How Do I Journal?
3-Step Journal Method
Journaling is an incredible way to deepen your relationship with Jesus. We encourage you to try it each morning before you start your day. There is no right or wrong way to begin journaling, but here’s how we do it.
Write down the fact: Write down the verse and pull out the facts.
Figure out the lesson: Journal cross references (similar verses) to understand the meaning.
Understand the application: Journal how can you apply this verse to today? What does this verse stir up in your heart?
Lastly, we encourage you to share your journal with someone! Join our First Light group chat and see takeaways from others.
Example:
Verse: “For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1 ESV
1. Fact: What are the facts? What does it say? Write down the entire verse or condense it down.
For freedom Christ set us free. Stand firm, do not submit again to slavery.
2. Lesson: What does it mean? Is there a command? A promise? A warning? What is the takeaway? What other verses relate to this one?
“So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32 ESV
“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” John 8:36 ESV
“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” 2 Corinthians 3:17 ESV
A life with Jesus leads to freedom, not bondage and slavery.
Don’t turn back to a live of being enslaved to sin.
3. Application: What does the verse mean? Write an open-ended question that you would ask yourself or someone else.
Do I see my relationship with God as a burden or really as freedom?
Why do I feel like I don’t have freedom in Christ sometimes? Is it because I choose to live out my fleshly desires and not walk by the spirit?
What principles am I enslaved to?
Resources to Help Journaling
Type of Journal: Many of us use the A5 size refillable journals. You can easily find these on Etsy or Amazon. We label each journal with the date and topic we’re studying during that time.
How to Find Cross References: We suggest having a physical bible that has reference verses included, such as the ESV Men’s Study Bible. There are also many online resources where you can find cross reference verses. We like to use OpenBible.info or BlueLetterBible.org.
Supplemental Resources: While commentaries shouldn’t be held to the same standard as the Bible, they can be helpful in understanding. We use Enduring Word along with Blue Letter Bible listed above.
