5 Simple Steps for a Prayer Journal (That Actually Work During Busy Seasons)

Volleyball and driver’s ed have wrapped up for our 14-year-old, and the 8-year-old is already planning all kinds of fun for her 9th birthday. She’s also excited to start basketball and squeeze in a few swim lessons before winter hits. Deer hunting starts this weekend, and I’m heading off on a girls’ weekend. State volleyball is happening here in Minnesota, and the North Dakota volleyball tournament kicks off next weekend — we’re hoping to cheer on my niece’s team at state in a couple of weeks.

Before we know it, Thanksgiving will be here… and then it’s December.

Funny how I thought life would slow down after our busy fall! The reality is, unless you’re at one of my kids’ events or happen to work with me, I probably haven’t seen you in person. These days, I’m keeping up with friends and family through text, Messenger, and the occasional Snap. It’s not quite the same as face-to-face connection, but it helps me know how to pray for my people.

Over the years, my prayer journal has gone through many phases. I used to keep a running list of every need and request, but it started to feel like I was heading into a business meeting with God — instead of having a conversation with a friend. So, I’ve made a few changes that have helped bring peace, purpose, and connection back into my prayer life.

Here’s my current method — Five simple steps for a prayer journal that actually work in a busy season of life:

1. Pray for Family Every Day

No matter how full the schedule gets, I start with my family. These are the people God has entrusted to me, and praying for them keeps me connected. Some days it’s specific (a test, a game, a tough day at work), and some days it’s simply for peace, protection, and a positive attitude (I do have a teenager).

2. Use Daily Prayer Themes

Having a focus for each day keeps my prayers from feeling overwhelming. For example:

• Monday: Co-workers and workplace needs

• Tuesday: Those who have lost loved ones

• Wednesday: My students and their families

• Thursday: College students and young adults

• Friday: Friends who are going through transitions

• Weekend: Rest and gratitude

This routine brings structure, but it also reminds me that God’s work happens everywhere — in schools, offices, dorms, and homes.

3. Keep an Emergency List

These are the people or situations that need prayer right now. Whether it’s health concerns, relationship struggles, or unexpected crises — they go on the “urgent” list. I pray for them daily until the need changes.

4. Don’t Forget Gratitude

My gratitude list has now passed 600 entries — and it keeps growing. Gratitude shifts everything. Even on hard days, writing down those little gifts from God reminds me that He is in the details.

5. Leave Space for Stillness

Some days I set the lists aside and simply sit with God. No agenda. No words. Just being still in His presence. That’s often when I feel the most peace — when prayer becomes less about doing and more about being.

Prayer doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. It’s simply staying connected to the One who holds us together when life feels like a blur of schedules, school drop-offs, and late-night laundry.

Want more short devotionals to inspire your week? Check out Make Monday Matter here.