"I remember praying for the things I have now."
If you don't write it down, you will forget. You will forget the answered prayers, the small graces, and the moments of clarity. A prayer journal acts as a "memorial stone" (Joshua 4:7) of God's faithfulness in your life.
Here are 3 simple ways to start, even if you hate writing.
Method 1: The A.C.T.S. Ledger
Divided your page into 4 quadrants. This keeps it short and structured.
- A (Adoration): "God, You are..." (e.g., "Faithful even when I am tired")
- C (Confession): "I am sorry for..." (e.g., "Snapping at my husband")
- T (Thanksgiving): "Thank you for..." (e.g., "The sun, coffee, the rent being paid")
- S (Supplication): "Please help..." (e.g., "My sister's surgery")
Method 2: Scripture Response (Lectio Divina)
Write down one verse from the daily Gospel. Then write 2-3 sentences of what God is saying to you through it. Example:
Verse: "Cast your nets on the other side." (John 21:6) Response: Lord, I feel like I've been working so hard with no results. You are asking me to trust You and try a new way, even if it seems foolish. Help me to let go of my own control.
Method 3: The "Letters to God" (Freestyle)
Just write "Dear Jesus," and dump your brain. Tell Him your anger, your fear, your confusion. Be raw. He can handle it. Pro Tip: End every entry with: "Jesus, I trust in You."
Why Journal?
- Focus: It stops your mind from wandering. The pen keeps you tethered to the thought.
- History: Reading back over old journals is the best way to see how much you've grown (and how faithfully God has answered prayers you forgot about).
- Release: Getting worries out of your head and onto paper engages a different part of the brain ("externalization"), reducing anxiety.
FAQ
Is it a sin if I write something angry at God?
No! Look at the Psalms. King David yelled at God constantly ("Why have you forsaken me?"). God wants your honesty, not your politeness.
Do I have to do it every day?
No. Start with Sundays, or whenever you feel overwhelmed.
Digital or Analog?
Pen and paper are best because they slow you down and have no notifications. But a notes app works if that's all you have.
Buy a cheap notebook today. Date the first page. Write "Dear Jesus." See what happens. Need prompts? The MyPrayerTower app offers daily journaling reflection questions.