For most of my life, I have despised journaling. This may not be the best statement to make when writing an article to encourage you to consider the practice of prayer journaling. For me, there’s something so final and real about staring at your thoughts, vulnerabilities, and often unanswered requests on paper. However, I’ve learned to appreciate it and see its benefits. In this season of my life, it’s proven to be one of the most beneficial, healing, and revealing spiritual disciplines.
Since I adopted the practice of using a prayer journal, I’ve encountered God and myself more intimately. I’ve learned so much about myself, my thought processes, and how I perceive things. I’ve also learned a great deal about the character and nature of God, and how my life experiences and perspectives have shaped my understanding of Him. Additionally, prayer journaling has allowed me to look back on what I’ve experienced and see God’s goodness and faithfulness. It’s also presented an opportunity to document the miracles that God has performed in my life.
What is Prayer Journaling?
Prayer journaling is the practice of keeping a record of one’s prayers, thoughts, requests, praises, and reflections while communicating with God. Essentially, a prayer journal is a written log of your conversations with the Lord. It allows you to track your prayers, revisit past requests, and reflect on answered prayers.
How Do You Create a Prayer Journal?
The first step is figuring out what typically works best for you. There are numerous resources available. I encourage you to explore the method of prayer journaling that works best for you.
There are journals available that have daily prompts for you to respond to. Some of these journals are specific to stations of life like singleness, motherhood, marriage, or for those with careers. Other prayer journals are designed to help you navigate through areas where you are experiencing challenges or wish to strengthen your faith. Either way, prayer journals like these offer a structured approach to writing, addressing, and processing our communication with God.
A simple journal or notebook can also be a great way to record your prayers. You can write down your requests, express gratitude for answered prayers, and explore thoughts and feelings that are sometimes hard to verbalize.
The beauty is that there’s no wrong way to prayer journal.
Whatever method you choose, I would encourage you to adopt the practice of prayer journaling. It will transform your life!
“Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man” (Proverbs 3:3-4).
