Journaling | A way to connect deeper to God

Praying to God our Father, can often feel like a journey without a clear map at times for those of us who aren’t used to it. Maybe we have a hard time with emotional regulation and the thought of prayer can feel heavy. Just Hear me out… Many seek a deeper connection with Jesus through prayer but, if you are anything like me, you’ve likely struggled to find a way to express your inner thoughts and feelings out loud in prayer to God.

You may be thinking , How is someone who is so emotional saying it is hard for her to pray out loud?” Well for me , it just is. So I have learned to write my prayers down. Putting pen to paper and journaling has become such a mental relief for the chaos of thoughts inside of my mind. Writing regularly can also help you explore your beliefs, clarify your values, and track your progress in a meaningful way, while also writing down your prayers.

This post will guide you through the process of using journaling as a method for prayer. You will learn practical techniques, understand the benefits, and find inspiration to start or deepen your journaling practice.

Why Journaling Supports A Deeper Connection with God

Journaling creates a private space where you can be honest and reflective with yourself and the Holy Spirit. When you write about your experiences, doubts, and insights, you begin to notice patterns and shifts in your thinking. This awareness helps you make conscious choices aligned with your spiritual values, as you deepen in your relationship and walk with the Lord.

Writing also slows down your thoughts, allowing you to process emotions and experiences more clearly. This clarity can lead to moments of insight and peace and allow you to hear the Holy Spirit more clearly.

How to Begin Journaling Prayers

Starting a journal can feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to begin. Here are some simple steps to help you get started:

• Choose Your Journal

Pick a notebook or digital app that feels inviting. The physical act of writing by hand can be grounding, but digital tools offer convenience and searchability.

• Set a Routine

Dedicate a specific time each day or week for journaling. Even 5 to 10 minutes can make a difference.

• Create a Sacred Space

Find a quiet spot where you feel comfortable and undisturbed. You might light a candle or play soft music to set the mood.

• Start with Prompts

Use questions to guide your writing and prayers. Examples include:

- What am I feeling right now?

- What has the Holy Spirit shown me today ?

- What scripture popped in my head today?

-Who do I know personally that needs prayer

• Write Freely

Don’t worry about grammar or spelling. Let your thoughts and feelings flow naturally without judgment of what may be coming out of your heart on to that paper…this is between YOU and Jesus.

Techniques to Deepen Your Journaling Time

Once you establish a routine, you can explore different techniques to enrich your journaling experience:

Gratitude Journaling (personal Fav)

Writing about what you are grateful for and telling GOD in heaven with a thankful heart will cause SO much Joy to flow through you friend.

Psalm 100:4 says “ enter into His gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him and praise His Holy Name.”

I promise you , doing this as often as you can, will shift your focus and bring Joy to your hearts. This practice can increase feelings of contentment and spiritual connection between you and God as well.

Reflective Writing

Look back at past journal entries you may have made to see how your thoughts and feelings have evolved over time, and/or what prayers God has answered. Reflect on challenges you have overcame or moments of clarity you experienced in times of distress.

Dialogue Journaling (Prayer Journaling)

This is simply writing down the conversation you have with God , in prayer form. This can help you gain new perspectives and resolve inner conflicts, help you slow down and hear what the Holy Spirit may be speaking to you.

Dream Journaling

This is another one of my favorites. Because I do it often. Write down your dreams in detail. Keep a small notebook beside of your bedside and if God wakes you up at 3am (as He often will) write down who God placed on your heart for prayer , what you may be feeling or a the dreams you may have had.

Benefits You Can Expect from Journaling

Regular journaling can bring many benefits to your Christian Walk

• Increased Intimacy with God

You become more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and spiritual needs, but know that God also is aware of these inside of us beings and entire new sense of intimacy with Jesus.

• Emotional Healing

Writing helps release pent-up emotions and reduces stress and anxiety

• Clarity and Focus

Journaling sharpens your understanding of Gods path for your life , things you may be learning while Bible studying and goals you may have.

• Higher Discernment or Spiritual Gifting

As you listen to the Holy Spirit more when journaling, your spiritual gifts may become clearer. Especially when we open Gods Word and draw closer to Him.

Overcoming Common Challenges in Spiritual Journaling

Many people face obstacles when starting or maintaining a journaling habit. Here are some tips to overcome them:

• Writer’s Block

Use prompts or write about simple daily experiences to get started.

• Lack of Time

Even a few minutes a day can be effective. Try writing during a morning coffee or before bed.

• Self-Judgment

Remember that your journal is between YOU and God. There is no right or wrong way to write. Just start writing

• Inconsistency

Set reminders or pair journaling with another daily habit like when you pray

Final Thoughts: Journaling

Journaling is a simple yet powerful way to find your voice when praying out loud can seem difficult. Just by writing regularly, you create a space to grow close to God, clarify your own thoughts and feelings, and track your progress down the road that has been made in your life. The key is to start small, be consistent, and allow your writing to be honest and open.

If you have not tried journaling before, consider starting today. Choose a quiet moment , pick a prompt, and let your thoughts flow. Over time, you will discover a clearer, stronger more intimate relationship with yourself and the Holy Spirit.

Take the first step now and open your journal to a new chapter of drawing closer to God.