Follow Me On My Spiritual Journey
Spirituality. Faith. Religion. It’s a topic I’ve struggled with my whole life. And one I certainly don’t talk to other people about, given the certain climate of the world. It’s SO divisive. I’m not a fan.
Growing up, I wasn’t raised in the church or in a certain religion. My parents let me discover that part about me myself, and I’m forever grateful for it.
For a bit I followed Christianity because that’s what I thought I was “supposed” to choose. I did Awanas. I went to church camp with my cousin. But, with that, came church trauma. I was getting to condemned to hell as an 8 year old child because of my likes (Harry Potter, Mary Kate and Ashley, etc). I stopped after that. To this day, I STILL get condemned to hell for the same things. But now I know it’s the people who are religious extremists who do that.
After that, I discovered Wicca, and through that, a broader range of Paganism. That felt SO much more me, and still does. I love the nature aspect, the fact that there can be more than one correct god/goddess, the histories, mythologies, etc.
Even deeper STILL through that, I found that a lot of Pagans actually combine aspects from other religions around the world. So then I started studying other world religions.
There was so much in other religions that resonated with me. I think there’s a lot of truth and good in the religions around the world.
Christianity is the ONE religion I have avoided doing a deeper study and trying to find my take on it. I feel like there’s a lot of stigma around it. Either you’re an extremist, or “not Christian enough”. It’s either black or white. No grey area.
But lately, I’ve felt called to study Christianity more. There’s been multiple signs for me, and if I’ve learned anything through my religious studies, you follow the signs.
I want to study the Bible. I want to do Bible studies. I want to find like minded people who aren’t going to judge my path or my understanding of things.
Sooo. Where do I get a “pretty” Bible? I want one that I’ll enjoy reading and can do Bible journaling with. What are some good Bible studies? Can be online or in book format. Is there a more “contemporary” version of the Bible? I don’t want a New King James Version. I do know that much.
Help a girl out Christian girlies!
Pictures from when I last felt a spiritual reset. In the Smoky Mountains in Gatlinburg, TN, and in the Outer Banks, NC
#embracevulnerability #Lemon8Diary #shareyourthoughts #spirituality #spiritualjourney #biblestudy #bible #christian #christianmotivation #christianlemon8
It’s truly a beautiful thing to embark on a spiritual journey, and I completely resonate with the desire to integrate that journey more profoundly into daily living. After all, what’s faith if it doesn’t touch every aspect of our lives? When I first started intentionally discovering my spirituality and exploring how it could truly shape my days, I realized it wasn't just about big moments or Sunday services, but the small, consistent choices. For those of us looking for Bibles that are not only spiritually enriching but also visually appealing – what some might call 'pretty' Bibles – there are so many wonderful options now! I’ve personally found that having a Bible I enjoy holding and looking at makes me more likely to pick it up. Many publishers offer beautiful journaling Bibles with wide margins for notes, illustrations, or even coloring. Look for editions with aesthetically pleasing covers (leather, linen, floral designs), unique fonts, and sometimes even gilded edges. Some popular options include the ESV Journaling Bible, NIV Artisan Collection, or various editions from Hosanna Revival. They make daily reading a real delight! Speaking of contemporary versions, you’re definitely not alone in wanting something more accessible than the King James Version. While KJV is beautiful, its older language can be a barrier for truly integrating the text into modern understanding. I’ve explored several, and here are a few that might resonate: New International Version (NIV): A very popular, balanced translation known for its readability and accuracy, great for everyday reading. New Living Translation (NLT): This version aims for thought-for-thought translation, making it incredibly easy to read and understand, fantastic for daily devotionals. English Standard Version (ESV): A more word-for-word translation than the NIV, balancing precision with readability and widely used. The Message: A paraphrase that presents the Bible in very contemporary, conversational language, excellent for fresh perspectives. Choosing a Bible often comes down to personal preference for readability versus literal accuracy, so I’d suggest reading a few sample passages online from different versions. Now, onto Bible studies! Integrating study into daily life doesn't have to be overwhelming. I’ve found a mix of approaches works best: Devotional Books: Many authors offer daily or weekly devotionals with scripture, reflection, and prayer – perfect for starting your day with spiritual focus. Topical Studies: If there's a specific area you want to grow in, look for studies focused on those topics. Lifeway, She Reads Truth, and Love God Greatly all offer excellent resources. Online Communities & Apps: Apps like YouVersion Bible App offer free reading plans. Websites often host online Bible study groups, providing community and accountability. Small Group Studies: Joining a local church or community group for a Bible study can be incredibly enriching, offering diverse perspectives and support. Beyond dedicated study, true integration of your spiritual journey happens in the everyday moments. Try starting your day with gratitude, taking a few moments for silent reflection, practicing mindfulness as you go about tasks, or intentionally looking for ways to serve others. Even simple things like listening to worship music during your commute or reading a spiritually uplifting book can profoundly deepen your connection. Remember, it's a journey, not a destination, and every step, big or small, counts towards a richer, more integrated spiritual life.
