Briefly, a Bible study journal is a notebook in which you record your thoughts on Bible verses and answers to the Discussion Questions in the JesusWalk Bible Study Series.

The first question is: Why should you keep a journal? Let me share some of the benefits:

There are many kinds of journals. A diary is a kind of journal in which you write down your inmost thoughts. But a Bible study journal focuses on learning from what you are reading and studying in Scripture. There is no single "right" way to journal. Your journal will be different from another disciple's -- because God has made you unique.

Here's one approach to starting a physical Bible study journal:

How about an electronic journal? That's perfectly fine, if it fits your workflow. I've used both written and electronic forms to write down my thoughts. These days I use a keyboard; I'm just not a two-thumb typing whiz on a cell phone. You want to stay in step with your thoughts. Ultimately, however, whatever works for you -- do it consistently.

You'll find a Bible study journal a blessing. At the conclusion of a Bible study, you may be proud of yourself for completing all the answers. Well done! But the value of this kind of journal isn't as a reference for later -- though you might revisit it years from now. The greatest value is that it helps you learn and apply God's word through thoughtful engagement and personal reflection.

Keeping some kind of journal is a spiritual discipline that will bring you many rewards as a maturing disciple of our Lord.