Are you in the market to purchase a new Bible, but not sure which one is right for you? With hundreds of Bibles to choose from, the decision may seem overwhelming. Here are a few ideas to consider from today's top Bible picks.

1. The Life Application Study Bible

 The Life Application Study Bible is one of the best study Bibles to help you understand God's Word as you read, and teach you how to apply its truth to your daily life - your job, family, friendships, problems and questions. The study notes are right at the bottom of each page, so you don't have to search for them. The Life Application Study Bible comes in several popular translations, including NIV, NLT, NASB, KJV.

2. The Thompson Chain-Reference Bible

 The Thompson Chain-Reference Bible has a unique reference system that allows you to follow any subject, person, place or idea, from the beginning of your Bible to the end. I believe it is one of the best topical study tools ever put together. It's especially handy for teachers who need to prepare their own Bible study lessons. Durability and hand craftsmanship make it perfect for those who really use their Bible.

3. The Audio Bible Dramatized CD

 Do you struggle with reading? Do you spend a great deal of time in your car? The Audio Bible Dramatized CD might be the perfect Bible for you. This fully dramatized, highly professional version allows you to experience God's Word as though you have entered into the text. It features the complete Bible on a 64 CD set with fully orchestrated background and sound effects.

4. The Message Bible

 Looking for a Bible to bring the Word of God alive and relevant to your life in today's modern world? The Message is a contemporary rendering of the Bible in everyday language. It is one of the most reader-friendly Bibles available. There's no doubt that Eugene Peterson, when he paraphrased The Message, did it with the goal of speaking to modern minds and reaching the human heart.

5. The Hebrew-Greek Key Word Study Bible

 The Hebrew-Greek Key Word Study Bible is a great Bible for students of Bible school or seminary. Most of us don't have time to learn another language while in Bible school. This Bible will help you unlock the extensive vocabulary and elaborate structure of the original Hebrew and Greek languages. Features include Strong's Concordance numbers, exegetical notes, lexical aids and much more.

6. The Amplified Bible

 The Amplified Bible is another great Bible for those wanting to understand the meaning of Scripture in the original Greek and Hebrew language. No need to study or dig for those rich nuances found in the original biblical languages - this Bible does it for you. With a unique system of brackets, parentheses and italics, the Amplified Bible expands key words and defines phrases as you read. Verse by verse, the full meaning of God's Word is plainly revealed.

7. The Starting Point Study Bible

 The Starting Point Study Bible is an excellent Bible for new believers or believers who recently rededicated their lives to Christ and need to make a fresh start. This Bible will help you begin (or start over) on your journey with Christ by teaching you how to build the proper foundation of faith. It will also help you apply biblical truth to your daily life.

8. The GoBible

 The GoBible is a portable audio-only device containing the full Bible text. It's similar to an MP3 player, except there's no downloading of files or software and no PC interaction. It comes preloaded with either the KJV, the NKJV or the NIV. I am impressed with some of the GoBible's unique capabilities. It is the only audio Bible I've seen that is indexed and searchable by book, chapter and verse! To learn more visit their Web site.

9. The Comparative Study Bible

 Do you like to compare text from different versions of the Bible? The Comparative Study Bible brings together four major translations - the New International Version, the New American Standard Bible, The Amplified Bible and the King James Version. The double column, two-page spread allows you to easily read and compare the text in all four versions.

10. The Faith in Action Study Bible

 The Faith in Action Study Bible is designed to help you live God's Word in a changing world. This Bible features an innovative note system that's divided into the two commentaries: "There and Then" and "Here and Now." "There and Then" provides background information and gives further explanation of the meaning of the text. "Here and Now" explores how the passage may be applied today. It's a great Bible for group studies as it invites and encourages discussion using open-ended questions.

Michael Carter, Realtor Greenville, SC www.beachboyrealestate.com