How to Start a Prayer Journal
- Debbie Przybylski Intercessors Arise
- Updated Aug 19, 2019
“My heart is stirred by a noble theme as I recite my verses for the king; my tongue is the pen of a skillful writer” (Psalm 45:1).
Some of the most profound insights and experiences of life come through prayer journaling. God wants to speak and give us insights into life. Journaling brings shape and order to everything that we do. I have been keeping a prayer journal for many years, and it helps keep my life in order and my priorities right. It has been an important discipline in my prayer life, helping me to remember what God has done.
If you don't already have a prayer journal you can start today by journaling on a piece of paper then transfer your writings to a journal when it arrives. We've listed some of the highest rated prayer journals here if you don't currently have one or need an upgrade for a fresh start!
Strength and Dignity Handy-sized Leather Journal - Proverbs 31:25
Large Hardcover Wirebound Journal - 2 Corinthians 12:9-11
How to Prayer Journal Every Day
“Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always. Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles and the judgments he pronounced” (1 Chronicles 16:11-12).
Prayer journaling is a way to dialogue with God daily, so that we can remember what and how God is speaking to us. Here are some key ways to do it:
Begin to write - There are so many ways you can journal. God will give you creativity. Some examples are prayers, poetry, your dreams, goals, burdens, delights, joys, Scripture, songs, letters, or whatever God is saying to you.
Journal regularly but not out of duty - You may journal daily, weekly, or as often as you like. It is really up to you. It is important not to look at prayer journaling as a heavy burden or a duty. It’s a friend and will help you in life rather than weigh you down with another responsibility.
Record prayer requests and date them - You can look back at how God answered your prayers. This will build your faith in prayer. It will also remind you of requests that need more intercession.
Record God’s answers to your prayers - My husband recorded the dates of answered prayer while living overseas, and he saw how faithfully God answered his prayer requests. It is a testimony of God’s goodness.
Watch for the progress you are making in your spiritual life - I always look back in my prayer journals and see how I develop spiritually from year to year. It helps me so much to see spiritual progress in my life and how God is working.
Write out what God is saying to you - This is important so that you can look at your journal during the quiet seasons in your spiritual life. Ask yourself, “How is God personally revealing Himself to me?”
Write out key Bible verses that speak to you during times of prayer - God will guide and help you in important times of decision-making by using Scripture.
Prayer journaling will help you to see real growth in your life because you are bringing to God the things that concern you. Through journaling, you will see your life more clearly through God’s eyes. He has so much to say when we give Him time and seek His face. It’s important to write it down and not miss out on the wisdom He wants to share with us.
I believe that you will find it to be an irreplaceable blessing in your prayer and devotional life.
This is an 7-minute training that will help you learn key ways to prayer journal. Watch the video called: How to Prayer Journal.
“I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will meditate on all your works and consider all your mighty deeds. Your ways, O God, are holy” (Psalm 77:11-13a).
Debbie Przybylski
Intercessors Arise International
International House of Prayer Kansas City (IHOPKC)
Photo courtesy: ©Thinkstock/apichon_tee
