The act of keeping a journal is more popular than ever. From guided journals to blank journals, there are so many choices available for you to put pen (or pencil) to paper and document your thoughts and feelings.
For us believers, the options for keeping a journal are also expansive, ranging from guided prayer journals to Bible journaling. For some of us, though, the best type of journal is an unguided, blank lined journal—one that gives us the flexibility to write what we want and how we want.
While the blank lined page can be freeing, it can also be intimidating for some people. With that in mind, here are five ways to use your blank lined journal as a Christian:
1. For Prayer and Writing to GodWriting out our prayers to God can come in many forms. You can write a list of things, situations, and people you’re praying for or struggling with. You can also ask God question and reveal answers to you when you don’t understand His plans for you or someone you love.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
~ Philippians 4:6
2. For Gratitude and Giving Thanks to God
Giving thanks to God in writing is a wonderful habit to practice daily—even if it’s just one small thing. Thank Him for answered prayer and for the patience to wait when prayers are unanswered. Thank God for the big and little ways He has blessed you. Thank Him for the moments you feel His presence. There is so much to be Thanking God for all that He is and for all that He has done for you brings an unsurpassed level of joy and peace.
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
~1 Thessalonians 5:18
3. For Sermon Note Taking
Using a blank journal to take notes during church service every Sunday gives you a record of what’s been preached. You can look back and refer to the notes for learning and reflection, and to write your reactions, thoughts, and prayers as you are inspired by the subject and scriptures preached on.
So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.
~Romans 10:17
4. For Bible Study Assignments
Not all Bible study classes come with workbooks or study guides. Many Bible study lessons are taught straight from the Bible itself. In cases like this, a blank-lined journal is perfect for completing assignments and organizing notes.
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
~Psalm 119:105
5. For Collecting and Memorizing Favorite Scriptures
Another great way for a Christian to use a blank journal is to write down scriptures that touch the heart and open the mind to the promises of God. Those scriptures that give us pause are very meaningful; and keeping them close in your journal not only inspires, but writing them multiple times aids in memorization.
And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart.
~ Deuteronomy 6:6
As you can see these five ways to use a blank journal as a Christian are only the beginning. Journaling is as unique as the believer keeping it. Your journal is whatever you make it, so go all out and make it your own.
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Grace and Faith Press offers blank lined journals, featuring beautiful Christian worship and scripture art on the covers and perforated pages on the inside. Available in two sizes, they’re a Christian journal collector’s dream! See our Journal Collection here!
