbol?
Maybe a verse about peace brings soft petals and calming lines. Maybe a verse about joy makes you want to draw bright sunflowers or wild vines. Let the Scripture set the tone. Your drawing doesn’t have to be perfect. It just needs to be prayerful.
Sometimes, it’s not about illustrating the exact words. It’s about creating something that helps you hold onto the truth God is showing you.
Let your pages bloom with His Word.
Tools & Tips
- Pencil, eraser, fine-liner pen, and markers are all you need to start.
- Optional: acrylics, gel pens, and stamp-making supplies.
- Use a cardstock backing or gesso to prevent bleed-through.
- Journaling Bible? Choose one with wide margins or thick paper.
My Final Thoughts
Bible journaling drawings turn quiet Bible time into an act of worship. Every flower you draw, be it sunflowers, tulips, or daisies, they all become visual prayers. You don’t need to be an artist; you just need a willing heart.
Try one of these tutorials this week and let me know which one felt meaningful. Share your pages below or in our She Opens the Bible Community group! I’d love to see your artwork and encouragement!
Bible Journaling Drawings FAQ
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Can I really draw in my Bible?
Yes, you can. Bible journaling drawings are a form of worship and reflection. As long as your heart is focused on connecting with God, your artwork is an act of devotion, not distraction.
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What if I mess up a drawing?
Mistakes are part of the process. You can cover them with washi tape, stickers, or even turn them into a new design. Remember, your Bible doesn’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.
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Do I need expensive supplies to start?
Not at all. A simple pencil, eraser, and a few markers or pens are enough to begin. You can always add more tools later if you want to experiment.
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Which pens and markers won’t bleed through Bible pages?
Micron pens, Mildliners, Crayola SuperTips, and gel pens are popular options for Bible journaling because they’re gentle on thin paper and don’t usually bleed. (When in doubt, gesso the page, first.)
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What kind of Bible should I use for journaling drawings?
Look for a journaling Bible with wide margins or interleaved pages and thicker paper. Some great options include the ESV Journaling Bible, the Illustrating Bible, or the NASB Note-Taker’s Bible.
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Do I need to be artistic to start Bible journaling drawings?
Not at all. These drawing tutorials are beginner-friendly and designed to help you worship creatively, no matter your skill level. Your heart is what matters most.
Join the conversation in the She Opens Her Bible Community
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Sign up at She Opens Her Bible and let’s seek Jesus together.
About our author…
Sue Nelson is a Christian author, Bible teacher, and conference speaker with a heart for helping women grow deeper in their walk with God. She has written several books on Christian marriage, Proverbs 31 living, verse mapping, and the Twelve Tribes of Israel. Her Bible studies and devotional tools are used by women’s ministries across the United States.
With years of experience teaching Scripture and leading small groups, Sue has spoken at numerous women’s conferences and retreats nationwide. She actively serves in multiple ministries at her home church—including Hospitality, Welcome PSG Corp, and Leaders of the Pack—and is known for her willingness to serve wherever there’s a need.
A wife, mom, grandmother, and proud dog/cat mom, Sue lives a life centered on Christ. She supports a wide range of Christian causes, including Bible distribution, scholarships for faith-based retreats, homeless outreach, food pantries, and clothing ministries.
You can connect with her through her women’s Bible study community, She Opens Her Bible
NASB – “Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation“