Life has a way of wearing us down. The constant pressures, the burdens we carry, and the inner struggles we battle can make us feel exhausted, lost, and disconnected—not only from others but from God and even ourselves. In these moments, we long for something deeper, something that will not only sustain us but heal us from the inside out.
One of the most powerful and intimate ways to experience God’s presence in a tangible way is through Immanuel Journaling. This simple yet transformative practice allows us to connect with God in a deeply personal way, bringing clarity, healing, and renewal to our hearts, minds, and bodies. If you have been searching for a way to experience God's presence, hear His voice, and receive His peace, this practice may be just what your soul needs.
What is Immanuel Journaling?
Immanuel Journaling is a form of writing prayer developed by Dr. Jim Wilder and Dr. Sungshim Loppnow. It is designed to help us tune into God’s loving presence and receive His perspective on our thoughts, emotions, and circumstances. Unlike traditional journaling, which often involves pouring out our thoughts and waiting for insight, Immanuel Journaling invites us into an interactive dialogue with God, where we learn to listen and respond to His heart.
The name "Immanuel" means "God with us" (Matthew 1:23). This practice is a beautiful reminder that God is always near, always present, and always desiring to walk with us through every moment of life.
Why Immanuel Journaling?
We all have moments when life feels overwhelming. Pain from the past, wounds from relationships, or even simple daily stresses can cloud our ability to see God’s presence in our lives. Immanuel Journaling provides a way to slow down, breathe, and shift our focus to what God sees and feels about us.
It is especially powerful for:
- Processing emotions in a healthy way—instead of suppressing or ignoring them.
- Healing wounds from past experiences by seeing them through God’s loving eyes.
- Breaking free from negative thought patterns that keep us trapped in cycles of fear, shame, or doubt.
- Deepening our relationship with God by learning to recognize His voice more clearly.
- Experiencing peace and joy in the midst of life's uncertainties.
When we begin to see ourselves through the lens of God's love and compassion, our burdens lighten, our hearts heal, and we experience the freedom and restoration that only He can provide.
How to Practice Immanuel Journaling
The beauty of this practice is its simplicity. All you need is a quiet space, a notebook, and a willingness to listen. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
1. Start with Gratitude
Begin your journaling session by thanking God for His presence. Take a deep breath and invite Him to be with you in this moment. Reflect on a few things you are grateful for—this helps to shift your heart into a posture of openness and connection.
2. Write from God's Perspective
This is where the transformation happens. Instead of writing from your own thoughts, you will journal as if God is speaking to you. There are six key prompts that guide this process:
- I see you…
- Imagine God looking at you with eyes of love. What does He see? What is He noticing about your heart and your current situation?
- I hear you…
- God is listening to your deepest thoughts and emotions. What would He say to acknowledge what you’re going through?
- I understand how hard this is for you…
- The Lord is compassionate. He knows your struggles and cares deeply about them. How would He express His understanding of your challenges?
- I am glad to be with you and treat you with tender care…
- God delights in you. No matter what you’re feeling, He is near. What words of comfort and kindness would He speak over you?
- I can do something about what you’re going through…
- The Lord is mighty to save. He is not just a passive listener; He is an active participant in your healing. What does He want to do for you in this moment?
- I want you to remember…
- God often leaves us with a truth to hold onto. What reminder or encouragement does He want you to carry in your heart today?
3. Reflect and Respond
After writing, take a moment to read over what you’ve written. Pay attention to any areas where you sense God’s peace, truth, or love breaking through. You may feel a sense of relief, comfort, or even deep conviction. Respond to God by writing back—thanking Him, asking questions, or simply resting in His presence.
Testimonies of Transformation
Many who have incorporated Immanuel Journaling into their daily spiritual practice have experienced profound breakthroughs in their emotional, mental, and spiritual health. Here are just a few ways this practice has changed lives:
- A woman struggling with anxiety and overwhelm found that journaling helped her recognize God's voice in the midst of her stress. Instead of feeling alone, she began to experience God as a loving Father who was walking with her each step of the way.
- A man dealing with past trauma and pain discovered that through journaling, God was gently uncovering and healing wounds he had buried for years.
- Someone battling negative self-talk started to see themselves through God’s eyes—learning to replace lies with truth, shame with grace, and fear with love.
When we take time to listen to what God says about us instead of the world, our circumstances, or our fears, our hearts begin to heal, and we step into the fullness of the abundant life He has for us.
Making Immanuel Journaling a Habit
Like any spiritual discipline, consistency is key. Consider setting aside 10-15 minutes a day for this practice. Whether in the morning before the day begins or in the evening as a way to unwind, regular Immanuel Journaling can cultivate a deeper connection with God and transform the way you experience His presence.
If you’re feeling distant from God, struggling with inner turmoil, or simply longing for more of His presence in your life, I encourage you to give Immanuel Journaling a try. You may be surprised by how much He has been waiting to speak to your heart.
A Final Encouragement
God longs to speak to you. He delights in you. He is always present, always listening, and always responding with love. The question is—will you make space to hear Him?
If you take the time to journal with Him, you will discover something beautiful: You are never alone. You are deeply loved. And your healing is His delight.
May your journey with Immanuel Journaling lead you into greater intimacy, healing, and freedom as you walk daily with the One who calls you His beloved.
