Are you hoping to gift a Bible this holiday season but feeling overwhelmed by the endless options? From translations to study notes and design styles, the choices can feel paralyzing. The weight of the decision may even leave you with a tightening chest.

Every year, I get asked the same question: “Which Bible should I buy?” After more than 20 years in ministry and parenting three children, I’ve had the opportunity to explore many Bible versions firsthand. One memory that stands out is walking into my seven-year-old son’s room to say goodnight, only to find him reading his Bible. I hadn’t encouraged him to read independently at such a young age, so I assumed it was a one-time thing. But he surprised me by saying, “I read every night before I go to sleep. I’m in La-la-vit-i-cus.” Leviticus. My seven-year-old. He still reads his Bible voluntarily before bed, and I credit the translation for helping him understand God’s Word even as a child.

Below, I’ve compiled our family’s favorite Bibles by age group and need. We’ll cover which translations work best for kids, tweens, and new Christians, as well as my personal favorites for women, men, and even seasoned Bible nerds. I’ll keep it short (as much as I want to nerd out on this topic) for your sanity. 

Understanding Bible Translations

Before diving into recommendations, let’s talk translations. Choosing the right version for your reader can make all the difference in their ability to connect with Scripture. For example, gifting a New King James Bible to a child just learning to read might look thoughtful, but the complex language could be discouraging. On the other hand, a serious Bible student may appreciate a more literal translation. Below, I’ll share which versions I recommend for various ages and purposes, but first, here’s a quick breakdown of translation styles.

Bible translations fall on a spectrum:

• Word for Word: Prioritizes accuracy to the original languages, sometimes at the cost of readability.
• Thought for Thought: Focuses on meaning, making the text more accessible for modern readers.
• Optimal Equivalence: aims to balance between formal and informal language
• Paraphrase: Rephrases Scripture in contemporary language for fresh insight.

Choosing a translation depends on the reader’s needs. For example, a paraphrase like The Message might be perfect for coffee-on-the-porch mornings, offering fresh perspectives on familiar passages. Meanwhile, word-for-word translations like the ESV are great for deep study.

One word of advice:

Don’t get caught up in the “this version is evil” hype. Yes, some translations omit verses due to the ancient manuscripts used, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be used for God’s glory. My husband’s NIV Bible brought him closer to Jesus as a child, and I personally love the insights found in The Passion Translation. The Holy Spirit can guide us through any version.

NOTES ABOUT STUDY BIBLES

Study Bibles are a powerful tool for understanding Scripture, thanks to commentary from scholars who’ve devoted their lives to biblical research. But it’s important to remember that study notes are man’s interpretations, not God’s Holy Word. I always explain this to my kids when gifting a new Bible. Ultimately, the Holy Spirit – not commentators or translators – leads us into all truth. Whichever version you choose, He will use it for the reader’s good and His glory.

Our Favorite Bibles by Age Group

KIDS:

TODDLERS:

The Beginner’s Bible: Timeless Children’s Stories – 

• The Beginner’s Bible is a timeless classic. Parents who are new to Scripture will enjoy learning Bible basics with their littles. Both of our girls enjoyed sitting on our laps and flipping story-lined pages.

OLDER, NON-READERS:

One Big Story Bible Storybook, Hardcover: Connecting Christ Throughout God’s Story – 

• This isn’t your average toddler Bible. Each story beautifully reflects Jesus, often leaving parents a little misty-eyed. Just be aware that longer passages might challenge younger, wiggly readers.

SCHOOL-AGED READERS:

NIrV, Adventure Bible for Early Readers – 

• When our son Evan started reading, he wanted a “real” Bible. Many kids his age enjoyed The Action Bible, but Evan preferred something closer to what we used. However, many Bibles labeled for young readers use more challenging translations like the NKJV or CSV. I found the language to be too cumbersome for our little guy. The NIrV’s simple yet accurate language was the perfect fit and remains his favorite at nine years old.

ALL KIDS UNDER 12:  

Superbook: 

• While not a printed Bible, this subscription app offers engaging videos and cartoons for all ages. Superbook has been a staple in our home for years.

TWEENS:

Tyndale NLT Girls Life Application Study Bible – 

• Tweens face deeper life issues, and this study Bible addresses them with grace and readability.
• Here is the tween boy version, though we only have experience with the girl Bible: https://a.co/d/73cjm6b

TEENS:

NIV, True Images Bible –

• Call me shallow, but I wanted a Bible that was aesthetic (as the young people say) for our teen but still covered some of the challenges she faced. I wasn’t afraid of commentary about sensitive subjects, as I try to be fairly straightforward for our kids. Today, I catch our oldest reading her NIV True Images Bible often (plus all of her aesthetic highlighters). Happy mom moments.  
• Here is the teen boy version, though we only have experience with the girl Bible: https://a.co/d/5JliGxV

ADULTS:

WOMEN:

NLT Life Application Study Bible – 

• The Life Application Study Bible Is Today’s #1–Selling Study Bible, according to Tyndale. It certainly was my first choice for more than a decade. The study notes and maps were insightful. The notes were not always flat thoughts but often aimed to draw the reader closer to Jesus. I used my Life Application NLT until the pages finally fell apart, and I thought it was time for me to switch to a more word-for-word translation.

ESV Single Column Journaling Bible – 

• A Study Bible has been my preference for many years. However, I wanted to clear the page to allow space to process my thoughts and insights. I also wanted a more literal translation for word studies. This beautiful ESV journaling Bible has been a blessing. The NLT may still be my preferred translation, but I have enjoyed filling pages with notes.

MEN:

Every Man’s Bible: New Living Translation – 

• My husband, BJ, has loved this Bible for over a decade. The size is inviting instead of giving off the overwhelming impression of the thicker versions. Features like hard-to-tackle topics and a masculine design make the Every Man’s Bible a great gift. 

MORE ADVANCED-IN-AGE READERS:

Tyndale NLT Life Application Study Bible (Large Print) –

• I bought The Life Application Study Bible in Large Print for my parents for Christmas many years ago. My mom was a KJV-only believer, and my dad was…well not the biggest fan of any Bible. Today, they read together every morning. The easy translation of the NLT, large print, and explanations have been a blessing to their faith. 

BIBLE NERDS AND MINISTRY LEADERS:

NLT Chronological Life Application Study Bible – 

• This NLT Chronological Bible is an impressive piece of research and belongs on every serious Scripture student’s shelf, in my opinion. Try reading the crucifixion passages from each gospel laid out in chronological order. Incredible. Not to mention, there are extensive study notes, ministry moments, and color illustrations/photos. It’s a biblical masterpiece.  

Choosing a Bible can feel daunting, but I hope this list clears the field a bit and gives you confidence in your choice. Whichever version you choose, trust that the Holy Spirit will use it for the reader’s good and God’s glory.

Merry Christmas and Happy Shopping!

With Love,