So maybe you’re convinced that journaling is a good idea, but you don’t know where to start. You need to begin with some equipment. Not much, but something. Could be as simple as a composition notebook and a pencil. Or even loose leaf paper in a notebook. Some people keep a journal on a computer or handheld. But you’ll need something.

Personally, I like a Moleskine and a Bic four-color pen. Moleskine journals are hard to beat. Sturdy backing, quality paper, hidden pocket in the back, classic black, multiple sizes. They’re great. And yes, I do use all the colors in the Bic pen: red for Scripture, green for quotes from other books, blue for my own thoughts and meditations, black for prayers and prayer requests. I run out of red and blue fastest.

Once you have something to write with and on, then you need to write something. Here are a couple ways to get started:

• In a message Mark did back in January, he recommended writing two simple sentences about whatever verse(s) you’re reading: one that begins with “God…” and one that begins with “I…”
• Another way to say this would be to use your journal to answer two questions: 1) What does this verse tell me about God? and 2) what does this verse tell me about myself?
• Or, another suggestion from Mark: when reading the Old Testament, ask: 1) How does this verse show me God’s disposition to provide a Savior? or 2) Man’s disposition to require a Savior?

There’s a million different ways to do this. You don’t have to do it at all, but I think if you want to be amazed by grace, writing the truth about grace will help.

What about you?  Do you keep a journal?  What kind of journal do you use, and what kinds of things do you write about?

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