Do you ever wake up with your mind already spinning? Like, you're not even sure you slept because it feels like the thoughts went on all night? Before the morning light hits your eyes, the worries are stacking up, and a sinking feeling that you might not be able to handle it all is already welling up.

You're not the only one. Some mornings are harder than others, but if I don't start the day doing this one thing, I might as well go back to bed. I already know the day is going to be a write-off.

Every morning, before the demands of the day start pulling me in a hundred different directions, I sit down with my prayer journal. It’s not a fancy ritual—just me and God, my journal and Bible, and a cup of tea. But it’s become the anchor that keeps me steady.

I’ve learned the hard way what happens when I skip this time.

On those rushed mornings when I dive straight into the chaos, I feel it almost immediately. My thoughts are scattered, my heart feels heavy, and I’m constantly reacting instead of being intentional. Worries swirl in my mind—Did I forget something? Am I doing enough?

Too many days of this in a row, and I find myself running on empty, trying to do all the things in my own strength.

But when I take the time to be still in God’s presence, everything changes.

Writing my prayers helps me untangle the mess in my mind.

I start by pouring out my worries, one by one, onto the page. As I write, I feel the weight lifting, like I’m handing each burden over to God. Then I focus on gratitude, naming the blessings I might have overlooked in the rush of life. It’s amazing how even the smallest things, like the warmth of the sun or a kind word from a friend, can shift my perspective.

Some mornings, I don’t have much to say. I just sit quietly, asking God to guide my day. At other times, the words flow freely, and I fill pages with prayers for my family, friends, and the dreams God has placed on my heart. No matter what, I always leave that time feeling more grounded, more focused, and more connected to Him.

Prayer journaling has taught me that I don’t have to carry the weight of the world on my shoulders. It’s a daily reminder that God is in control, and I can trust Him to lead me. And when I look back at old entries, I see His faithfulness written all over my story—prayers answered, lessons learned, and grace upon grace.

Why Prayer Journaling Works

Prayer journaling is more than just putting pen to paper. It’s a way to process your emotions, quiet your mind, and focus on God’s presence. When life feels like a constant rush, stopping to write your thoughts and prayers can be the reset you need.

Think of it this way—a cluttered mind often leads to a cluttered life.

But when you take those swirling thoughts and surrender them to God in writing, something shifts. You turn chaos into clarity. You move from simply reacting to intentionally connecting with the One who holds everything together.

Simple Steps to Start Organizing Your Prayer Journal

If you’re ready to experience that clarity, here are some practical steps to get started. You don’t need a perfect system—just a bit of intention and a willingness to show up.

1. Choose Your Journal

Find a notebook or journal that feels inviting to you. It doesn’t have to be fancy—whatever helps you feel comfortable enough to write freely. For some, a blank notebook works best, while others prefer an organized journal with preformatted sections.

2. Create Sections for Focus

To avoid feeling overwhelmed, consider dividing your journal into sections. Here’s a simple structure to start with:

• Gratitude: Begin by listing the blessings in your life, no matter how small. Gratitude has a way of shifting our perspective toward God’s goodness. 
• Confession: Write honestly about the struggles or sins you’re facing. Lay them before God, knowing He meets you with grace, not judgment. 
• Intercession: Make space to pray intentionally for others. Write down the names of people you want to lift up in prayer and the specific needs they have. 
• Petitions: Journal about your own needs, desires, and fears. You can surrender them to God because He cares deeply for you. 
• Answered Prayers: Keep track of moments when God’s faithfulness became evident in your life. This section will remind you of His goodness when you go through harder seasons.

3. Use Prompts to Stop Overthinking

If you’re unsure what to write, prompts can help. Try one or two of these to get started:

• What am I holding onto today that I need to surrender to God?
• What’s one thing I can trust Him with today that feels hard?
• Who in my life needs my prayers right now?
• How has God shown up for me recently, even in small ways?

4. Make It a Daily Practice

Set aside a few minutes every day for your prayer journal. Whether it’s five quiet minutes in the morning or a reflective session before bed, consistency is key. Think of it as showing up to meet with a trusted Friend who’s always ready to listen.

5. Reflect and Revisit

One of the most meaningful parts of prayer journaling is looking back. When you revisit earlier entries, you’ll see how God has worked in your life, how prayers have been answered, and how much growth you’ve experienced. It’s a tangible reminder of His faithfulness.

An Encouragement for You

Friend, if you’re feeling scattered and overwhelmed, take heart—you don’t have to untangle it all alone. Prayer journaling isn’t about creating a flawless spiritual practice. It’s about bringing your weary, messy, beautiful heart to God and allowing Him to bring order to your chaos.

Start small. Show up with your journal and be honest with Him. Some days your words might pour out effortlessly, and other days might feel quieter—and that’s okay. What matters is that you’re creating space to meet with the One who knows you, loves you, and longs to bring clarity and peace to your life.

Love always,

Crystal

Originally posted on Rewritten by Grace

Hey, I totally get that not everyone finds journaling as easy as opening a blank journal and writing their thoughts. That’s why I’ve created guided prayer journals to help people like you. I want to make it as easy as possible for you to connect with God about the things that are stressing you out.

Each journal contains a Bible reading plan (usually 30 days’ worth) and journaling prompts on specific topics. You can click on the Journals tab at the top or you can go to journalsbycrystal.com/journals to find the perfect journal for you!