Confession: I haven’t always been “good” at prayer. For a long time, I really struggled with staying focused, knowing what to say, or even wanting to sit still long enough to pray. My mind would wander, I’d get distracted, and honestly… sometimes I just felt stuck.
But in that season, God began gently changing my heart.
He showed me that prayer wasn’t meant to be complicated or intimidating — it was simply talking with Him, being honest with Him, and letting His Word guide me.
That’s when prayer journaling became such a huge blessing in my life.
It created a quiet space where I could slow down, write out what was on my heart, and connect with God in a way that felt real and natural. No pressure. No perfection. Just me and the Lord.
And maybe you’ve felt the same way before.
Maybe you’ve had moments where you thought…
If so — you are SO not alone.
I’ve been there too. And prayer journaling has truly helped me find a deeper, quieter, more consistent walk with Jesus.
What Is Prayer Journaling?
Prayer journaling is simply writing down your prayers, thoughts, Scripture reflections, and even questions for God in a dedicated journal. It’s not about having the “perfect quiet time”—it’s about being present with the Lord, bringing your heart to Him, and letting the Holy Spirit speak.
Think of it as a spiritual dialogue. You’re not just writing to God, you’re also listening for Him.
“Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.”
—Jeremiah 33:3
Why Prayer Journaling Matters
In a world that’s constantly moving, prayer journaling helps us slow down and actually see what God is doing. Writing helps us process emotions, recognize answered prayers, and stay rooted in truth. It’s also a deeply personal way to remember how faithful God has been through every season.
“I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago.”
—Psalm 77:11
Prayer journaling becomes a record of God’s faithfulness—a written testimony of His presence in our lives.
How to Prayer Journal with 7 Simple Steps:
There’s no one “right way” to prayer journal, but here are a few prayer journaling ideas to begin:
- 1. Start With Scripture: Let God speak first. Read a verse or passage and write it down. Ask Him to help you understand what He wants to show you.
- 2. Write Your Prayers Honestly: Be open and real. Whether it’s praise, confession, questions, or emotions you don’t quite understand — bring it all to Him.
- 3. Keep Track of Requests and Answers: Writing down what you’re praying for — and how God answers — strengthens your faith and helps you see His hand over time.
- 4. Include Gratitude: Even small blessings matter. Gratitude shifts your heart and helps you recognize God’s goodness in everyday moments.
- 5. Ask Questions: If you’re unsure about something in Scripture or in life, write your questions down. God welcomes your curiosity and often answers as you seek Him.
- 6. Reflect on What God Is Teaching You: Journal moments where God brings clarity, comfort, conviction, or encouragement. These become precious markers of His faithfulness.
- 7. Show Up as You Are: Some days you’ll have a lot to write; other days, not much at all. That’s okay. A simple “Lord, I’m here” is beautiful to Him.
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“Trust in him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge.”
—Psalm 62:8
A Real Example: Ashley’s Prayer Routine
If you’ve seen our Coffee and Bible Time videos, you know Ashley’s prayer routine is simple, honest, and flexible. Not perfect—just real.
Her routine often includes:
This kind of routine gives enough structure to keep you focused without feeling like a checklist. Check out her personal routine in the video below:
The Spiritual Impact of Prayer Journaling
Prayer journaling isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. It brings stillness in a noisy world and anchors your heart to God’s truth. Over time, it can help you:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
—Philippians 4:6
When You Feel Distant
Some days you’ll open your journal and feel completely uninspired. That’s okay. Sometimes, just showing up is the act of faith. Even a few words—“Lord, I don’t have much today, but I’m here”—can open the door to meaningful connection.
“Come near to God and he will come near to you.”
—James 4:8
Prayer Journaling Is for You
Whether you’re just starting out in prayer or have been walking with Jesus for years, prayer journaling is for you. It’s not about being perfect or following a trend—it’s a simple, meaningful habit that helps you stay connected to Him.
So grab a journal, a pen, and a quiet moment. Ask God to meet you there.
He will.
“But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
—Matthew 6:6
If you’re ready to grow in your faith, draw closer to God, and stay rooted in His Word—even on the busiest days—prayer journaling is a beautiful place to begin. Whether you write out your prayers, reflect on Scripture, or pour your heart out to the Lord in creative ways, this simple habit can help to anchor your soul in truth.
Tools That Make Prayer Journaling Sweeter and More Consistent
If you want something to guide you or help you build a prayer routine you’ll actually enjoy, we created a few resources to support you. Check out our full Prayer Journal Collection which includes:
The Coffee & Bible Time Prayer Journal
A beautiful, full-size journal with:
Perfect if you love journaling deeply, reflecting on Scripture, and having lots of space to write. Many women also use it as a sweet evangelism tool. See how Ashley gifted a prayer journal to someone over on Instagram!
The Prayer Binder (Customizable & Compact)
A smaller, minimal, easy-to-carry binder with:
Perfect if you want flexibility, portability, and a simple, clean design.
45-Page Printable Prayer Journal
A custom-friendly option (great for international friends!) that gives you guided pages you can print again and again.
Want Help Learning HOW to Pray Using a Prayer Journal?
We also created two step-by-step mini courses to help you feel confident and excited about prayer.
How to Pray Using the Prayer Journal
This course helps you:
Great for anyone wanting a deeper, more meaningful quiet time.
How to Pray Using the Prayer Binder
This course teaches you:
Perfect if you want structure that’s flexible and motivating.
Why You’ll Love These Courses
Ready to Begin Prayer Journaling?
You don’t need a perfect routine or perfect words.
Just a quiet moment and a heart willing to meet with God.
Pick up your Bible, grab your journal (or one of ours!), and start talking to Him.
He’s already leaning in.
“Your Father who sees what is done in secret will reward you.” — Matthew 6:6
We’re cheering you on and praying this becomes a beautiful part of your walk with Jesus.
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