Let’s take a journey back to school days. I remember being told at the start of each year to keep a journal. Every week, our teacher would give us a new prompt, such as what we did over summer vacation, things about our family, family traditions, Holiday memories, favorite meals, and more.
Honestly, I didn’t enjoy it at all. I didn’t like writing in school, and wasn’t much of a reader either, though I loved to learn. Isn’t it funny how life comes full circle? Now here I am, years later, writing a blog and encouraging others to journal.
After graduation, journaling was completely out of my life. I would hear people talk about it, but I never felt drawn to write down my thoughts or experiences. It wasn’t until I began my healing journey that the idea of journaling kept coming up. Still, I didn’t start until the end of 2023.
What finally changed my mind? Listening to different Christian speakers share how journaling can strengthen faith, help process emotions, and remind us of God’s goodness. Finally, I decided to give it a try, and I’m so glad I did.
Why Journal?
The Bible reminds us of the importance of remembering God’s works:
“Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it.” – Habakkuk 2:2
“I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.” – Psalm 77:11
In Psalms, we see pages from David’s journal. Those pages are his journal entries where he wrote his prayers, feelings, gratitude, praise, and cried out to God for help. Look how God is using those journal entries 3000 years later.
Our journals become a testimony we can look back on when life gets hard, reminding us of how far we’ve come and how much God has carried us through. It’s not just about writing, it’s also about listening. A way of laying your heart before God, capturing your prayers, and watching how He moves in your life.
What Journaling Has Shown Me
Over the past month, I’ve been reading through my journal, and the joy it has brought me is priceless. I’ve seen prayers answered that I didn’t even remember praying. I’ve been able to trace the ways God has worked in my life, even in seasons when I felt stuck or broken. I have also learned things about my prayer life and possible changes I need to make.
Looking at those pages has filled me with hope, excitement, and gratitude.
“I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds.” – Psalm 77:11-12 NIV
Journaling is a powerful tool in spiritual growth. It has helped to shift my focus back to Jesus, given me joy in the small things, and helped me see how much I’ve changed for the better, as well as areas I still need to work on. Honestly, my only regret is not starting sooner. Journaling has captured answered prayers, blessings, and moments of growth I might have otherwise forgotten.
Why You Should Start Journaling
Do you ever feel your thoughts are all over the place? Are you longing to hear God’s voice more clearly, but don’t know where to start? Journaling can be a powerful tool; it helps us to slow down, reflect, and turn our thoughts to God. I want to encourage you today to start! There is no wrong or right way. Grab some paper and a pen, and let the words flow. Journaling is not only great therapy for your mind and heart, but it’s also a beautiful way to grow spiritually.
When you feel stuck or discouraged, reading through your journal can remind you of what God has already done in your life. It’s a way to practice gratitude, see how far you have come, and keep your eyes fixed on him.
Bible Verses to Inspire You
“Let this be written for a future generation, that a people not yet created may praise the Lord” Psalm 102:18
“Then the Lord said to Moses, write this on a scroll as something to be remembered…” Exodus 17:14
“This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: Write on a scroll all the words that I have spoken to you, for look, the days are coming” Jeremiah 30:2
What To Journal About
If you’re not sure where to begin, here are some ideas to help you start journaling:
- Daily Gratitude: Write down 3 things you’re thankful for each day.
- Prayers: Write prayers for your life, family, finances, and any other areas you feel the need to pray for.
- Scripture Reflections: Write down a verse that stood out to you today. What is God teaching you through it?
- Your Emotions: Be honest about what you’re feeling; whether joy, sadness, fear, or hope.
- God’s Blessings: Record moments where you see his hand at work.
- Personal Growth: Write about lessons learned, struggles overcome, and changes you notice in yourself.
- Future Hopes & Dreams: Surrender your plans to God and write down what you’re believing Him for.
Let’s Do It!
Journaling isn’t about having perfect words; it’s about opening your heart to God, creating a testimony of your walk with Him. It’s a way to capture both the struggles and the victories and to remember that his grace carries us through it all.
So grab your notebook and start today. Write what’s on your heart, and watch how God meets you there. You’ll be amazed at how journaling can bring healing, clarity, and deeper intimacy with Jesus.
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