Lead with Reflection: The Habit of Writing What I Learn

“The Lord gave me this answer: ‘Write down clearly on tablets what I reveal to you, so that it can be read at a glance.’” Habakkuk 2:2 (GNT)

Part of learning to hear God speak—and remembering what he says—is writing it down. This is the spiritual habit of journaling, and it’s a great one for followers of Jesus to understand and practice.

A journal is not a diary. A diary is about the things I did. But a journal contains my prayers to God and the lessons I’ve learned—the mistakes I’ve made and what he has taught me through them. It’s a written record of my journey with God.

One way to journal is to write God’s responses to my questions. As I read the Bible, write down the questions that come to mind. Then record the things God reveals.

Habakkuk did that when he wanted to hear God speak. In the book of Habakkuk, the Lord said, “Write down clearly on tablets what I reveal to you, so that it can be read at a glance” (Habakkuk 2:2 GNT). That’s how we got the book of Habakkuk. In chapter one, Habakkuk wrote down what he said to God. And in chapter two, he wrote down what God said back to him.

That’s also how we got the book of Psalms. Many of the psalms were written by David during his quiet moments with God. In some, he begins with what he’s feeling and ends with what God says.

Another way to journal is to write down my prayers. When I write them down, it preserves a spiritual legacy for my children and grandchildren. Imagine the influence I can have for generations to come if I keep a spiritual journal. The Bible says, “Write these things for the future so that people who are not yet born will praise the LORD” (Psalm 102:18 NCV).

Writing down my prayers also gives me the opportunity to record God’s answers when they come. I can remember how God had taken care of me. I could see how he had led me through.” 

If I don’t write down what I'm learning, I'm going to forget. The shortest pencil is longer than the longest memory—so write it down! And build a record of God’s care that I can return to again and again.

In Summary:

Habakkuk and David modeled the power of writing down their conversations with God—capturing both their prayers and God’s responses. Habakkuk recorded his dialogue with God, which became the book bearing his name, and David’s heartfelt reflections became the Psalms. Likewise, journaling my prayers allows me to preserve a record of God’s guidance, care, and faithfulness, creating a spiritual legacy for future generations. Writing down what I’m learning helps me remember how God has led me through challenges and answered prayers, serving as a continual reminder of His presence and direction. The act of journaling transforms fleeting moments of insight into lasting evidence of God’s hand in my life.

Bottom Line:

Write down what God reveals to me. Journaling turns fleeting moments of insight into lasting guidance—helping me remember His faithfulness, deepen my relationship with Him, and leave a spiritual legacy for those who follow.

My next wisest step is to begin a consistent habit of spiritual journaling—setting aside regular time to write down what God is teaching me, the prayers I'm praying, and the insights I gain through Scripture and reflection. By recording these moments, I'll not only strengthen my personal connection with God but also gain clarity and perspective for my leadership and coaching work. Over time, my journal will become a well of wisdom and encouragement—both for me and for those I mentor—helping me stay aligned with my purpose and create a lasting spiritual legacy.