Want to get it “write” in your Christian journey? Try Christian journaling.
A Christian journal can regularly record your thoughts, Bible readings, ideas, prayers, reflections, experiences, and new understandings.
Why Journaling Can Work
The practice of journaling – of writing – can help slow you down. It allows you to sit down with a cup of coffee and create time for you to ponder and make connections.
Writing with a pen activates the human brain. According to an article at Forbes.com, handwriting increases neural activity in certain sections of the brain which can help us think and learn.
Some Starting Tips On Christian Journaling
TOOLS: You can choose an inexpensive journal or you can go to your local bookstore and choose a journal that reflects your unique personality and style. Make sure you have the tools that will help you organize your thoughts (ie. different colored pens, highlighters, scissors, and tape for clipping and affixing photos).
TIMING: Decide how often you want to journal. Some find daily journaling best, while others find three to five times per week easier. Also, decide a time of day that works best for you. Would you prefer early morning (a great way to prepare for the day) or evening (a perfect time to reflect on the day’s events)?
DATES & TITLES: Make sure to put a date (month, day, and year) and title at the top of each journal entry. One of the pleasures of journaling is reading your journal as time passes. You’ll remember past joys, learnings, and blessings. A date at the top of each entry helps put your writings in context with what was happening in your life.
Ideas And Themes For Christian Journaling
So, hopefully you’re starting to feel like you want to give Christian journaling a try. Here are just a few ideas on what you can journal …
Bible Readings: Journal about the scripture you’re reading that day. Write the Bible verse several times to help memorize it. Now write. Don’t censor yourself. How does your Bible reading relate to your life or the people you care about? If you’re doing Bible study, write down new understandings.
Prayer Life: Write about the healings and people that you’re praying for. Write about how God has been answering your prayers. When you need a boost of faith, re-reading these entries can become a source of strength.
Blessings And Gratitude: Feeling blessed? Journal about it. What a beautiful way to turn your journaling into worship!
Journaling can be a fun, satisfying way to grow as a Christian. It can help you create time to think and reflect on your evolving Christian life. There’s no wrong way to journal. If it’s helping you with your walk with Christ, you’re doing it right!
Journaling can be a fun, satisfying way to grow as a Christian. It can help you create time to think and reflect on your evolving Christian life. There’s no wrong way to journal. If it’s helping you with your walk with Christ, you’re doing it right!
