How to Keep a Spiritual Journal

Last Updated: February 24, 2023 Approved

A spiritual journal is a great way to connect more deeply to yourself and to your spiritual practice. How you use the journal is up to you, but many find it helpful to write observations about their connection to God/Spirit and their spiritual practice in general. No matter what you write about, developing a habit of reflection and writing is key to keeping this practice going. Read on for more information on how to start.

Spiritual Journal Entry Template

Sample Spiritual Journal Entry Template

1

Purchase a journal to write in.

You want to start with a blank journal. Or, you can find a daily devotional journal that already has predetermined categories to write about. Most bookstores will have these; you'll find a larger variety at spiritual or religious stores.

2

Set a time each day to sit and self reflect.

Think about how far you are on your spiritual journey. You may look at how you are feeling and examine why you feel that way. You can also write down things that inspire you throughout the day.^{[1]
X
Research source}

3

Keep your spiritual journal with you at all times.

You never know when something will make you wonder about spirituality. Keeping your journal on hand allows you to write down quotes, spiritual text references, or general thoughts you wish to reflect on at a later time.^{[2]
X
Research source}

4

Acknowledge your blessings.

Write about the things in your day that make you feel grateful. Research shows that people who make a point to feel gratitude are happier and healthier people.^{[3]
X
Research source}

5

Set spiritual goals.

These can be things you wish to do on a daily basis to further your spiritual growth. Make sure you set an end date so that you strive to accomplish your goal within the allotted time.

6

Write down any prayers that inspire you.

This may be anything. There is equal power in a prayer you have created yourself, a prayer you read in scriptures or other spiritual writings. Having favorite prayers on hand allows you to reference them quickly any time you may need.^{[4]
X
Research source}

7

Review your journal entries at least once a month.

This reflection process is key. By taking time to self reflect on your prior entries, you can better see the direction of spiritual enlightenment you are heading in. Through reading your daily devotional writing, you can use the information to work toward new goals, search for more information to questions you have asked yourself in the last month, and give thanks for the lessons you have already learned.^{[5]
X
Research source}

Community Q&A

Question

How can I download this article as a PDF?

Community Answer

With most modern versions of Windows and Apple, if you print the page through your browser (under the file menu), you should have a "Print to PDF" option, which generates a PDF. Please only use this for private and educational use.
Question

Can I use this for other religions besides Christianity? What could I write about?

Community Answer

Yes, this can be used for other religions. You can write about anything mentioned in this article, as this article is not tailored just for Christianity. You can also write about important parts of your religion which aren't mentioned here, such as fasting, meditation, and giving to the needy.
Question

How do I read the Bible for an understanding of what Gods' promises are for me, for example in Psalm 91?

Community Answer

Psalm 91 is basically telling you that if you put your faith in Jehovah God, nothing that happens in your life will happen without the protection of Him. He is there to shelter you, and there for you to lean on, talk with, and pray to.