Welcome to my NEW Blog Series Two Paths, One Savior: Conversations with Glory
If you are receiving this blog via email, clicking the post title will show the best version.
About the Series: This new series shares the story of my friendship with Glory. She is Nigerian, and I am from the United States, yet God tied our hearts together in a beautiful way. We met at a Bible study in Lagos, Nigeria, and her love for Jesus was clear from the very first day.
Glory later moved to Canada, and during a recent visit, I interviewed her about her life and faith. I’ll be sharing one topic each week:
• Week 2 – Early Life and Faith – This Blog
• Week 3 – Journey and Calling
• Week 4 – Singleness and Ministry
• Week 5 – Writing and Ministry Together
• Week 6 – Reflection and Encouragement
• Week 7 – Friendship and Connection
EARLY LIFE AND FAITH, Week 2
Q. What was your childhood like, and how did it shape your walk with the Lord?
A. My childhood was very interesting and very adventurous. One of the things that shaped my childhood, as well as my religion, is that my dad, growing up, was my best friend. I was very close to him, and after I gave my life to Jesus, coming from a Catholic family, my family did not accept it. When I would not give up my faith, I was disowned by my family. This hurt my relationship with my dad and my heart, so I turned all of that attention and affection that I once shared with my dad to God. That is how I understood the father-child relationship with God, because I had grown up with my father. I never struggled to see God as my father, and it shaped my faith and my walk with God.
Q. When did you first sense God drawing your heart toward Christ?
A. I think I always sensed God calling me to leave everything for him and serve him. I think I always knew that I would serve God with all that I am and all that I have for as long as I live, so it’s something I’ve always known from the time I gave my life to Jesus.
Q. Who were the people who most influenced your faith growing up?
A. One person who had the greatest influence on my life and my faith in those early days was a guy called Jonathan. We were in the same fellowship, and he had such an infectious love for God that he would read the Bible every day, going from class to class, preaching the gospel, and singing at the top of his voice, telling everybody about his love for Jesus. I just loved the way he loved God, and we became very close friends. So he had the greatest influence in my life because I remember at some point some of my friends in fellowship said, “You remind us of Jonathan,” I always loved to sing and was always singing.”
And, I was always with my Bible, and I would go around preaching the word of God in all my classes. Yeah, the greatest influence in my early Christian life was Jonathan.
Fact:
Ever since the day Glory stepped into my life—thirteen years ago now—I’ve watched her walk with a faith that never wavers. I’ve seen it in quiet moments, in hard seasons, and in the way she speaks about Jesus with such natural joy. Her faith strengthens mine. Her courage encourages me. And she remains one of the truest examples I know of someone who loves to share Christ with the world.
Friendship Fun in Central Texas, 2019
Bible Verse:
“Be steady, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:58 (NKJV)
Next Week: Journey and Calling
Feel free to repost, forward, or save. And please subscribe to GreenePastures.org to receive blogs by Patti Greene.
If you receive this article through email, you can click on the title to read it on GreenePastures.org for the best formatting, photos, and more.
———-
Personal Review: KJV Color Code Study Bible by Patti Greene
I recently received the King James Version Color Code Study Bible and want to share my appreciation and main observations.
KJV Color Code Study Bible. Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2026.
ISBN: 9781400350988
First Impressions: Lovely At First Look
When this almost 2,000-page leather soft, red-letter Bible arrived, I thought, “What a beautiful Bible.” The rich purple cover with its elegant indentation makes it feel special—an excellent, memorable gift. Its design appeals to gift-givers, collectors, and anyone who values thoughtful presentation. This is a Bible worth treasuring or sharing. The white satin ribbon marker is beautiful and practical.
Color Code Study Bible Features
Depth and Richness: Great for Learning More
I was impressed by the substantial commentary, notes, and archaeological insights, which are clearly for those desiring more than a casual understanding of God’s Word. One of my favorite features is how charts are placed throughout the Bible. This makes a noticeable difference when studying, keeping the reader engaged without always having to flip pages to find answers.
Visual Impact: Very Well Designed
The visual elements are excellent. Over 270 photos provide context and richness. Thomas Nelson excelled here.
Color Code Study Bible Map
Study Tools: Extremely Useful
As a Bible teacher, I appreciated these study helps:
Book introductions and summaries
“How to study” guidance for each book
Footnotes that clarify meaning and context
Topic-based articles (obedience, suffering, God’s will, and more)
The way additional insight is woven directly into the text—such as explanations of locations or historical references—is incredibly helpful and meaningful.
Nothing better than reading the Bible while in a massage chair!
Organization: Designed With the Reader in Mind
The layout and structure make this Bible easy to navigate:
A helpful table of contents
A topical index with page numbers
Cut-out tabs for quickly locating books (thumb-indexing)
A Scripture index highlighted with colors to link to major topics in the Bible. They consist of the following.
Purple – God the Father
Blue – God the Son
Gold – God the Holy Spirit
Red – Salvation
Green – Sanctification
Gray – Sin and Temptation
Orange – Last things
Color Code Study Bible
These features show purposeful planning and a desire to truly serve the reader.
Practical Use: Perfect For Those Who “Engage” With Their Bible
I also appreciate the wider 1.25” margins, which allow for making notes—something I value personally and as a teacher. The inclusion of character profiles, prayers, a concordance, and a weights-and-measures section adds even more depth.
Color Coding: A Creative Idea with Some Challenges
I want to share my thoughts on the color-coding system, as this was of particular interest to me.
My husband is colorblind, specifically with red, green, and brown tones, so I evaluated the color-coding system from that perspective. While color-coding is creative and has potential, in practice, several colors—particularly red (which looks pink), gold (which looks yellow), green, and orange—are difficult to distinguish for those with color vision problems. The colors often blend or appear muted due to their similar tones and low contrast. This reduces the intended usefulness for colorblind readers.
Various Kinds of Colorblindness by color-blindness.com
A Suggestion from Personal Experience
Based on what works well for my husband, using stronger, higher-contrast colors would greatly improve accessibility. Bold tones are much easier to distinguish than soft pastels; however, this might not be advisable because dark colors may show through on the pages. But these colors would work for many colorblind folks.
Dark blue
Deep purple
Black
Bold tones (rather than soft pastels) tend to be much easier to distinguish.
How I See It as A Teacher
As a Bible teacher for ladies ages 40-90, I try to be mindful of the needs of those I teach, including those with visual challenges and those in an aging population. Because of this, I would likely not use or recommend this Bible as a primary teaching resource in a group setting. Relying on subtle color distinctions could make it difficult for some to fully engage. However, I would absolutely recommend it to individuals with strong eyesight who enjoy a visual, color-based approach to study. For them, this Bible can be a very enriching resource for study.
Color Code Study Bible Scripture Links Per Color
Additional Considerations
A couple of smaller points I wanted to note:
The print, while described as large, felt somewhat small to me.
The Bible is a bit heavy, which may be a consideration for some users.
A New King James Version of this Bible with the same study notes would be very welcome, as many younger Bible readers prefer versions other than the King James Version.
Closing Thoughts
The Color Code Study Bible is engaging and meaningful, but it is not for everyone.
If you receive this article through email, you can click on the title to read it on GreenePastures.org for the best formatting, photos, and more.
As a Bible reviewer for Thomas Nelson, I received the NKJV Foundation Study Bible, and I am excited to share my honest thoughts with you.
***************
Bible Review by Patti Greene NKJV Foundation Study Bible Thomas Nelson ISBN: 9781400351022
1. First Impressions: A Simple and Beautiful Bible
The cover caught my eye right away. The words “Holy Bible” are printed in gold on a warm brown cover. The stitching around the edges makes it look durable and well-made. The spine says “Foundation Study Bible,” and the whole design feels classy and peaceful.
It is the kind of Bible someone could use for many years.
NKJV Foundation Study Bible
2. A Presentation Page That Feels Personal
Inside the front cover, the presentation page includes spaces for Presented to, By, Date, and Occasion. I love this. Many Bibles leave out the “occasion,” but it is a great addition. When I give a Bible as a birthday gift, Christmas gift, wedding gift, or “just because I love you” gift, I like writing the occasion down. This small detail makes the Bible feel more personal and meaningful.
3. Easy Navigation for All Readers
The Table of Contents lists the books of the Old Testament and New Testament in order. It also includes a list of abbreviations for each book. Many people—especially those new to the Bible won’t know these abbreviations, so this is very helpful.
The introduction and preface explain:
a. How the New King James Version (NKJV) was created
b. Why this translation was made
c. How the text is formatted, and
d. How the translator notes work
These pages help readers understand the purpose and style of this Bible.
4. Helpful Introductions to Each Book of the Bible
Each of the 66 books begins with a short introduction. It includes:
a. The author
b. When the book was written
c. A key verse
d. The main theme
These introductions give readers a strong starting point before they begin reading each book of the Bible.
5. Study Notes and Subheadings That Bring Clarity
Because this is a study Bible, many pages include notes at the bottom. These notes explain verses, provide references, and offer helpful background information.
The subheadings inside each chapter are also very useful. I noticed this especially while reading 1 Kings and 2 Kings. The subheadings helped me keep track of the people, places, and events. They make the stories easier to follow.
If you teach the Bible, these notes can help you prepare a lesson quickly, although that should not be one’s priority!!!
NKJV Foundation Study Bible
Wide Margins for Note‑Takers
One of my favorite features is the wide margins. I love taking notes in my Bible, and I often run out of space. These margins give plenty of room for writing thoughts and prayers, or for referencing.
For people who journal in their Bible, this is a wonderful feature.
7. Helpful Indexes for Deeper Study
This Bible includes several tools that help readers study God’s Word:
a. Notes Index by Location
This index begins in Genesis 1:1 and continues through 1 John 3:24. It helps readers follow important themes throughout the Bible.
b. Theological Notes Index by Title
This alphabetical list shows topics and the verses that go with them.
c. Concordance
The concordance is more complete than many Bibles this size. It includes words such as prayer, compassion, and covetousness.
These tools make this Bible helpful for personal study, teaching, or preparing devotionals.
8. Maps That Are Clear and Easy to Read
The back of the Bible includes colorful maps. They are bright, clear, and well‑designed. I especially like that Paul’s missionary journeys are spread across two pages. If they were squeezed onto one page, the names of the cities would be too small to read. This layout was a smart choice.
9. A Teenager’s Viewpoint
My granddaughter (almost 16) went through the Bible and shared her thoughts:
– The cover looks nice and could be used by anyone.
– There is a lot of room on the sides for notes.
– The print size is fine for me.
– I like the gold on the spine and page edges.
– It would work well for Sunday School.
– I understand why the two‑page map needed to be separated—it makes it easier to read.
– I would add my own tabs if I owned it.
– At my church, most teens use the Christian Standard Bible (CSB) because that is what my pastor uses. My friends mostly use the CSB, the New Living Translation (NLT), or the New International Version (NIV), so the New King James Version (NKJV) is less common among the teenagers I know.
Her comments reminded me that different age groups often prefer different translations, but the design of this Bible appeals to many people.
10. Final Thoughts: A Bible for Many Readers
The NKJV Foundation Study Bible (NKJV) is simple, pretty, and very useful. The study notes, wide margins, clear subheadings, and helpful indexes make it a strong choice for:
a. Long‑time Bible readers
b. Sunday School students
c. Teachers and small‑group leaders
d. Men, women, and teenagers who enjoy a clean, classic design
My only challenge is the print size. At 71 years old, it is too small for me (even after having cataract surgery). However, my granddaughter thinks it is perfect, and I believe most readers will feel the same.
Overall, this Bible is a wonderful tool for anyone who wants to grow in their understanding of God’s Word.
NKJV Foundation Study Bible
Prayer:
My heavenly Father, help me as I read Your word to understand it more clearly. Help me make time every day to seek and meditate on You. Speak to me, make me aware of others’ needs, and teach me to love them unconditionally, as you do. Thank you, Lord.
Bible Verse:
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. 2 Timothy 3:16 NKJV
If you are receiving this blog through email, click on the title of the post to see the best version—permission given by Patti Greene and Ellsworth Johnson to comment, share, and forward this article.
——————–
That’s Not Fair!
Life isn’t fair!
One of the biggest complaints non-believers have about Christianity is how “unfair” it is that God throws people into Hell who, in the observer’s eyes, seem like “nice” people.
After all, these people aren’t murderers, adulterers, thieves, wife-beaters, drug users or any of a long list of unsavory types. Yet God sees fit to toss into the abyss anyone who has not accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
“That’s not fair!” they exclaim.
In their eyes, that upstanding next-door neighbor, or that decent lady who teaches their son’s second-grade class at school, definitely merits a place in Glory for not finding themselves in Paul’s list of those who will not eventually make their way into heaven:
“Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.” 1 Corinthians 6:9–10
The trouble with this way of thinking is that the wrong standard is being applied.
As one of my pastors said recently: “God does not grade on a ‘curve’!” He demands absolute perfection… a bar we weak humans can never reach on our own, no matter how “good” we may appear to ourselves.
And besides: where does the concept of “fairness” ultimately come from, anyway? Nowhere but the mind, hand and mouth of our God, from which all truth, good and righteousness flow.
What’s “fair”:
What’s Fair?
What’s “fair” is that all sin be judged completely and immediately.
If sin was indeed handled in that way, and true justice was executed, none of us would even be here.
When Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden, God would have immediately blasted them into Hell, and sent the Earth and the rest of the universe back into non-existence. Then He would have rolled up the red carpet of creation and stuffed it back into the infinite fount from which it sprang, regretting the very idea of making man and allowing him to have a free will.
Isn’t it amazing that God does not pass summary judgment on our sins, and is instead long-suffering and patient, desiring that we ultimately heed the Spirit’s conviction and come to repentance? This distinctive, called grace, separates Christianity from every other religion mankind has ever embraced.
What’s (really!) “not fair”:
Going back to the Garden: what’s not fair is that God, instead of instantly condemning sin, made a way for man to reconcile himself back to God… something which He did NOT have to do.
Further, this means of reconciliation required Jesus, His only begotten Son, whom He loved very much, to give up His place in Glory, at the Father’s right hand, to come down here and live a sinless life.
Jesus’ reward for doing this? An agonizing death by being nailed to a cross, after being whipped mercilessly all night and convicted on trumped-up charges at an illegal trial. He became sin (ironic, for one who never knew sin) long enough for the Father to pour out judgment on Him so that every human, from that day forward, has a path to redemption.
It says much of our Lord that He agreed to do this before time ever began or the universe was ever created. He knew going in that mankind was going to screw up this Creation thing and would need a way out from instant and eternal damnation.
Jesus volunteered to trade in His infinite glory to take on the limited existence of a vulnerable human, to live the life we should have lived… and die the death we should have died.
Again: Jesus, too, did not have to do this.
In yet another wildly unequal proposition, Jesus offers to exchange our sin-soaked and wretched record before God for His righteousness, so that we may not receive the penalty which our disobedience and imperfection demand.
Oh, the unfairness of it all!
And yet… literally… THANK GOD for it!
But wait… there’s MORE!
Wait, What’s More?
You know what else is not fair?
That we live for one second beyond this moment, because it allows us the opportunity to sin and further offend God. Our hearts beat and our lungs draw breath, sustained by Him, despite His knowing full well that we will continue to “blow it” by veering from the path He has set for us.
That we receive from Him any food, clothing, shelter or manner of provision to sustain and complement our lives. It is only because He loves us that He is ready and willing to do all these good things, which come to Him as easily as uttering the word.
That sinful man, instead of acknowledging Him as creator and sustainer, denies Him and mocks His name. The sheer ingratitude of this is staggering, considering the infinite Being on the other end, who created the entire universe out of nothing, and everything in it. He brought mankind onto the scene and gave him a place of honor in the created order. His recompense for doing this? Instead of receiving glory, thanks and appreciation, He is ignored and disobeyed, while scorn and rejection are heaped upon Him.
So the next time someone accuses Christianity of being so grossly unfair, I would recommend responding with a simple two-word question.
“To whom?”
By Ellsworth Johnson
Ellsworth Johnson is a retired software engineer and high school math teacher. He came to faith in Jesus Christ in 1992, following the full, complete recovery from a brain aneurysm which should have killed him. Having lived in America’s largest cities (New York, Los Angeles, Houston), he now calls Lansing, Michigan home. Divorced, he has one son, Joshua, a junior in college, majoring in mathematics.
——————–
“I am grateful to all my guest bloggers for their reflections offered in love and sincerity. While the views expressed are the author’s own, I pray they encourage thoughtful dialogue and spiritual growth.” Patti
New Book by Patti Greene – Second Print on Amazon; Published 2025
ISBN-13 : 979-8284335017 (Paperback); To order, type in this ISBN in the search screen on Amazon .$18.99.
Unstoppable: Go the Distance with God.Available on Amazon. Perfect for individuals of ages 12-100+ who are interested in journeying with God: Includes stand-alone chapters on the Bible, Prayer, Christian Living, Leadership, and Crises. Perfect for special occasions, Christmas Gifts, Bible study groups, book studies, raffle gifts, and more.
Unstoppable by Patti Greene
Reviews:
“This book serves as a spiritual guide for individuals seeking to deepen their faith, overcome challenges, and lead a life that honors God.”
“If you are wondering about God, how to study the Bible, build relationships, and respond to specific circumstances, this is the book.”
“Thoroughly enjoyed this book! The author has found a unique way to teach biblical truths and theological principles in a way that speaks to all stages of one’s walk with Christ.”
Feel free to forward, share, or comment on this post.
If you receive this article through email, you can click on the title to read it on GreenePastures.org for the best formatting, photos, and more.
As a Bible reviewer for Thomas Nelson, I received the Alexander Maclaren Study Bible (New King James Version® – NKJV), and I am excited to share my honest thoughts with you.
********************
BLUE COVER – JUST RELEASED!
The Alexander Maclaren Study Bible
Beautiful Beginnings – First Impressions
As soon as I slid the Alexander Maclaren Study Bible out of its boxed sleeve, its beauty drew me in. It felt warm and welcoming—the kind of Bible that seems to say, “Pick me up.” While I don’t usually compare Bibles to furniture, this one reminds me of something comparable to the elegance of Ethan Allen furniture: elegant, eye-catching, and a little more expensive than most.
The Alexander Maclaren Study Bible – Cover
Beauty in the Basics – Basic Facts
Translation: New King James Version®
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (HarperCollins Christian Publishing)
ISBN: 978-1-4003-3595-4
Font: NKJV Comfort Print®
Typeset: Modeled after Scottish Roman type (1808–1813)
Extras: Blue satin ribbon and thumb indexing
Copyright: 2025
Elegant Exterior – Spine & Front Cover Decor
The sky blue “leathersoft” cover features graceful gold accents on the spine, front, and back. A script “M” for Maclaren appears on the spine, along with the Bible’s title and NKJV imprint. Both covers display a matching floral pattern that continues onto the page edges when closed. This edition feels especially fitting for women—a thoughtful gift for someone dear.
Treasures Within – Contents and Interior Design
The front pages offer a preface to the NKJV, a list of Bible books, abbreviations, and an introduction to Alexander Maclaren, known as “the Prince of Expositors.” In the back pages, you’ll find a bibliography, a four-page index of features (Christ connections, life applications, and outlines), seven maps, and a 388-page concordance. Yes, you heard me right – 388 pages! Wow.
The 388-page Concordance
Inside, the layout is both practical and beautiful. Blue boxes highlight Scripture with a cross symbol, while decorative frames hold life applications. “Triumphant Prayers” appear throughout. The two-column format includes reference verses between columns and footnotes at the bottom of select pages. The blue satin ribbon adds a graceful touch.
Radiant Purpose – What Makes This Bible Special
This Bible stands out for its look, feel, and thoughtful design. One feature I haven’t seen elsewhere is how it includes highlights of Christ in both the Old and New Testaments—a meaningful detail that deepens its impact.
The Alexander Maclaren’s Study Bible – Interior
Designed for Hearts – Who Is This Bible Written For
This Bible would bless a wide range of readers—from seekers, new believers, to seasoned followers. Its gentle tone and thoughtful features make it an excellent companion for anyone seeking deeper faith. But, due to the cover, I would say, especially for women! There are previously published works for men, as well.
Unique Beauty – What Sets This Bible Apart
This Bible makes me smile. It feels like it’s whispering, “Lift me up and read me.” I can visualize it on coffee tables and office desks, luring folks to pick it up to read it. The seven maps in the back are clear and easy to follow, especially Paul’s journey to Rome, which many Bibles leave out. The color coordination from cover to content is stunning. The concordance is thorough, and the biography of Alexander Maclaren adds depth. When I first opened it, I wondered, “Who exactly is Maclaren?” After reading about his life and ministry, I now want to explore his sermons. FYI, Maclaren was elected president of the Baptist Union in 1875 and “preached with a power that rivaled Charles Spurgeon.”
The Alexander Maclaren Study Bible
Graceful Adjustments – If I Could Tweak
If I could adjust a few things, I’d widen the margins to give note-takers more space. I’d also redesign the sleeve to reflect better the Bible’s beauty—right now, it doesn’t do it justice. In a bookstore, I might overlook it and miss out. Lastly, I’d shrink the cover design slightly to allow room for personal imprints, which isn’t possible with this design.
Lasting Impressions – Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a meaningful gift, this Bible is worth considering. It’s a study Bible, so it’s a bit heavier—but it’s full of treasures. I’ll definitely be using the concordance often. I absolutely love this Bible and wholeheartedly recommend it—for a friend or for yourself.
“The gospel is not speculation but fact. It is truth, because it is the record of a person who is the Truth.” ~ Alexander MacLaren
If you receive this article through email, you can click on the title to read it on GreenePastures.org for the best formatting, photos, and more.
As a Bible reviewer for Thomas Nelson, I received The Prayer Bible (New InternationalVersion-NIV), and I am excited to share my honest thoughts with you.
Reviewing The Prayer Bible
I always get excited when I receive a new Bible to review. I love flipping through the pages, wondering what treasures I’ll find inside. I always pray that each Bible I read will bless others and help them grow closer to God.
First Impressions
When I opened the blue-sleeved box and saw The Prayer Bible, I said aloud, “Oh, I love it!” The color and feel are wonderful. Mine has a brownish-burgundy two-tone cover with a soft vine design on the front. It feels gentle and a little feminine, but not too much. However, I looked it up and found out it also comes in a sleek Gray/Black cover in the NIV® version. It’s also light enough to carry easily. The title, The Prayer Bible, is printed in shiny silver on the front and spine. It’s beautiful.
The Prayer Bible – Cover and Sleeve
One of the first things I noticed was how this Bible includes short sections called “Praying the Scripture.” Each one has a Bible verse and a brief prayer idea. For example, in John 14, it says:
“As Jesus continued teaching during the Last Supper, he assured the 12 of his peace. He promised the heavenly home that he was about to prepare for them, confirming that he is the only way to it. Sensing their anxiety, he also promised a kind of peace that only he could provide.”
“When you are anxious, call on Jesus. Don’t just ask for peace—ask him for His peace.”
I love that! These little prayers are on most pages, and they often end with a question or something to think about. There’s also space in the margins for notes, which is excellent if you like to write while you read.
The Prayer Bible – Praying Scripture
Quick Facts:
• This Bible has 1,636 pages.
• It’s published by Thomas Nelson.
• It uses the NIV (New International Version).
• ISBN: 9781400345410; Library of Congress: 2024946600.
It includes extras like:
• A 365-day reading plan with checkboxes
• A list of prayers from the Bible
• A Guide to Scripture engagement vs. Bible study
• Tips for spiritual growth
• A table of weights and measures
• Abbreviations and formatting notes, and
• A section called “Why Read the Bible?”
Each book of the Bible also starts with a short introduction, which helps readers understand the big picture. That’s especially helpful for pastors, teachers, or anyone wanting to dig deeper.
Layout and Design
This Bible follows the usual order—from Genesis to Revelation. It doesn’t have pictures or lengthy explanations, which some people might prefer. It does have helpful, short footnotes and references on many pages. The text is printed in one column instead of two, which makes it feel fresh and easy to follow.
What I Loved
• The flexible leathersoft cover feels great in your hands.
• The “Praying the Scripture” sections help you connect with God while reading.
• The words of Jesus are printed in red, which makes them stand out.
The Prayer Bible – List of Prayers in the Bible
Things to Consider
Everyone looks for different things in a Bible. I always suggest seeing and holding a Bible before buying it. For me, the print size is okay now—thanks to cataract surgery—but it might be a little small for some readers.
Also, this is not a Study Bible. It lacks maps, charts, commentary notes, and a comprehensive topical index. Even a small index would be helpful.
Why I Recommend It
I recommend any Bible that shares the truth of Jesus Christ. I want everyone to read God’s Word and let the Holy Spirit speak to their hearts. The “Praying the Scripture” feature is a beautiful way to connect Bible verses with your personal prayers.
Who Should Read It?
This Bible is for everyone—believers, seekers, and even those who aren’t sure what they believe. Whether you’re a student, teacher, politician, someone facing illness, or someone feeling anxious, the Bible has something for you. God’s Word is for all people.
Final Thoughts
I liked the pages that explain the difference between Scripture engagement and Bible study. I wish this explanation were at the front of the Bible instead of the back, though. And I absolutely LOVE the list of prayers—it makes it easy to find what you need.
If you receive this Bible—whether as a gift or something you buy—my advice is simple: pray for the Holy Spirit to guide you as you read it. God will meet you right where you are.
If you are receiving this blog through an email, by clicking on the title of the post, you will see the best version.
————————
We all have moments when questions are deep within us—moments when our faith feels weak, prayers feel unanswered, and our future feels uncertain. I know I have. But in those moments, God’s Word speaks. The Bible reminds us that we’re not alone and that the Lord is always working, and He loves us.
Let’s walk through five questions many of us have asked—and let the Bible answer them. Then, consider spending a devotional time over the next five days, using these thoughts and Bible verses as you talk to God.
1. Have you ever wondered how to truly grow your faith?
Faith doesn’t grow by accident—it grows through time spent in God’s Word.
“So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ.” Romans 10:17 (NASB)
Let your heart be fed by His truth. Open your Bible, go to church, listen to biblical sermons, and let faith rise within your spirit.
2. Have you ever felt like your prayers weren’t making a difference?
Even when God is silent, your prayers are heard.
“The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.” James 5:16 (NASB)
God hears us. Keep praying. Our words are not wasted—they are breakthroughs.
3. Have you ever thought about the legacy you will leave behind?
Legacy is built in the daily choice to speak of God’s goodness and His love for us.
“We will not conceal them from their children, but tell to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, and His strength and His wondrous works that He has done.” Psalm 78:4 (NASB)
Tell your story. Share His faithfulness. Your legacy begins now.
4. Have you ever felt unqualified for what God wants you to do?
God doesn’t wait for perfection—He calls all of us with purpose and grace.
“He has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity.” 2 Timothy 1:9 (NASB)
Jesus doesn’t save us because of what we’ve done, but because of who Christ is.
5. Have you ever stepped out in faith despite fear?
Faith isn’t the absence of fear—it’s trusting in God. Do not fear, for I am with you; do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, surely I will help you, surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10
One of the prayers I pray often is “Help Me.” I need to remember that he has already said He will. How about you?
If you receive this article through email, you can click on the title to read it on GreenePastures.org for the best formatting, photos, and more.
As a Thomas Nelson Bible Reviewer, I received the NKJV: Personal Size Giant Print, Brown Leathersoft, Holy Bible, Red Letter, Comfort Print: New King James Version
ISBN: 9781400346325
First Impressions & External Appearance
From the moment I removed the NKJV Personal Size Giant Print Bible (Red Letter Edition) from its case, I knew I loved it. The Leathersoft cover is rich brown and has a pleasant feel, with a compact and substantial size. The design is exquisite, with elegant gold and brown imprints, gold page gilding, and a coordinating ribbon marker that adds a refined touch.
The spine décor is especially striking, and the overall aesthetic is gender-neutral, making it a perfect choice for both men and women. I’m already looking forward to having my name engraved in gold to match the “Holy Bible” inscription on the front. This Bible is simple, attractive, and easy to hold—just the Word of God, beautifully presented.
Interior Design & Features
Opening the Bible reveals a stunning presentation page, followed by internal front and back covers adorned with a wallpaper-like design reminiscent of elegant home décor. The contents page clearly lists each book of the Old and New Testaments, and the included preface offers a helpful explanation of the New King James Version—its origins, translation philosophy, and textual sources (Hebrew for the Old Testament and Greek for the New).
The two-column layout features the Thomas Nelson NKJV typeface in a large, readable font, especially appreciated by readers around my age (70+). The red-letter text for the words of Christ is a welcome feature, and the chapter headings in all caps make navigation easy.
While this Bible doesn’t include extensive study notes or commentary, it does offer occasional footnotes that provide helpful cross-references, word meanings, or textual clarifications (e.g., Masoretic vs. Septuagint sources). I personally use a study Bible for in-depth research, but I’m thrilled to have a Bible that is primarily just the Word of God, perfect for devotional reading without distractions.
What I Love Most
– Simplicity: This Bible allows me to focus on Scripture without being pulled into study notes or references.
– Readability: The giant print is a blessing for aging eyes.
– Design: From the cover to the interior, it’s thoughtfully and beautifully crafted.
– Red Letter Edition: Always a favorite feature of mine.
– Maps: The inclusion of 8 standard maps at the back is a nice touch.
Suggestions for Improvement
The only feature I truly miss is the inclusion of a few blank pages at the back for personal notes, reflections, or to write down the names of people I meet so I don’t forget their names. As someone who enjoys journaling thoughts during devotional time, this would be a valuable addition.
Final Thoughts
This Bible is a treasure. It’s ideal for anyone seeking a beautifully designed, easy-to-read edition of the NKJV that focuses solely on Scripture. Whether for personal use or as a gift, it’s a wonderful choice for those who want to engage with God’s Word in a quiet, focused way.
Feel free to share this review with others.
If you like articles like this, please subscribe to my blog at GreenePastures.org, which states, “Subscribe to blog via email.” You will then be asked to confirm your subscription through an email request.
Bible Verse
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17 NKJV).
The Open Bible by Thomas Nelson, division of Harper Collins Christian Publishing, Inc.
ISBN: 9781400344031
WOW, WHAT A WEALTH OF INFORMATION!
First Impressions—Please don’t judge this book by its cover!
Upon taking this Bible from its attractive box, I thought, “What a drab and boring black cover, even though the writing and spine had a lovely gold imprint.” However, that is because I am a woman and like colors! Actually, most men would love the black flexible cover. This Bible measures 9.5” x 6.5,” measuring the cover, and weighs approximately three pounds. On the back cover, there are some numbers; one is the ISBN and the other I didn’t know what it was, but both imprints were hard to read. It is just unfortunate that I received that one.
The Open Bible
Aesthetic Appeal
The Bible is flat when opened, features a beautiful red ribbon placeholder, and highlights gold-imprint page sleeves.
Structure of The Open Bible
Wow! Here is where this Bible becomes EXCEPTIONAL. Thomas Nelson wanted its readers to understand Scripture and specific aspects of Scripture. The publishing company is serious about sharing how to use the Bible as a beginning Bible student and a deep and seasoned believer. With so much preliminary information, the actual Bible from Genesis to Revelation does not start right from the beginning. Below is information that is included in each section of the Bible in alphabetical order.
Features of The Open Bible
Before the Scripture
A Guide to New Life,
A Bible Review
A visual survey of the Bible includes charts and maps about multiple points of interest, such as the history of Israel, the prophetic books, the history of the early church, and the themes of the New Testament letters.
How to study the Bible,
Introductions,
New Life in Christ,
Study Features,
Topical index, which is one-fifth” thick, per my measurement.
Word studies, and more.
The Scripture Text
Definition blocks explaining words, such as yoke, tithe, redemption, Paradise,
Keys and surveys on each book of the Bible,
Outline of each book of the Bible,
Overview of each book of the Bible,
Red lettering of Jesus’ words,
Side blocks of information, i.e., Knowing the will of God, Christ’s righteousness, Reconciliation between enemies, The role of parents, The person of the Holy Spirit,
Thumb indexing for books of the Bible and more.
After the Scripture Text
60 Days through the story of Scripture,
Concordance,
Facts about the Bible
History of the Twelve Apostles,
Prophecies of the Messiah fulfilled in Jesus Christ,
Read your Bible through in a year,
Table of monies, weights, and measures,
The Jewish Calendar,
The Jewish Feasts,
The Parables of Jesus Christ,
The teachings and illustrations of Jesus Christ, and more.
Additional Information
This Bible even explains how to have a personal devotional time and a systematic Bible study through word studies, verse studies, paragraph studies, chapter studies, book studies, topical studies, and biographical studies. It explains the principles of Bible interpretation and gives a doctrinal overview of the Bible.
The Open Bible publishers were serious about teaching readers how to use this Bible by providing valuable information.
On an internal note, the Bible includes an attractive presentation page and uses two columns throughout its 1,750 pages, not including the introductory pages. Its font size is 9 pt. NKJV Comfort Print.
The Open Bible Text
Drawbacks
Although the cover may not appeal to everyone and is heavy, it is definitely worth its weight in value.
Who Would Benefit Most from The Open Bible?
While the Bible text in the New King James Version is an excellent choice for all readers, The Open Bible 2025 is particularly well-suited for Bible teachers, seminarians, pastors, and anyone deeply involved in ministry. Its wealth of resources and in-depth study materials make it an invaluable tool for those seeking a deeper understanding of the Bible.
What Distinguishes this Bible from Others?
What truly sets The Open Bible 2025 apart from other study Bibles is its wealth of material. For instance, it offers a comprehensive topical index, a concordance, and a host of additional introductory and concluding material that most Bibles lack. This abundance of resources makes it a standout choice for deep Bible study.
My Plan
I plan to read and familiarize myself with all the information in The Open Bible and recommend it to my serious Bible-lover friends. I also can’t wait to use some of the material in the current Bible study I teach.
I also recommend this Bible as a thoughtful gift for those who are into deep Bible study, such as on Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Easter, birthdays, and other occasions.
5+-stars
Feel free to share this review with others.
If you like articles like this, please subscribe to my blog on the right-hand side of this article, where it states, “SUBSCRIBE TO BLOG VIA EMAIL.” You will then be asked to confirm your subscription through an email request.
Bible Verse
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17 NKJV).
I hesitated for a few weeks about posting an article I wrote for The Baptist Standard on my blog, mainly because I didn’t want to draw attention to myself. However, today in my quiet time, the Lord impressed me to post it because it might just be what someone needs to read. My prayer is that it will touch someone’s heart today. God bless you.
After many years of working outside the home, I “retired.” With time to serve God more fully, I appealed to my heavenly Father and cried: “Lord, how can you use me? I don’t play the piano, and I don’t like hanging out at the gym.”
God said: “Patti, I have been preparing you all these years. I allowed you to grow up in a family that loved books. I surrounded you with books all the time. You have created your own library of prayer journals during 40-plus years. Now is the time to write a book and share with others what I have let you experience. This is your destiny.”
So, I penned my first prayer journal, and a new call in my life evolved, that of writing.
People all over the world ask the question, “Lord, how can you use me?”
Once we genuinely believe Jesus is the way, the truth and the life, we can ask God confidently what his will for our lives might be. Through our obedience in doing the small things, he will show us more ways we can serve him.
Four things help us find God’s call in our lives: (1) preparation, (2) practice, (3) prayer and (4) Bible reading.
Preparation
I wanted to prepare myself for ministry. I needed God to direct my path and mold me to be used for his purpose. A series of books on spiritual maturity helped establish the foundation of my Christian beliefs. I also deepened my obedience to whatever God had in store.
All the while, I wondered how God could use someone like me—someone who failed my first English essay in college, was terrified of being called on in Bible study classes and was still learning sin had consequences. But God cared for me and was preparing me to be used for his glory, and I knew it.
The foundations of my faith grew through Christian books and my first two churches in the Baptist faith. God led me to University Baptist Church in Fort Worth, where I was baptized, and First Baptist Church in Houston, where my faith deepened beyond measure.
To know where God wants to use you, experiment in different gift areas, listen to what others think you do well, take a spiritual gifts inventory survey, read books that address the topic, and pray for God to show you where you fit in the body of Christ. Then practice what you have learned.
Everyone has at least one spiritual gift. Romans 12:6-8 gives us a partial list of spiritual gifts—prophecy (explaining Scripture), service, teaching, encouraging, giving, leading and mercy. You might consider these.
I read the Bible continually during my time of discernment, wanting to know more about God and how he could use me. I began to serve in little ways, such as writing notes, putting short Bible studies together and organizing biblical materials.
Reading materials written by solid Bible-believing authors opened the door to a deeper dependence on the Holy Spirit through prayer. The Bible and these books confirmed God loved me, and in his infinite wisdom, he had a spiritual plan for my life. God does for you, as well.
Prayer
While I have read many books on prayer, it differs from carving out time daily to give praise and worship to our heavenly Father. God loves us as no one else can. He wants us to pay attention to him. Prayer gives a person time to think, meditate, confess sins and share burdens.
Sometimes we limit our call, believing only pastors and those in ministry can be used by God, but God wants everyone to seek his kingdom and to engage intimately in prayer with him.
Bible reading
The primary way God speaks to us occurs by reading the Bible. Through God’s word, we recognize what is right and wrong, what is honorable and what is not, and what he wants us to do or not do.
A new life of salvation, hope and trust opens for us when we continually read the word of God. God desires to show us his will and direction, and we can find that in his holy word.
We are on a journey, and God has a purpose for us. Don’t allow fear, laziness or perfectionism to stop you from seeking God’s will.
While my passion for reading is what God uses to show me how he can use me, it may be different for you. God has given us all diverse backgrounds, passions, personalities, talents and quirks. Look at your experiences, hone your skills, prepare yourself, practice ministry, pray and read God’s word. Don’t expect to be good at everything at once. Wait for God’s timing.
When God revealed to me it was time to write a book, it occurred in my messy bedroom closet. Not only did he show me what to do, but he also confirmed it by prompting me to look at the top shelf to see my prayer journals.
That’s when he said: “Now is the time to write a book and share with others what I have let you experience. This is your destiny.”
What is your God-given destiny?
Patti Greene is a graduate of Baylor University and Dallas Baptist University, a member of Second Baptist Church in Houston, and the author of seven books. The views expressed are those of the author.
Tweet This
