Waiting can feel so hard, can’t it? Whether you’re longing for a new job, a breakthrough in a relationship, healing, or clarity for the future, that in-between space can stretch your faith to its limits.

Prayer journaling is a powerful way to draw near to God during those times, letting Him fill you with hope, peace, and joy as you trust in His perfect plans.

There was a season in my life when waiting felt unbearable. My husband and I were living in a city far from home, counting the days until we could return to our familiar surroundings. Each morning carried the ache of longing, but there in the stillness, prayer became my lifeline.

Today, I invite you to discover how prayer journaling can be your lifeline—an anchor for your soul — as you pour your heart before the Lord and allow His Word to anchor you in truth.

What Is Prayer Journaling?

At its core, prayer journaling is a written conversation with God. It’s pouring out your thoughts, emotions, struggles, and praise while creating space to listen and reflect on what the Holy Spirit reveals. It’s not about being perfect or poetic; it’s simply about being honest with your Father, who loves you and delights in walking through life with you.

How to Start Your Prayer Journal

If journaling feels intimidating or unfamiliar, don’t worry. These easy steps will help you ease into the practice.

1. Create a Sacred Space

Begin by setting aside a time and place for journaling. Whether it’s the quiet moments of morning, your lunch break, or just before bed, choose a time when you can reflect without rushing.

Have a journal you love—something simple but special. Keep a pen nearby and a favourite Bible verse for encouragement. If you're looking for something more guided, you can find the prayer journals I create here:

www.journalsbycrystal.com/journals

2. Write from Your Heart

Start with honesty. Write to God as though you’re talking to a loving friend. What’s on your heart today? Are you frustrated? Hopeful? Unsure? Don’t filter your thoughts; lay them all before Him.

For example, your entry might begin like this:

3. Reflect on Scripture

Choose a Bible verse or passage to guide you. Write it down and meditate on its meaning. For example, Romans 15:13 speaks of hope, joy, and peace as you trust in God. Reflect on how this verse applies to your current season of waiting.

Ask questions like:

• What does it mean to trust in God in my situation?
• How has He provided peace in the past, and how might He bring that peace now?

4. Listen and Respond

After pouring your heart out, pause to listen. Journaling isn’t just about writing; it’s also about creating a moment for the Holy Spirit to speak to you.

You might feel prompted to write down a thought or response, like:

5. Close with Gratitude

End each entry by thanking God for His presence, even in the uncertainty. Gratitude shifts your focus from problems to His provision.

Try adding something like this to your entry:

Three Simple Methods to Help You Begin

1. Answer These Guided Prompts

If the blank page feels daunting, use these prompts to guide you:

• What am I feeling today, and what do I want to bring before the Lord? 
• What do I sense God is teaching me in this waiting season? 
• What scriptures resonate with me right now, and how do they speak into my circumstances? 
• What scriptures resonate with me right now, and how do they speak into my circumstances? 
• What am I grateful for today?

2. Write Your Heart’s Prayers

Here are some examples of simple prayers you can adapt for your own journal entries.

A Prayer of Trust

Father, it feels hard to trust when I don’t see answers, but I know You are good. Help me rest in Your promises. Fill me with hope today, even as I wait.

A Prayer for Strength

Lord, I feel weak and tired in this season, but I know my strength comes from You. Please sustain me with Your peace. Show me how to keep moving forward one step at a time.

A Prayer of Surrender

God, I surrender my plans, my desires, and my timing to You. Teach me to trust that Your ways are higher and better than mine.

3. Try These Reflection Questions

Take time after journaling to reflect on these questions. They’ll help you deepen your connection with God and find peace, even as you wait:

• How does the act of writing your prayers help you process your emotions and trust God? 
• Have you noticed any moments of peace or reassurance since starting your journal? 
• How is God working in your heart during this time? 
• What shifts when you choose gratitude instead of focusing on what’s missing?

May You Find Overflowing Hope

Waiting often feels like an in-between place, but prayer journaling transforms that space into holy ground. Through the simplicity of pen, paper, and prayer, you’ll discover a hope that isn’t tied to outcomes but flows abundantly from God Himself.

He is with you, shaping your heart and growing your faith even now. Trust Him to meet you in your waiting and use these moments to draw you closer to Him.

With love and encouragement,

Crystal

Originally posted on Rewritten by Grace.