Bible Journaling

HOW TO BIBLE JOURNAL by Dave Corlew

I stink at journaling. Over the years when I’ve read my Bible, I’ve often tried to grab a notebook and pen, too. I would then jot down a few of the verses I just read, maybe record a few of my observations or questions and then write out my prayers to God. Sometimes it seemed real helpful, sometimes it was drudgery. More often than not I would stick with using the notebook for no more than just a couple of weeks at a time. Each of my attempts at journaling forced me to think about what I was reading and learning. It just didn’t come easily for me; on again, off again – start and stop.

Now here is the amazing thing; I’ve kept almost all of my journals from the last 26 years. I read through them occasionally, and every time I do I am surprised by how interesting and helpful it is to review my meager notes. I’m reminded of so much - of important lessons and insights that I had almost forgotten about and that I’ve been through some really difficult times in the past and God has always helped me - I realize I really have been making slow but steady progress in this life of faith. I end up being encouraged and inspired to crack open a notebook again!

Depending on your temperament and learning style, keeping a Bible journal may come easy or it may seem pretty mechanical and laborious. If you give it a try you might do a journal entry every day or just once a week; you might stay faithful doing it for years or be a start and stop kind of guy like me. No matter. I want to challenge you to add a pen and notebook to your Bible reading and see what happens! This little addition could likely take you to the next level in your spiritual growth. It may or may not come easily to you, but it will be worth it.

If you are anything at all like me, your big question right now is: How exactly do I do this? What should I be writing down? Below are some journaling ideas. They are possible ways to do it, but the bottom line is that there is no “wrong” way to journal; copy your favorite verse for the day, write out your prayer, express what you think God wants you to do, draw a picture, fill up two lines or two pages – just give Bible journaling a shot – you might just enjoy it!

At the top of each entry begin by jotting down the date and the Scripture you are reading. (Example: 1-5-08, John 8: 1-11)

Try one of these formats:

S.P.E.C.S.

As you read, put on your S.P.E.C.S., carefully read the passage of Scripture and then write down any:

Sins to avoid – What deeds or attitudes would displease God?

Promises to claim – Anything here that God is promising to you?

Examples to follow – Remember that we can learn from bad examples as well as good examples.

Commands to obey – What is God calling you to do? (Or not do?)

Summarize and apply – Try to condense what is being taught into one phrase or sentence and then apply it to your life – be as specific as possible.

* Not every passage of scripture you read will have each of the S.P.E.C.’s. Leave that line blank if there is nothing there!

Now here is what it might look like while reading John 8:1-11.

S.P.E.C.S.

Sins to avoid – adultery, being critical and judgmental of others, being hypocritical

Promises to claim – Jesus does not condemn me when I sin if I come to him for forgiveness (v.11)

Examples to follow – be compassionate to those being judged and humiliated

Commands to obey – “Go now and leave your life of sin” (v.11) Jesus forgives but he also wants me to stop being a dummy, making bad choices!

Summarize and apply – We all mess up so don’t go around acting like I’m better than others. Even though I get disgusted by the vulgar language my neighbor George always uses, I will not let that keep me from being friendly and respectful to him.

S.O.A.P.

Scripture – identify a verse that was particularly meaningful to you today and write it out in your journal.

Observation – What is being emphasized or taught? Why is it important? Put down any general observations or questions that come to mind. Rewrite the passage of Scripture into your own words.

Application – Ask yourself: “So what?” What little action step can you put into your life as a result of what you’ve learned today?

Prayer – simply write out what you want to say to God!

Finally, let me give you example of how S.O.A.P. might look while reading John 8:1-11.

S.O.A.P.

Scripture – “If any of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.”

Observation – What did Jesus write on the ground? Why? How did the Pharisees “catch” this woman? Was she set up? What is a “Pharisee”?

The Pharisees had to have been really embarrassed to walk away from this situation. The “older ones” left first because they had more life experience and wisdom and so they knew first that Jesus put them in their place!

The women must have been scared out of her mind and so humiliated.

Jesus was teaching that it is outrageously hypocritical to judge others when we all have problems.

Application – I will take a few minutes right now to think about all the sins I still struggle with – maybe that will prevent me from acting “holier-than-thou” toward those who aren’t Christians.

Prayer – Heavenly Father, I want to thank you that Jesus came to save and not to condemn. I’m grateful for all the forgiveness that you’ve given to me. Help me to never take advantage of your mercy. Please forgive me for the times that I thought I was actually better than others – what an arrogant mistake! Help me to always stand up for those who are being victimized by others. Help me to live this day for you. Amen.

Okay, now grab a cup of coffee, your Bible, a notebook and a pen and give it a try yourself! Happy journaling