Life Journal

‘Life Journals’ are available from the Open Door Centre at a cost of $5.

We believe that the best way to grow and mature your relationship with God is to spend time daily with him in his word; the bible. SOAP journaling is one way to develop this discipline.

Click on the following link to listen to an audio message on the value of this practice from Pastor Wayne Codeiro, New Hope Christian Fellowship, Hawaii. (Used with permission)

Your Daily Time With God.

The following are some useful principles to support you in this journey.

HOW TO USE MY JOURNAL

A journal is an excellent way to both record and process your relationship with God and others through God’s word. It’s also a useful tool to use at a later time to reflect on and review your faith journey.

Whilst using a journal represents a very personal time with the Lord, it also gives you the opportunity to share with others. Through discussion, you may be able to look deeper into what God is saying to you, gain new insights and even encourage others.

If this seems a little overwhelming, take it slow and keep it simple. If you miss a day, don’t feel obligated to make it up. Remember this journal is about your relationship with God, not about rules and regulations. If nothing impacts you, don’t make judgements about yourself or God’s word as there will be times when you reading Scripture will be difficult.

No matter how you use your journal, the important thing is to keep your daily commitment, because God is wanting to meet with you.

The ‘SOAP’ Rhythm

SCRIPTURE: Read the passages for the day and invite God to speak to you. Highlight, underline or place a mark in the margin of your Bible next to the verses that stand out. When you are done, re-read the verses you marked, and look for one that particularly speaks to you and write it in your journal. When you read with an open heart, the Lord will give you words of encouragement, direction and correction. (2 Timothy 3:16)

OBSERVATION: Write down what you think God is saying to you in this     scripture? Write down your observations and insights. You may care to write this scripture down in your own words.

APPLICATION: Write down the way in which the passage applies to your life right now. Perhaps it is instruction for how to live, or encouragement for your situation, or a promise to hold onto, or correction for a particular area in your life. Record your insights in the journal.

PRAYER: Write down your prayer. This can be as simple as asking God to help you use this scripture, or revealing to God the steps you will take to respond to His word to you. Remember, prayer is a two way conversation, so be sure to listen to what God has to say!