1 Calhoun, A. (2015, Nov. 19). Spiritual Disciplines Handbook: Practices That Transform Us. IVP.
Approved and verified accurate by the local outreach coordinator of the Office of Spiritual Life on Oct. 22, 2024.
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Throughout life, we all have experiences that form us and shape us into who we are. However, it’s not necessarily the experiences themselves that transform us but rather the reflection of those experiences. Journaling is a way to look back on moments to notice, learn and attest to the state of our souls. If you desire to become increasingly aware of his presence through writing and reflection, consider journaling to God. This practice is a tool for reflecting on God’s presence, guidance and great care in your daily comings and goings.
It’s incredible how the simple act of writing has the power to deepen your relationship with God. Author Adele Calhoun suggests it can be helpful to divide your journal into sections that reflect:1
Spiritual practices exist to transform you from the inside out and better exude Christ-like love. They offer new ways to connect with God and walk a vibrant life with him. The practice of keeping a journal may produce the following God-given fruit:
Through journaling, you open the door to a more intimate relationship with God, allowing his love to flow through you and impact both your life and the lives of those around you.
The beauty of journaling is that there are no rules! The pages of your journal are meant to be a sacred space for your own personal time with the Lord. Write the way you speak, try not to overcomplicate it and tap into your creative ideas. Here are some ideas for getting started:
While journals can be created for a season or time of transition, a regular habit of journaling greatly allows for spiritual transformation. By keeping a consistent record of God’s presence in your life, you may notice him more and more in your day to day. Write when he speaks to you or when you see him move in big and small ways.
Collecting drawings, handwritten notes, poems, quotes or other ephemera can be an artistic form of journaling. Perhaps you go on a walk and find a leaf that reminds you of the intricacies and details of your creator. Rather than quickly continuing with your walk, pick up the leaf and save it in your journal as a future reminder of the Lord’s design.
Keeping a journal of your gratitude is an effective way to worship the Lord and grow in appreciation of all he has given to you. Consider writing a few things you’re grateful for when you wake up or before you go to bed, such as getting a new job, community, answered prayer or simply the breath in your lungs.
Many of us commune with the Lord through prayer, but it is more rare that we do so through journaling. While it is beautiful and convenient to simply speak with God in the car, on your walk to class or at other little moments throughout your day, writing down your prayers can be extremely powerful. You may find it easier to articulate your thoughts to God or extend your time with him. Not only will it serve you and your relationship with God in the present moment, but it is a tangible way to look back on your conversations in the future and see the ways he answered your prayers.
Not only can we journal about our own lives and our relationship with God, but we can also journal for someone else! Create a journal for a friend, family member or someone you know. Write letters to them and record your prayers for them. You can express your gratitude for who they are to you and offer encouragement to an area of their life.
Find a rhythm and a form of journaling to God that works for you. Remember, this is a way to merely commune with God, not become a more eloquent writer. Be honest before him with your thoughts, requests and frustrations. Begin writing to the Lord and become more in awe of the story he is writing for you. If you want to learn more about journaling or other spiritual practices for connecting with God, consider adding a Spiritual Formation and Discipleship minor to your degree or attending Grand Canyon University's Spiritual Formation workshops. Fill out the form on this page to learn more.
