How To Journal: Life Journaling Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I do Daily Devotions?

Each of us wants purpose and direction for our lives. We often go to great lengths to find it, sometimes feeling like we live a life of trial and error. Sometimes we come to a crossroads and need guidance in choosing the best path. One of the great benefits of spending time listening to God and meeting Him in His Word is that He is more than willing to provide this for us. Spending daily time with God is like food for our souls. Think of what you would look and feel like physically if you only ate one meal per week! Sadly, for more than 80% of Christians in North America, this is the case spiritually. They only meet God once per week – at church on a Sunday. But a consistent and sustained program of self-feeding can do incredible things for your spiritual life!

But why should I journal? (p.s. - I’m not a writer)

Journaling is simply an application tool for your time with God. It’s an excellent way to both record and process what God has spoken to us. It’s also a useful tool to use at a later time, to reflect and review some of the ‘gems’ that you have received. Without writing them down, you may forget those blessings and some very important life lessons! Whether you use a journal on your own, with a friend or spouse, or with your small group, when you write things down that God shows you, you can experience the joy of sharing these discoveries with others.

What if I don’t have time?

My response to this question is fairly consistent… we will always have time for things that we see as important and enjoyable. Investing 4-40 minutes of time to hear from God for your day is something that you won’t regret. Not today. Not for eternity. I Timothy 4:8 says it this way: "Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.”

But some parts of the Bible are difficult to understand…

You’re not alone in this one, friend! Peter (Jesus’ disciple who wrote some of the Bible himself) says in 1 Peter 3:15-16: “Our dear brother Paul also wrote you with the wisdom that God gave him. He writes the same way in all his letters, speaking in them of these matters. His letters contain some things that are hard to understand…”

I love that. If even Peter had a tough time, we certainly don’t need to be wound up about not comprehending everything. The challenge is to be faithful with what God reveals to you and to press on and over time as you mature and as God shows you more of His character and heart.  

But what if I miss a day or two?

Don’t be discouraged! When you get back to your schedule, begin with the present day’s reading. Don’t go back to where you left off and attempt to motor your way through. Refuse condemnation. Reject discouragement and guilt. We’re all growing and developing godly habits. Don’t induce remorse or a sense of failure into your discipline.    

How do I get started?

Step 1 – Find the Bible reading corresponding to today’s date (reprinted below). Before you begin reading, ask the Holy Spirit to teach you and reveal Jesus to you.

Step 2 – As you are reading, underline anything that Lord impressed on you as a personal word to be applied. When you read with an open heart, the Lord will give you words of encouragement, direction, and correction. Don’t always expect lightening bolts or amazing insights! On most days, faithfulness and discipline are what is required.

Step 3 – When God has revealed a special lesson of life to you, record and process it using the following acrostic SOAP (or, if you are accustomed to another strategy, use that one instead).

S is for Scripture
Open your Bible to the reading found under today's date (if you have a Life Journal, it’s in the back). Take time reading and allow God to speak to you. When you are done, look for a verse that particularly spoke to you that day, and write it in your journal.

O is for Observation
What do you think God is saying to you in this scripture? Ask the Holy Spirit to teach you and reveal Jesus to you. Paraphrase and write this scripture down in your own words, in your journal.

A is for Application
Personalize what you have read, by asking yourself how it applies to your life right now. Perhaps it is instruction, encouragement, revelation of a new promise, or corrections for a particular area of your life. Write how this scripture can apply to you today.

P is for Prayer
This can be as simple as asking God to help you use this scripture, or it may be a greater insight on what He may be revealing to you. Remember, prayer is a two way conversation, so be sure to listen to what God has to say! Now, write it out.

Suggested Resources
www.lifejournal.cc – the church that launched this idea, New Hope, maintains a website full of helpful tips and strategies
www.biblegateway.com – a searchable eBible that include multiple translation and study help
The Divine Mentor, Wayne Cordeiro (explains the benefits of spending time with God)
The New Believer’s Guide to the Bible, Greg Laurie (contains a great "overview" section)
Understanding and Applying the Bible, Robertson McQuilin (a bit more academic)
How to Read the Bible Book by Book, Fee and Stuart (450 pages of "big-picture" help)