Studying the scriptures is a mind-expanding exercise, but using a study journal takes it even further. Writing as we study offers many benefits, including an increased ability to remember and reflect on what we learn. However, some people feel held back simply because they don’t know how to use a study journal effectively. Below are several helpful ideas to make your scripture study even more powerful through a study journal.
Write Questions to Ponder
In the scriptures, revelation often comes as the writer ponders on things they have learned or questions they have. The same can happen for us.
One way to make our study journal more effective is by writing (specific) questions to ponder. For example, if we were studying Matthew 11:28-30, some insightful questions we could write include:
- What burdens am I holding onto? How can I give them to the Lord?
- How am I coming unto my Savior and giving Him my burdens?
- When have I felt the “rest” from the Lord?
- How have I taken His “yoke” upon me?
Writing thoughtful questions invites us to pause and reflect. This practice expands both our minds and hearts and opens us to further revelation.
Re-write Meaningful Verses or Quotes
If you’ve taken an in-person college course, you may have heard the counsel to take handwritten notes rather than typed notes. Writing by hand significantly improves the brain’s ability to remember and recall information. The same principle applies to scripture study.
That being said, another helpful way we can use a study journal is simply by writing those verses or quotes that speak to our hearts. Taking the time to re-write them shows the Lord we really want to remember His words and want them to linger in our hearts.
A word of caution: we don’t need to rewrite entire chapters. Instead, writing a single verse—or even a phrase—can be powerful.
For example, while studying the Book of Mormon—specifically Alma 20—I was struck by the final line of verse 29: “nevertheless they were patient in all their sufferings.” I wrote this line in my journal and added the question, “Could this be said about me too?”
Writing both the verse and the question allowed me to reflect on my own life and the Christlike attribute of patience. I considered moments when the Lord strengthened me, as well as times when I chose to complain instead of turning to Him.
Write the Thoughts that Come to Your Mind
Lastly, we can write the thoughts that come to us. These thoughts might include:
- Promptings to act on
- Inspiration
- Encouragement from the Spirit
- Memories that come as we study
- Our feelings in that moment
- Etc
By writing our thoughts and feelings, we connect more deeply with ourselves and with God. This practice can also encourage us to take the action that is needed to change and draw closer to God.
Experience the Change
If you don’t already use a study journal, I encourage you to begin. Studying the scriptures this way will enlighten your mind, expand your ability to receive revelation, and deepen the joy you feel each day.
In the comments below, share what you have found helpful in your own scripture study 🙂
