Devotions

So What Did God Say To You Today?

Maybe you should have written it down

Photo by Ben White on Unsplash

Back in the late ’60s, there was a popular theory that we retain 10% of what we hear, 20% of what we read, 30% of what we see and hear, and the list goes on. It was clever but never proven. There was most likely some truth to it, but it has been bandied about as fact.

What I have personally experienced in my life is that when I write things down, there is a much greater probability that they will get remembered.

My phone constantly has reminders and alarms going off every day with things that it has been asked to remember. Siri never forgets anything, but the information has to be given to her first.

When it comes to my time alone with God reading the Bible and seeking to apply it to my life each day, journaling has been a tremendous help. I don’t know how to defend it scientifically; however, it somehow seems to connect some of the dots in my brain.

Maybe it is only because before I write it down, I need to think through the process of what God has said to me in my heart. Regardless, there has been an increase in my retention and understanding of the Scriptures.

If you journal, you don’t need to ever worry about anyone else seeing it; keep it hidden for you and God.

Over the years, you will be able to go back and see how God ministered to your heart at certain times. Maybe you will never look back. That is okay too.
There is no way for me to prove to you that journaling will help you in your devotional life or your walk with God, but I would strongly encourage you to try this discipline for two weeks and see if it will help you focus your mind and retain what God says.

God encourages us to meditate upon God’s Word, not just to merely read it.

Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. (Joshua 1:8, NLT)

The app that I use is called “DayOne.” It has been very helpful to me; however, there are countless journaling apps out there. Some people prefer to use a good old-fashioned notebook and pen.

Just be in God’s Word every day listening for His voice of instruction and discernment, and if you have trouble remembering things — write it down.

So, what did God say to you today? If you are not sure, the next time He speaks to you, try writing it down.