This site includes links from a number of different affiliate programs. When you click on a link and make a purchase, we may earn a commission.
Journaling is a powerful spiritual practice that opens up space for deeper intimacy with God. It’s not just about writing down your thoughts, but about creating a dialogue with your Creator. Through journaling, you can express your heart, reflect on His Word, and invite His presence to shape your life. But did you know that journaling can be a two-way conversation? It’s not only about pouring out your heart to God but also about listening for His response.
In this post, I will walk you through how journaling can help you connect with God in a meaningful way, focusing on the practice of two-way journaling – where you not only speak to God, but also listen for His voice and write down what He speaks to your heart.
1. Create a Sacred Space for Journaling
To begin, set aside a dedicated space where you can focus on God without distractions. Whether it’s a quiet corner in your home, a spot in nature, or a peaceful nook in your favorite room, the environment you choose can influence your experience. Surround yourself with elements that help you feel peaceful and connected to God – perhaps a Bible, calming music, or something beautiful like flowers or candles.
Creating this sacred space sets the stage for your heart and mind to be focused on the divine conversation that you are about to engage in.
2. Begin with Prayer: Invite God into Your Journaling Time
Start by praying, inviting God into your journaling session. This isn’t just a routine; it’s an intentional act of surrender, inviting God’s presence to guide you as you write. Ask God to speak to you through this time, whether through His Word, your thoughts, or gentle impressions He places on your heart.
Here is an example prayer to start:
“Heavenly Father, I come before You today with an open heart. I invite Your Holy Spirit to guide this time and to speak to me. I want to hear from You, and I trust that You will speak to me clearly and lovingly. Please help me understand Your will and feel Your presence in this moment. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.”
Opening with prayer sets your intention and prepares you to receive what God has for you.
3. Express Your Heart: Write to God
Begin by writing to God. This is the first part of two-way journaling – speaking your heart, sharing your thoughts, worries, hopes, and prayers with Him. There is no need to hold back. God desires for us to come before Him authentically, as we are.
For example, you might write about your day, struggles you are facing, or areas where you feel confused or lost:
“Dear Father, I’m feeling overwhelmed today. My to-do list feels endless, and I’m struggling with feelings of inadequacy. I need Your strength and wisdom to guide me. Please help me feel Your peace and presence in the midst of this.”
The goal here is to be open and honest with God. Write as if you are having a personal conversation with Him. Don’t worry about grammar or style; let the words flow freely from your heart.
4. Shift to Listening: Write Down What God Says
After pouring out your heart, take a moment to listen. This is where the two-way aspect of journaling becomes powerful. Pause, quiet your mind, and wait for God to speak. This may come as a thought, a Scripture verse, a phrase, or even a feeling. The Holy Spirit often speaks in a still, small voice, and journaling provides the space for you to hear it.
As you listen, write down whatever comes to your mind. Trust that God is speaking to you, even if the message is brief or doesn’t come immediately. It might take a few moments of silence or reflection, but stay open and patient.
For example, you may sense God saying:
“My beloved child, I see your struggles. I am with you in this moment. I have given you the strength you need. Trust in My provision and know that I will guide you through every challenge. My peace will guard your heart and mind. Never forget, I love you deeply and will never leave you nor forsake you.”
This step is crucial because it helps you hear directly from God. Two-way journaling is not just about you talking to God, but about allowing Him to speak into your life and circumstances.
5. Reflect on God’s Voice: Let Him Lead Your Thoughts
After writing down what you sense God is telling you, take time to reflect on His words. How does His message impact your current situation? What does it reveal about His character or His will for you? Allow the Holy Spirit to bring deeper understanding as you meditate on what God has said.
You might feel encouraged, challenged, or reassured by His response. This is a moment of deep connection with God, where His voice is guiding and directing your steps.
For instance, after reading what God spoke to you, you might write:
My Father in Heaven, thank You for reminding me that I don’t have to carry this burden alone. Your peace is what I need to get through this. I will trust in Your provision and not lean on my own understanding. I love you. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
As you reflect, your understanding of God’s love and His faithfulness deepens, and you can align your actions and mindset according to His will.
6. Record Scriptures: Let God Speak Through His Word
Another way to engage in two-way journaling is by using Scripture. Start by selecting a Bible passage that resonates with your current life circumstances. Write down the verse and meditate on it. As you reflect, ask God to show you how the verse applies to your life.
For example, you might write down Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
Then, after meditating on this, you could write what you feel God is saying to you:
“I’ve been so focused on the challenges in front of me, Father, that I’ve forgotten You are working behind the scenes. You have good plans for me, and I trust You to lead me to the future You have promised.”
God’s Word can be a direct avenue for Him to speak into your life, and journaling about it helps you internalize His message more deeply.
7. Close with Gratitude and Trust
As you close your journaling time, take a moment to express gratitude. Thank God for His presence, for speaking to you, and for His ongoing work in your life. Trust that He has heard your prayers and that He will continue to lead you in the days ahead.
For example, you might finish your journal entry with:
“Thank You, Father, for speaking to me today. I trust that You are with me in every step. Help me to walk in faith and to remember Your promises. I place my hopes and worries in Your hands, knowing You are always faithful. I love You, Father. Amen.”
8. Journaling as a Continuous Conversation
Journaling doesn’t have to be a one-time event; it’s an ongoing conversation with God. You can come back to your journal each day or week, re-engaging in the dialogue, and hearing more of what God has to say. Over time, you will notice how He has been speaking consistently, offering comfort, guidance, and peace.
A Word of Caution: Discerning God’s Voice vs. the Voice of the Enemy in Journaling
Two-way journaling is a beautiful way to deepen your connection with God. By writing to Him and then listening for His voice, you open the door for a dynamic and transformative conversation. This practice not only helps you express your thoughts and emotions but also invites God to speak directly into your life. Over time, this two-way exchange will draw you closer to His heart, strengthen your faith, and help you live out His will with confidence.
As you journal, remember that God’s voice will always bring peace, love, joy, and kindness – the fruit of the spirit – these are signs it’s from Him. If what you hear makes you feel confused, fearful, or ashamed, it’s a signal to pause and reflect. The enemy tries to distort God’s truth and lead you away from His peace.
When discerning God’s voice, compare what you hear with Scripture, and trust that He will confirm His messages through His Word, prayer, and your community. God’s guidance will always encourage and lead you toward growth, never into shame or confusion. Stay close to His Word, and trust that He will guide you every step of the way.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.” Galatians 5:22-23, ESV
Start journaling today and let God’s voice guide you in every aspect of your life.
Recommended Products For Journaling

Watch This Video
Recommended Journals

– file formats: PPTX (editable), PDF
– size of the pages: US Letter (8.5 x 11 inches)
– resolution: 300 DPI

9 Different Prayer/Planner Pages
4 Art/Bible Journaling Pages
3 Great Prayers of the Bible Scripture Reading Plan Pages
4 Coloring Prayer/Scripture Cards Pages
10 Scripture Coloring Pages
3 Scripture Coloring Cards Pages
2 Prayer Doodle Pages
Size: US Letter Size – 8.5 x 11 inches
File formats: PPTX, PNG, PDF
Resolution: 300 DPI
Pin to Pinterest!

Welcome to this blog where we explore expressive and therapeutic art like doodling, sketch noting, coloring, journaling, (hand)writing, collaging, etc. to creatively walk with Christ.
I’m a disciple and servant of Jesus Christ, wife, mom, teacher, author, Christian Life Coach, Christian Expressive and Therapeutic Art Coach, blogger, and artist.
LEGAL DISCLAIMER
The content on Creative Walk With Christ, created by Janet Giessl, is intended solely for informational and inspirational purposes. Janet holds degrees in Education and Christian Leadership and is a Certified Christian Life Coach, Christian Expressive and Therapeutic Art Coach, and an Ordained Minister with the Christian Leaders Alliance. She holds degrees in Education and Christian Leadership, along with credentials in Bible, Ministry, Philosophy, and Theology. However, Janet is not a medical doctor, licensed therapist, psychologist, or health care professional.
While Janet's work focuses on promoting spiritual well-being and personal growth through expressive and therapeutic art, the information provided on this blog should not be taken as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Readers are encouraged to consult qualified healthcare professionals for any health concerns, including physical or mental health issues.
By using Creative Walk With Christ, readers acknowledge that they do so at their own discretion and that Janet Giessl is not liable for any outcomes arising from the use of this information.