How to Keep a Prayer Journal

Keeping a prayer journal is an effective way to focus your prayers and keep track of your prayer requests and answers. While the process is tailored to each individual, here are some suggestions to get you started.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Journal
• Writing implement
• Bible

The Tools

1. Step 1

   Choose something that feels comfortable to write in. Experiment with side-bound and top-bound books, as well as lined and unlined paper. Some people do not feel comfortable writing on a thick pad of paper, so a slimmer notebook would be a better choice if this describes your preference. You can use anything from a spiral-bound notebook to a fancy logbook with a tooled-leather binding.

2. Step 2

   Invest in a journal that is aesthetically pleasing. Your journal is a travelogue of a spiritual journey. Choose a journal with a cover and binding that reflect its significance.

3. Step 3

   Choose a writing implement that is comfortable to write with. Regardless of whether you prefer pencil or pen, blue, black, or colored ink, ballpoint or fountain pen, find something that is easy to hold and use.

4. Step 4

   Keep a Bible on hand, if you like, so that you can add verses to your entries.

Writing in Your Journal

5. Step 1

   Date your entry. It may be helpful to divide the entry into two sections: "Petitions" or "Requests" and "Praises." Take a few moments to reflect. Under the "Petitions" heading, record your prayer requests. This would include personal requests and requests on behalf of others.

6. Step 2

   Under the "Praises" heading, record items you are thankful for and prayers that have been answered. You can pray for each item as you list it and each section as you finish it, or you can wait until you are finished recording the entire entry and use it as an outline as you pray.

7. Step 3

   Leave some space at the bottom or on the reverse side of every entry page. This is where you will record answers to prayers, observations, and scripture quotes that seem relevant to situations you are praying for, notes from daily devotions. Review the journal pages every few days or weeks and record any answers or observations.

8. Step 4

   Make your prayer journal part of your routine. Commit to writing in it on a set schedule. Stick with it and you will be rewarded with a tangible record of your prayer life as it unfolds.