How to Write Notes in a Journal for Personal Bible Quiet Times

Last Updated: May 6, 2021 Approved

"All (holy) scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:" (2 Timothy 3:16) ^{[1]
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Here are some suggestions and reasons for studying the Bible and writing notes, whether you are going to keep note cards, a Bible study journal, prayer journal or other records of your individual bible study and quiet time with the Lord.

Steps

1
Decide on the chapter you will read. It is better to read a whole chapter, to get the full story rather than taking verses out of context. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you and reveal the scriptures to you.
2
Write down what stood out in the passage, what has touched your heart.

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3
Explain creatively what happens as a result of those events in your reading, as many scriptures involve a cause and effect. For instance: Eph. 6:2 - "Honor your father and mother that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth, including how it applies to your own life."
4
Make notes about the meanings and lessons drawn from Bible songs (Psalms). The Psalms will assist you to worship God and sing songs to Him.
5
Write down the concepts/ideas communicated by the inspired scriptures, and use details and thoughtful comments to express your understandings:
6
Think about, and explain in your notes, reasons why the text(s) you are reading are especially "profitable"; consider making notes about your knowledge and understanding of concepts such as: ^{[1]
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- doctrine,
- reproof,
- correction,
- instruction in righteousness,
- being perfect (complete),
- being thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
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Community Q&A

Question

Does God love us no matter what we've done?

Community Answer

Yes. Always. God's love is unconditional.
Question

How do I take notes from a Bible?

Community Answer

Highlight words or phrases that really catch your attention or are significant to the passage. Reflect on them once you finish reading that certain text.
Question

How do I keep up with reading my Bible?

Community Answer

Set aside a time every day. For me, I set aside 30 minutes every day specifically for reading the Bible. Then, pick a book of the Bible to read. Philippians, the Gospels, and James are good places to start. Then, make notes in a notebook. Just simple things. Answer these three questions: 1.What do I learn about God from this passage? 2. What do I learn about myself/man from this passage? 3. How can I apply my learning to my life? Pray after your study.
Question

How do I start a journal?

Community Answer

You can buy a nice notebook and each day write the date and a verse that want to meditate on. You can write feelings and thoughts on the Bible and life, you can write prayers, you can dream...