The Meaningful Practice of Scripture Writing
A guide to deepening your connection to God’s word
Have you ever stared at a blank page in your journal and just couldn’t gather the right words? Or are you wanting to begin journaling but you don’t know where to start? My personal journaling journey goes back 20+ years but only recently has evolved into a scripture reflecting, gratitude practicing and prayer writing journal. Let me start with scripture writing in case you are not familiar with it. Scripture writing is the habit of handwriting Bible verses as a way to engage with the Word of God. Secondly, gratitude journaling is just as it sounds, writing down things you are grateful for in your life. And the third element is prayer writing, which allows you to have a written record of those prayers and insights in the ways that God opened and closed doors in your life based on what you prayed for over time.
The practice of handwriting scripture
My suggestion to get started with the practice of handwriting scripture is to simply look for themes that are repeated in scripture. For example, take the theme of Thanksgiving and look for as many verses as you can that contain this common sentiment. Starting with a deeper reflection on scriptures by opening a bible or even a bible app and writing several verses down in your journal helps you overcome the intimidating blank page. This habit also helps you to further connect with the scripture and to understand it at a deeper level. When you slow down and let the words flow onto the page you can better absorb the teachings. We know that writing things down can help with internalizing the words and reinforces comprehension and retention, but taking the time to focus and meditate on the words can enhance spiritual growth.
The practice of recording gratitude
The fact you can’t express gratitude and feel anxious at the same time is enough of a reason to incorporate the practice of recording gratitude on a regular basis. Studies show that practicing gratitude can significantly reduce anxiety, so there’s really no reason to not prioritize this as often as possible. As you reflect how the scripture applies to your own life, this self-examination can help you grow spiritually with the foundation of gratitude as a priority. I encourage not only writing down things you are grateful for, but also praying for God to open your eyes to the things that aren’t easily coming to mind when you are developing this habit.
The practice of writing down prayers
As easy as this idea sounds, it’s so easy to send up a quick prayer to God without thinking and when a blessing comes into your life it is easy to overlook the answered prayer that you just experienced. In my 20+ years of journaling, with plenty of prayers incorporated, I have seen evidence of God working in my life that I am pretty sure I may have missed otherwise. Wether it is a deep and intense prayer need or a lighthearted request for God to lead you in the right direction on a decision, making time to write these things down and reflecting on them at a later date can make a strong case for answered prayers or God closing a door. The sense of comfort and inspiration when we are reminded of God’s promises can never be taken away. What better way to uplift your spirit and receive guidance while deepening your relationship with God.
Making this three part journaling – scripture reflecting, gratitude practicing, prayer writing – a daily habit by stringing together common themes can result in a compilation of written words unlike any other type of personal journal. I encourage setting aside time each day for a few minutes to do this intentional practice and see how it deepens your relationship with God.
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