As we read God's words, we begin to see how God responds to things. Doing daily devotions re-patterns the way we think and transforms the spirit of the mind. Then when we face similar situations, as Jesus did, we begin to respond in the same way.
Journaling is 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 on and review some of the 'gems' that you have received. Without writing them down, you may forget those blessings and some very important lessons! And while journaling is a very personal time with the Lord, you may want to share some of your daily journaling with your small group or mentors. Through discussion, you may be able to look deeper into what God is speaking to you, gain new insight and even encourage others.
Get A Journal Heritage offers Life Message Journals that include a Through-the-Bible Reading Plan that will guide you through the entire Bible in just one year.
Lets Get Started You'll need three items: a Bible, a pen/pencil and a journal.
When Should I Journal? It is a good idea to set aside a certain time in your schedule each day and find a quite place where you won't be distracted.
It's not important when you do your devotions, but that you make it a very important part of your day. For morning people, it's a great way to start your day. For others, it's 20-minute lunchtime appointments with Jesus. For the night owls, it's the final act of the day, the time to quiet their hearts and hear God's voice.
for Scripture
Open your Bible to the reading found under today's date of your Bible bookmark. 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.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.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.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.If this seems a little overwhelming, take it slowly and keep it simple. No matter how you decide to do your devotions, the important thing is to show up for your daily appointment, because God is always waiting for you!
*Information about journaling taken from www.enewhope.org
An Illustration of How to Hear God's Voice
1. Select a quiet place. Begin to worship, pray and read the Word.
2. Don’t look or listen outward into the cosmos, but inwardly into your spirit. Tune into the Spirit of Christ within you. 3. The Lord speaks His thoughts through His Spirit into my heart (mind). (1 Cor. 2:9-10)
4. My spirit communes with the Holy Spirit. (1 Cor.6:17)
5. I picture a peaceful lazy river of inner peace. As I pray I’m caught in the movement of God with a burden, impression, picture or image, or word.
Unmediated flow of spontaneous thoughts from the Holy Spirit, go directly to my mind where they are registered.
6. My mind’s activity now is partially taken up with journaling these thoughts, impressions, or pictures. I can write freely, knowing I will judge it later.
7. Everything I hear or see is then judged by the written Word of God and is brought into the light for counsel and feedback. I’m looking for a witness or confirmation.
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