What to Write in a Bible Gift: A Guide to Personalising Your Present

You’ve found it. After much thought, you’ve chosen the perfect Bible to give as a gift. It’s a beautiful edition, the translation is just right, and you know they’re going to love it. But as you prepare to wrap it, you open the cover and are met with a blank, intimidating page.

What do you write inside?

An inscription is what transforms a wonderful book into a personal, cherished keepsake. It’s a chance to add a layer of love and meaning that will be read and re-read for years to come. But the pressure to get it right can be overwhelming.

Don't worry. This simple guide is here to offer gentle suggestions for what to write inside a Bible, from a short and sweet message to a heartfelt prayer or a life-giving verse.

To personalise a Bible gift, you can write a simple, heartfelt message with the date, inscribe a meaningful Scripture verse of blessing like Numbers 6:24-26 or Jeremiah 29:11, or write a short, personal prayer for the recipient.

The Golden Rules of Bible Inscription

Before we look at examples, remember these two simple rules:

1. Keep it short and simple. You don't need to write a long essay. A few heartfelt words are far more powerful.
2. Write from the heart. The most important thing is that the message is genuine and personal to you and the person receiving it.

Idea 1: The Simple & Sweet Message

Sometimes, the most classic message is the most effective. It’s a timeless way to mark the occasion and express your love. You can’t go wrong with a simple, personal note.

Examples:

To our dearest [Name], May this book be a guide and a comfort to you always. With all our love, Christmas 2025 [Your Name(s)]

For [Name], So thrilled to be on this journey of faith with you. Love from, [Your Name]

Idea 2: The Meaningful Scripture Verse

Inscribing a Bible with another verse from the Bible is a beautiful tradition. It’s like highlighting the first, most important verse for the reader—a personal blessing or promise to guide them as they begin to read.

Suggestions for Verses:

• A Classic Blessing (Perfect for anyone):

"The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace." - Numbers 6:24-26 (NIV)

• For a Young Person or Student (A verse of guidance):

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)

• For a Couple or a Wedding Gift (A verse on love):

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud... It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." - 1 Corinthians 13:4, 7 (NIV)

• For a New Believer (A verse of assurance):

"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." - John 3:16 (NIV)

Idea 3: The Personal Prayer or Blessing

Writing a short prayer in the cover of a Bible is a deeply personal and moving gesture. It turns the gift into an act of blessing.

A Simple Template:

For [Name], My prayer is that as you read these words, you would discover more of God’s incredible love for you and be filled with His peace and joy. With love, [Your Name]

The Finishing Touches

• Use the right pen! To make sure your inscription lasts and looks beautiful, use a good quality pen that won’t bleed through the delicate paper. A fine-tipped archival ink pen is a perfect choice.
• Make it a complete gift. Why not pair the Bible with a beautiful pen, a set of no-bleed highlighters, or a journal?

A thoughtful inscription is the final, heartfelt touch that turns a beautiful Bible into a priceless treasure. Choose the words that feel right to you, and you will have given a gift that truly keeps on giving.

Still looking for the perfect Bible? Try our Bible Finder for more insightful recommendations.