Giving a Bible or a Christian book: a gift that can matter
A book given as a gift is one that stays. It may sit on a shelf for fifteen years before being opened, and then change a life. This monthly quest invites you to give a Bible or a Christian book to someone, with delicacy and discernment.
What it looks like in your day
The most important thing is not the book, it is the choice and the way of giving it. Here is one way to go about it:
- Think of the person. Who are they? What are they looking for? What touches them? A book should answer a thirst.
- Choose the right book. A few ideas:
- A single Gospel (Mark or Luke, in a simple version): light, accessible, ideal for someone who doesn't know the Bible. - A Bible in a modern translation, for someone who is beginning or who wants to read the whole. - A testimony or reflection book on a theme that touches the person: grief, the meaning of life, doubt, family. - A book for a new believer: a first-reading guide, a small collection of psalms.
- Add a personal note, handwritten on the first page: "For you, with all my friendship. I thought of you when choosing it."
- Give it without pressure. "No obligation to read it, it's just a gift."
- Offer to talk about it later, if they feel like it.
If you have a small budget, a Gospel costs almost nothing and can have just as much effect. If you are in a hurry, buy it online. If you are shy, give it at a moment that lends itself: birthday, Christmas, a thank-you. If the person is not a believer, favor a simple, human book, without jargon.
What the Bible says
Paul reminds Timothy of the importance of having known the Scriptures from early on:
“And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 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 perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.”
The "holy scriptures" are "able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus." Giving a biblical text means giving the means to know Jesus. Peter compares the word to milk:
“As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:”
"The sincere milk of the word": food suited to someone who is beginning. It is therefore useful to choose a book suited to their level. And the story of the Ethiopian reading Isaiah (Acts 8:30-31) reminds us that a book alone can remain misunderstood: sometimes someone is needed to guide. Your gift can be the beginning of a conversation.
Pitfalls to avoid
Giving without thinking. A book that is too long, too theological, or doesn't suit the person risks staying closed. Choose with care.
Imposing. A gift is not an obligation to read. Don't ask, three days later, "So, have you read it?" The person will go at their own pace.
Giving in public. Some would be embarrassed to receive a Bible in front of others. Do it in private.
Misjudging the message. A book can be perceived as a judgment ("you need this"). Make clear it is a gift of friendship.
Forgetting prayer. Pray for the person and for the book: that God would place it at the right moment in their life.
This month, think of someone. Choose a book that suits them, and add a note in your own hand.