[Free journaling guide at the end!]
How often do we open our Bibles, read a verse, and check off the “quiet time” box before diving into our day?
It can be easy to get into “checklist” mode – reading a scripture or daily devotional and checking the “good Christian box” as we rush into the day.
We mean well, but sometimes our time with God gets stuck in checklist mode—focused on what we think He wants from us, instead of sitting still long enough to experience what He truly wants for us: a real, life-giving conversation. Checklist mode is what happens when we focus on what God wants FROM us – reading scripture to find the instructions as if reading a manual. Conversations are what happens when we focus on what God wants FOR us, which is to enjoy intimate conversations in fellowship with Him.
When we slow down long enough to move from consuming instruction into having a conversation around His word, scripture becomes real and relevant.
3 Simple Ways to Journal Your Conversations with God
At what I call a Table for Two, journaling becomes more than a ritual—it becomes a conversation.
I’ve learned that I can have 3 different kinds of conversations with Him using His word:
- Proclamation: I speak God’s word from me to Him with commitment, praise, affirmation, or voiced understanding.
- Exhortation: As if God is speaking the words on the page fresh and new – directly to me.
- Conversation: A 2 way dialogue that could just be a back and forth combination of proclamation and exhortation – or sometimes it flows more like a back and forth discussion on specific scripture.
Let’s see this in action! Using James 4:8 AMP as a guide, I’ll share an example of all 3 styles.
“Come close to God [with a contrite heart] and He will come close to you.”
1. Proclamation: Speak to God
In this style, you rewrite the scripture as a personal statement of truth. You’re not just reading His word—you’re declaring it.
- Start with: “I will,” “I am,” “I believe,” “Thank You for…”
- Make it your response to what God has shown you in His Word.
Example:
Here I am, Lord, ready to hear Your word for me. I come to You aware of the grace that makes this conversation possible. Thank You for being near. Speak—I’m listening.
2. Exhortation: Let God Speak to You
This is where it gets deeply personal. You rewrite the scripture as if God is saying it directly to you.
- Use your name in the sentence.
- Imagine the verse is a letter from God, written just for this moment.
Example:
[Your Name], I see you. Come close. You are welcome here. My presence is not reserved for the perfect—it’s for the surrendered believer. Sit with Me. I love talking with you.
3. Conversation: A Two-Way Dialogue
This approach blends both proclamation and exhortation. Think of it like a script—your words, His response.
- Ask a question.
- Listen for His answer, grounded in Scripture.
- Write without overthinking. If it contradicts God’s character, scratch it out and try again.
Example: Me: Lord, how can I, with all my flaws, come close to You?
God: [Your Name], I made a way for this moment. My love shown at the cross covers your flaws. I want you near. Come, sit at the table—I’m here.
Me: Okay, Lord. I’m here. Let’s talk.
Encouragement + Practice Tip
Before You Begin…
As you enter into each conversation, set a timer for two minutes and simply breathe in His presence. Sit quietly—no prayers, no requests—just silence with the Spirit.
Download a free Two Minute Time Out Cheat Sheet.
After you journal, read it out loud.
Something powerful happens when you hear your own name alongside God’s promises. Don’t rush. Let the conversation linger. Let His presence settle in.
And if you’re not sure where to begin? Just sit. Be still. Ask Him to speak. Then write.
Some days you might use all three conversation styles. Other days you might start with a question and end with a promise. Let the conversation flow.
A Little Help…
Want to start your own conversation journey?
📥 Download my free “7 Days of Conversations with God” journaling guide and build the habit of making these moments a daily rhythm.
Or simply grab a journal, open your Bible, and pull up a seat!