How to Develop a Good Prayer Journal
In his book ″How to Keep a Spiritual Journal,″ Ron Klug says, ″I have tried various forms of spiritual discipline, and one that has worked especially well for me is journal keeping.″ He relates the time he takes to write in his journal as akin to sabbath time, a time of rest and solitude. Like Klug, you can take time to be with God and record your insights, your prayers and your praise. Your prayer journal can become the story of your spiritual journey and your record of an ongoing conversation with God.
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Instructions
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Chronicling Your Journey
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Write a clear statement of purpose for your prayer journal. Think of this statement as your plan to set out on your spiritual journey. Include in your statement your hopes for your journey and your intention to develop the habit of writing each day.
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Read the Bible daily, and write in your journal after reading. Contemplate what you've read and write your impressions. Begin your close conversation with God by focusing on your feelings about what you read.
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Record any questions arising from your reading. Make note of your observations of the biblical text . Pay particular attention to passages that relate to your life. Ask yourself what revelation you can find in a difficult passage.
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Learn how to turn your questions into prayer as you progress on your spiritual journey. Remember that prayer is not only asking for something, it is praise as well. Consider what gifts you find each day in your reading and offer God thanks for them.
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Find images that speak to you and place them in your journal. Sketch them if you like or clip them from magazines or from online sources. Use photographs when you pray for a particular person in order to focus on the person and the need.
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Review your prayer journal often to experience more deeply the conversation you've begun with God. Notice the ″give and take″ that occurs, as in a verbal conversation. See where you've asked questions and received answers as your spiritual journey continues.
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Tips & Warnings
Use a journal or notebook that appeals to you. If you don't like it, you'll be less likely to write in it.
