Bible journaling is one of the most effective ways to aid someone in the study of Scriptures especially in times of devotion. The more we write our thoughts down, the easier it is to remember what we are learning. The fact that we have a written record of our moments with the Lord also makes it easier if we want to go back and reflect.
There are no rules in having a Bible journal. You can go about it however you wish. There are lots of examples as to how to do it online, but really, just go with whatever you're comfortable with. Personally, I keep mine straightforward with some drawings here and there. Other people prefer elaborate designs which are all very beautiful. But in the end, your journal depends on your own preference. You make the rules as you go along. It's yours, so to make it fun, you have to make it your own.
To encourage you to start journaling or to keep on journaling, here are five tips to help you thrive in this activity.
1. Keep it God-centered
It's Bible journaling, so really, it's a two-person activity. It's between you and the Lord. A guideline I can suggest is writing down the Scripture that God causes to be alive in your heart during your Bible reading. Then follow it up with your own meditations.
As I see it, Bible journaling is a mentorship moment where God teaches and we, like good students, take note.
2. Simplicity is key
Don't try to over-elaborate. If you're just starting out, baby-steps are OK. A single sentence is already a good start. What matters is that you get a point down. Development takes time, so just let the habit grow. Write at a moderate pace and don't overdo or over think yourself. Make it fun. There is beauty in simplicity.
3. Take your time
The best thoughts are written down when the time is not put into consideration. Putting a time limit makes the activity more like a written exam rather than a serene moment with the Lord. From my own experience, the best pieces of revelation that I've written down are those when I did not care about the clock at all. Just let it flow.
And if in case you really don't have a lot of time, maximize what time you do have and focus on the most important things to record and go back to point number one. Keep it simple.
4. Spice it up
Add drawings if you draw. Use different colored pens to highlight different things. Spice it up to your pleasure. Sometimes I write Greek and Hebrew characters depending on my Scripture study. Sometimes I do calligraphy. Use the gifts that God has given you to make your journal alive and interesting; yes, even for you.
5. Don't worry if you miss something
Don Whitney writes that journaling "is not a burden from God to document your entire life; rather it is meant to bless you and be a means of joy and godliness." So take it easy and relax even if you feel like you should have written about that revelation or that moment that you weren't able to jot down. Journaling can be a means of stress relief, but never should it be a means to cause stress.
