How To Start A Prayer Journal

Prayer Journaling is a way to remember what God has done, is doing and will do for us.  God Himself keeps a journal of our faithfulness so He has set the example for us to follow.  To prayer journal you do not just say the words, the words become part of you.

STEP ONE ~ Find a quiet place:

Find a quiet space where you can reflect and hear God's voice.  The space can be as simple as your favorite chair, restaurant, beach or park.  You just need to be where distractions are at a minimal and you are relaxed.

STEP TWO ~ Begin with a humble heart:

So many times we jump right into writing in our prayer journal without slowing down and seeking of God's voice.  Before you write one word or date take your Bible and read a few verses to quiet your heart before God.  Let Him direct the prayers you will write down.  Let Him speak first to you.

STEP THREE ~ Journaling Prayers and Lists:

After you have spent time with God begin writing.  Your journal should consist of two different types of journal writing -- a prayer list and actual prayers.  So many times we rush through this step by simply making a list and telling ourselves we will go back and pray, but few of us actually do.  So make your journaling time do both.  I usually begin with writing out my prayer to God and then making a list that I can track the answers.  A great online journaling program is Go-Journal found at http://www.go-journal.com.

STEP FOUR ~ End with a listening heart:

Finally, you will want to reflect on what you have written.  Not to make grammatical changes but to hear if there is more He wants you to pray for.  Again, slow down and learn to develop a listening heart.  There's a promise in Proverbs that tells us when we honor God, He will add hours to our day.  Learn to listen and honor God -- He will make sure you have time in your day to accomplish all that He has for you.