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Journaling as a Spiritual Practice: Tracing the Lines of Grace to God's Presence
To journal is to trace the lines of grace and find, He is with me after all.Sometimes we feel misplaced. Tender. Threadbare. And in those hollow spaces, we can wonder, Where is God? For over a decade, Allison Byxbe experienced sorrow upon sorrow. As the grief buried her, Allison was desperate for a way to reconnect to God’s presence. Journaling through Scripture became her lifeline to God.Journaling as a Spiritual Practice outlines Allison’s transformative journey from grief and depression to healing and wholeness. The Bible is filled with rich language and pictures that reveal our triune God—living water, bread, a door, a gentle whisper. Journaling through Scripture’s metaphors became her lifeline—a way to process the grief, to make sense of the impossible, and to encounter and then fully live in the presence of God once again.This book guides readers through the spiritual practice of journaling. Each chapter weaves in Allison’s journey, includes journaling examples and prompts, and shows you how to journal. Readers will immediately begin applying what they learn.Are you looking for a fresh way to hear and experience God? Be mended by His mercy? Find shelter beneath His wing? Immerse yourself in Scripture through journaling, and you will find your way back into His presence.
176 pages, Paperback
Published March 3, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I have been a journal writer for over 25 years. Byxbe's book speaks to me in this season of journal writing. Her honest, vulnerable account of coping with her son's diagnosis, coming to terms with it, and with God resonates deeply with me, mother of an adult special needs child myself. I feel seen and validated in my own journey. For that, I am grateful.
It will take a second reading and more journaling for me to fully immerse in journaling through metaphor, Byxbe's unique contribution to my journaling toolbox. But even as I have just begun, I can see that it will take me to new depths in understanding my life and my relationship with God.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. all of my comments and opinions are my own.
It will take a second reading and more journaling for me to fully immerse in journaling through metaphor, Byxbe's unique contribution to my journaling toolbox. But even as I have just begun, I can see that it will take me to new depths in understanding my life and my relationship with God.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. all of my comments and opinions are my own.
May 3, 2026
When Moody offered this book for review, I immediately knew I had to read it—and I’m so glad I did. Journaling as a Spiritual Practice is more than just a guide on how to journal; it’s a beautiful, thought-provoking exploration of how journalling can deepen our connection with God. Allison Byxbe weaves together practical advice with profound spiritual insight, making this book both an encouraging and actionable resource.
One of the things I appreciated most about this book is how Byxbe addresses the common frustrations people face when trying to start or maintain a journalling practice. If you’ve ever felt stuck or uninspired in your journalling, this book offers practical solutions that feel both personal and attainable. Byxbe doesn’t just talk about the "why" of journalling; she dives into the "how," providing real advice on overcoming obstacles, exploring fresh methods, and creating a meaningful practice.
Byxbe also touches on health and personal struggles throughout the book, which could be a tough topic for some readers. Personally, I often struggle with books that delve deeply into health issues, as it can feel overwhelming. But what I found so refreshing about Journalling as a Spiritual Practice is that Byxbe integrates these themes in a way that never feels heavy. She acknowledges the messiness of life—both physical and emotional struggles—without making it feel like a burden. Instead, she reminds readers that it is through our struggles that God’s grace is often most evident.
One of the most powerful parts of the book comes toward the end, where Byxbe reflects on what it truly means to journal as a spiritual practice. She writes about tracing the lines of grace, discovering that God has been present all along, even in the hardest parts of life. Journalling is about finding a home for the misplaced parts of ourselves, about building outposts for our tender places, and stitching patches over the worn spots in our hearts. It’s a practice that helps us hear God’s thoughts, tend to our souls, and slow down to pay attention to His heart.
For anyone who has tried journalling before and found it unhelpful, or those who feel stuck in their spiritual journey, I wholeheartedly recommend this book. Even if you already journal regularly, there are so many fresh insights here that can deepen your practice. Byxbe offers not just new methods but a renewed sense of purpose in journalling—a reminder that this simple act can be a pathway to greater spiritual intimacy and growth.
Overall, Journalling as a Spiritual Practice is a deeply inspiring and encouraging read. It invites you to slow down, reflect, and draw closer to God in a way that feels both personal and transformative. Whether you’re new to journalling or have been doing it for years, this book is sure to inspire and guide you on your spiritual journey.
One of the things I appreciated most about this book is how Byxbe addresses the common frustrations people face when trying to start or maintain a journalling practice. If you’ve ever felt stuck or uninspired in your journalling, this book offers practical solutions that feel both personal and attainable. Byxbe doesn’t just talk about the "why" of journalling; she dives into the "how," providing real advice on overcoming obstacles, exploring fresh methods, and creating a meaningful practice.
Byxbe also touches on health and personal struggles throughout the book, which could be a tough topic for some readers. Personally, I often struggle with books that delve deeply into health issues, as it can feel overwhelming. But what I found so refreshing about Journalling as a Spiritual Practice is that Byxbe integrates these themes in a way that never feels heavy. She acknowledges the messiness of life—both physical and emotional struggles—without making it feel like a burden. Instead, she reminds readers that it is through our struggles that God’s grace is often most evident.
One of the most powerful parts of the book comes toward the end, where Byxbe reflects on what it truly means to journal as a spiritual practice. She writes about tracing the lines of grace, discovering that God has been present all along, even in the hardest parts of life. Journalling is about finding a home for the misplaced parts of ourselves, about building outposts for our tender places, and stitching patches over the worn spots in our hearts. It’s a practice that helps us hear God’s thoughts, tend to our souls, and slow down to pay attention to His heart.
For anyone who has tried journalling before and found it unhelpful, or those who feel stuck in their spiritual journey, I wholeheartedly recommend this book. Even if you already journal regularly, there are so many fresh insights here that can deepen your practice. Byxbe offers not just new methods but a renewed sense of purpose in journalling—a reminder that this simple act can be a pathway to greater spiritual intimacy and growth.
Overall, Journalling as a Spiritual Practice is a deeply inspiring and encouraging read. It invites you to slow down, reflect, and draw closer to God in a way that feels both personal and transformative. Whether you’re new to journalling or have been doing it for years, this book is sure to inspire and guide you on your spiritual journey.
March 10, 2026
When I picked up Journaling as a Spiritual Practice, I did it as a lifelong journal-writer—curious and intrigued. I wondered if it would help explain why I had journaled since I was nine, through the depths and heights of life. It did so much more. Allison's vulnerable, truthful account of her own struggle with God's goodness—and how journaling mapped a path back to faith—moved me deeply. Clearly, articulately, compassionately, she shares how this beautiful practice shaped her life. And how it can shape ours. In particular, her exploration of rich, healing metaphors from the Bible traces a new path. I've used some of her prompts already and am excited to use many more. Cannot recommend this beautiful, well-written gem highly enough!
March 4, 2026
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher; all opinions are my own.
I cannot say enough good things about this book! Allison does a beautiful job of honestly sharing her own story and clearly explaining how to approach journaling for your soul in a both captivating and simple way. She includes prompts at the end of each chapter and they are well written and help you in getting to know yourself and God better and deeper. This book helps you create a safe space through journaling to wrestle with your hard questions. It is the sort of book I am already planning to read a second time!
I cannot say enough good things about this book! Allison does a beautiful job of honestly sharing her own story and clearly explaining how to approach journaling for your soul in a both captivating and simple way. She includes prompts at the end of each chapter and they are well written and help you in getting to know yourself and God better and deeper. This book helps you create a safe space through journaling to wrestle with your hard questions. It is the sort of book I am already planning to read a second time!
March 4, 2026
Our lives are stories—written by God. Journalling is an embodied way of capturing what God is saying. Through the lens of metaphor, Byxbe helps readers understand the spokeness of their lives. Through the pain and beauty of her story (along with a lot of very practical and learned journalling advice) she can help you process yours. This book is a great tool for those who want to know both God and themselves more. I’m thankful to have received a complimentary copy from the publisher; all opinions are my own.
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February 24, 2026I found “Journaling as a Spiritual Practice” to be a practical guide if you are interested in starting to journal or in learning new approaches. It also outlined the benefits. It had much relevant information pulled from many sources into one easy to read and understand book.
There was plenty of encouragement and practical tips along the way. I enjoyed doing the journaling prompts at the end of each chapter.
I was blessed to receive a complimentary copy ahead of time so I could tell you all about it, but all opinions remain my own:)
There was plenty of encouragement and practical tips along the way. I enjoyed doing the journaling prompts at the end of each chapter.
I was blessed to receive a complimentary copy ahead of time so I could tell you all about it, but all opinions remain my own:)
March 24, 2026
In “Journaling as a Spiritual Practice” Allison Byxbe invites us into a practice of “tracing the lines of grace to God’s presence,” where we can find a safe place to record and reflect on the journey of our souls. Pairing God’s Word alongside journaling and life’s pains and challenges alongside God’s grace, readers will discover “God with us” and the “spiritual growth possible when you bring journaling and Scripture's metaphors together.”
Pointing readers to how journaling not only improves stress levels, emotional health, and spiritual health, Allison inspires us to join her in an intentional practice of journaling that—for her—became a “lifeline to God.” As she journaled, she found God meeting her in her grief and trials beyond what she could have ever expected, and she shares the wisdom gleaned in this journey with others.
As someone who started journaling regularly again in the past two years, I could be biased, but with its encouraging words and practical guidance, I found myself stopping to journal and reflect within the first few chapters. Allison’s honesty as she also shared her story touched my own soul, mirroring some similar trials I myself face daily. I found this book to be a treasure and encouragement.
Highlights:
“Every time I turn to Him, my heart takes on more of the shape of Him. Every time I hear the Holy Spirit's whisper, my soul more beautifully reflects Him. Every time I trace a line of His grace in my story, His love makes a home more deeply in the depths of who I am.”
“Writing is a practice that cultivates hope and healing within us. Journaling helps us connect to the God who calls Himself the Word.”
“God's practice is that of turning expectations upside down and inside out. What others feel only pity for, God whispers, ‘I'm here. I'm with you. And this is good.’”
“Your journal should be a place of rest and renewal, not another place where you feel pressured to perform or produce.”
“God outside of time is not hurried or rushed. In His infinite capacity, He has all the time in the world for us.”
Thank you to the publisher for gifting me a copy of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily and was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Pointing readers to how journaling not only improves stress levels, emotional health, and spiritual health, Allison inspires us to join her in an intentional practice of journaling that—for her—became a “lifeline to God.” As she journaled, she found God meeting her in her grief and trials beyond what she could have ever expected, and she shares the wisdom gleaned in this journey with others.
As someone who started journaling regularly again in the past two years, I could be biased, but with its encouraging words and practical guidance, I found myself stopping to journal and reflect within the first few chapters. Allison’s honesty as she also shared her story touched my own soul, mirroring some similar trials I myself face daily. I found this book to be a treasure and encouragement.
Highlights:
“Every time I turn to Him, my heart takes on more of the shape of Him. Every time I hear the Holy Spirit's whisper, my soul more beautifully reflects Him. Every time I trace a line of His grace in my story, His love makes a home more deeply in the depths of who I am.”
“Writing is a practice that cultivates hope and healing within us. Journaling helps us connect to the God who calls Himself the Word.”
“God's practice is that of turning expectations upside down and inside out. What others feel only pity for, God whispers, ‘I'm here. I'm with you. And this is good.’”
“Your journal should be a place of rest and renewal, not another place where you feel pressured to perform or produce.”
“God outside of time is not hurried or rushed. In His infinite capacity, He has all the time in the world for us.”
Thank you to the publisher for gifting me a copy of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily and was not required to leave a positive review. All opinions are my own.
March 2, 2026
As a Spiritual Director, pastor, counselor and one who has been journaling for over 30 years, I found this book to be inspirational, encouraging, meaningful, and refreshing to me during a challenging transitional season of my life. My journaling time became sporadic as I attempted to make sense of my new life.
Allison invites us to use the metaphors in scripture to help us see things from a different perspective. It was a unique and powerful experience for me. The metaphor describing what happens when new wine is poured into old wineskins was made more clear to me in my current situation. I was able to see, by reading the author's own experience with this metaphor, that I was attempting to live my past life in my new location, causing me to feel untethered, unfocused, and confused. The author's experience helped me to see the invitation that God had for me to experience life in a new way instead of carrying the old way of life into this new season.
This book is thoughtfully written from the author's heart and experience. The journaling prompts at the end of each chapter are beautifully structured and allow for deeper connection to self and to God.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves to journal, is in a journaling slump, or is desiring to begin journaling as a means to draw closer to God, sense God's presence in their lives, and to open themselves to allow God into the places and spaces that they find themselves.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher; all opinions are my own.
Allison invites us to use the metaphors in scripture to help us see things from a different perspective. It was a unique and powerful experience for me. The metaphor describing what happens when new wine is poured into old wineskins was made more clear to me in my current situation. I was able to see, by reading the author's own experience with this metaphor, that I was attempting to live my past life in my new location, causing me to feel untethered, unfocused, and confused. The author's experience helped me to see the invitation that God had for me to experience life in a new way instead of carrying the old way of life into this new season.
This book is thoughtfully written from the author's heart and experience. The journaling prompts at the end of each chapter are beautifully structured and allow for deeper connection to self and to God.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves to journal, is in a journaling slump, or is desiring to begin journaling as a means to draw closer to God, sense God's presence in their lives, and to open themselves to allow God into the places and spaces that they find themselves.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher; all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Is it possible to find God's presence in bewildering places of lost dreams and upending realities?"
Allison Byxbe doesn't write a how-to book for journaling, as much as an invitation & a story of her own place of pain and longing and the way the Lord met her in the thick of it. This gentle guide surprised me by how personal and tender it was, with the prompts at the end of each chapter feeling like a true invitation instead of any kind of pressure to put pen to paper. The goal is not merely to journal, but to experience more of God's presence.
I especially loved the chapter on metaphor and what it can look like to invite the Lord to help you experience his presence through the tangible, familiar things to us.
"The power of metaphor lies in how simple, everyday things that we can see and touch help us understand the God we cannot yet see. Metaphors make the presence of God tangible and accessible to us….
If our mental maps and narrative can be transformed by Scripture’s metaphors of God’s presence, then we can be led to the green pastures and quiet waters of God’s good presence even in our pain."
This is a book of depth and gentleness, coming alongside your own places of pain, as Allison goes first with her own stories of heartache, buried dreams and disappointment. This is a rich resource, and I'm so grateful to have been given the chance to read it.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for my review. My opinion is my own.
Allison Byxbe doesn't write a how-to book for journaling, as much as an invitation & a story of her own place of pain and longing and the way the Lord met her in the thick of it. This gentle guide surprised me by how personal and tender it was, with the prompts at the end of each chapter feeling like a true invitation instead of any kind of pressure to put pen to paper. The goal is not merely to journal, but to experience more of God's presence.
I especially loved the chapter on metaphor and what it can look like to invite the Lord to help you experience his presence through the tangible, familiar things to us.
"The power of metaphor lies in how simple, everyday things that we can see and touch help us understand the God we cannot yet see. Metaphors make the presence of God tangible and accessible to us….
If our mental maps and narrative can be transformed by Scripture’s metaphors of God’s presence, then we can be led to the green pastures and quiet waters of God’s good presence even in our pain."
This is a book of depth and gentleness, coming alongside your own places of pain, as Allison goes first with her own stories of heartache, buried dreams and disappointment. This is a rich resource, and I'm so grateful to have been given the chance to read it.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for my review. My opinion is my own.
March 9, 2026
This was such a helpful book! You can tell Allison is a teacher who loves sharing her knowledge to help others grow in their understanding of metaphors and how they can help us process the hard things in our lives. I appreciated her vulnerability in sharing her story and the deep valleys she has walked through. This quote particularly resonated with me…In referencing the disciples she asks “Could they own their own disappointment, heartbreak, incredulity, the very real sense that maybe God got this ending wrong? Call it what it was instead of airbrushing it with some silver lining pseudo gospel?” So often the church has plastered over the difficult places with shiny platitudes and Allison invites us to look deeper and to do that through journaling. Each chapter ends with prompts that were thought provoking and so helpful to those of us who want to be more intentional and consistent in journaling. I highly recommend this book to those who want to add journaling to their spiritual practice.
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
“Have you tried writing it down?”
Byxbe graciously welcomes you into her story in a way that coaxes the reader to share their own as well. This book is a comfortable read, rich with grace, honesty, and tangible help for those wrestling with life. Structured with journal prompts throughout, Byxbe has managed to bridge the gap between those who already adore journaling and the written word with those who may be intimidated with the thought of a blank page. Her poetic blending of words makes stories vivid and faith an adventure that we crave.
Ever find yourself thinking, "Why am I going through this? What is God doing?" This read is more like a friend you can sit down to coffee with and find a moment's peace. Eloquent yet approachable, 'Journaling as a Spiritual Practice' is a book I would recommend for everyone.
Buy one for yourself and two to gift!
(I received a complimentary copy from the publisher; all opinions are my own.)
Byxbe graciously welcomes you into her story in a way that coaxes the reader to share their own as well. This book is a comfortable read, rich with grace, honesty, and tangible help for those wrestling with life. Structured with journal prompts throughout, Byxbe has managed to bridge the gap between those who already adore journaling and the written word with those who may be intimidated with the thought of a blank page. Her poetic blending of words makes stories vivid and faith an adventure that we crave.
Ever find yourself thinking, "Why am I going through this? What is God doing?" This read is more like a friend you can sit down to coffee with and find a moment's peace. Eloquent yet approachable, 'Journaling as a Spiritual Practice' is a book I would recommend for everyone.
Buy one for yourself and two to gift!
(I received a complimentary copy from the publisher; all opinions are my own.)
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I’ve had the opportunity to work with Allison in person as she helped me move from being a non-journaler to seeing the purpose and joy in it! I’ve told so many people about how much journaling has helped me process all that spins around me and now I am thrilled that she had written a book so that I can share that with others! She beautifully shares her story of grace and how God worked in her life. She shares the purpose and power that journaling has as we look back (and forward). One of my favorite parts is that each chapter ends with journaling prompts. Just as she masterfully guides journaling in person, she also does that through the pages of her book. So even if you have no idea where to start, she will help you take a dip in to be able to write and reflect on the story of grace in our own lives!
*I was given an advanced copy by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
*I was given an advanced copy by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
March 5, 2026
In Journaling as a Spiritual Practice, Allison walks us through her own personal story as she teaches about Biblical metaphor and journaling. Each chapter is full of wisdom and warmth and ends with three journaling prompts that offer an invitation to grow closer to God and yourself. As someone who has journaled with Allison in her online spaces, I can say that reading this book feels like having Allison in the room with you giving gentle guidance and encouragement. I often leave a journaling session feeling closer to God and inspired to write a poem, something I love to do. I highly recommend Journaling as a Spiritual Practice.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher; all opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher; all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Few books rearrange the furniture of your mind, heart, and soul.
This one did something even quieter and more astonishing. It met me in the place where I had already decided journaling was unnecessary, unimportant, maybe even self-indulgent. I carried tidy objections: I have nothing worth saying. Why document what God already knows? Why create a written witness to my shortcomings? Why spend time pressing ink into paper when there are more “productive” ways to serve?
Every single page dismantled those defenses with grace.
Allison Byxbe opens the door and steps through first. What unfolds is reorientation. Journaling becomes less about recording events and feelings and more, so much more, about tracing God’s greatness and nearness through metaphor, Scripture, memory, and longing. The page shifts from performance to presence. Journaling becomes a response to God’s revealed truth in His written Word … never a search for something new.
The metaphors altered something deep within me. Ordinary images became holy corridors. Suddenly, journaling felt less like documenting my spiritual temperature and more like kneeling in a field of living symbols where God speaks through texture, weather, landscape, and light. Ink turned into listening. Always, always in-tune and filtered through His Word.
What moved me most was the invitation to seek God for who He is. Not for provision. Not for outcomes. Not for rescue. For His character. His sovereignty. His beauty. His holiness. To sit with Him. The practice becomes an act of worship, a slow study of His nature written in the margins and substance of my story.
The prompts are thoughtful and spacious. The practical guidance is grounded and accessible. The psychological wisdom is woven carefully into theological depth. Yet the true gift is joy. Real, bright, almost childlike joy at the thought of meeting God on the page.
I crawled into these pages hesitant. I rose with worship in my hands and a readiness to write. This is so much more than a guide.
It is an invitation to sit in God’s presence and trace His sovereign hand line by line.
And I am devoted to hope — hope rooted in meeting the only one true living God on the page. The all-powerful, ever-present, all-knowing God is the source and substance of every word.
I received a digital advance copy of this book from the author. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on biblical faithfulness, clarity of message, and the author’s ability to illuminate Scripture with accuracy and affection for Christ, ensuring transparency and trustworthy reflection of the book’s spiritual depth and value.
This one did something even quieter and more astonishing. It met me in the place where I had already decided journaling was unnecessary, unimportant, maybe even self-indulgent. I carried tidy objections: I have nothing worth saying. Why document what God already knows? Why create a written witness to my shortcomings? Why spend time pressing ink into paper when there are more “productive” ways to serve?
Every single page dismantled those defenses with grace.
Allison Byxbe opens the door and steps through first. What unfolds is reorientation. Journaling becomes less about recording events and feelings and more, so much more, about tracing God’s greatness and nearness through metaphor, Scripture, memory, and longing. The page shifts from performance to presence. Journaling becomes a response to God’s revealed truth in His written Word … never a search for something new.
The metaphors altered something deep within me. Ordinary images became holy corridors. Suddenly, journaling felt less like documenting my spiritual temperature and more like kneeling in a field of living symbols where God speaks through texture, weather, landscape, and light. Ink turned into listening. Always, always in-tune and filtered through His Word.
What moved me most was the invitation to seek God for who He is. Not for provision. Not for outcomes. Not for rescue. For His character. His sovereignty. His beauty. His holiness. To sit with Him. The practice becomes an act of worship, a slow study of His nature written in the margins and substance of my story.
The prompts are thoughtful and spacious. The practical guidance is grounded and accessible. The psychological wisdom is woven carefully into theological depth. Yet the true gift is joy. Real, bright, almost childlike joy at the thought of meeting God on the page.
I crawled into these pages hesitant. I rose with worship in my hands and a readiness to write. This is so much more than a guide.
It is an invitation to sit in God’s presence and trace His sovereign hand line by line.
And I am devoted to hope — hope rooted in meeting the only one true living God on the page. The all-powerful, ever-present, all-knowing God is the source and substance of every word.
I received a digital advance copy of this book from the author. I am not required to write a positive review nor paid to do so. This is my honest and unbiased review. My thoughts and opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on biblical faithfulness, clarity of message, and the author’s ability to illuminate Scripture with accuracy and affection for Christ, ensuring transparency and trustworthy reflection of the book’s spiritual depth and value.
March 4, 2026
Review of advanced copy received from Publisher
Journaling as a Spiritual Practice is a book that helped me look at and journal about situations in my life that I had neatly tucked away in a box and chose not to unpack it. Allison gently leads you through the process of unpacking the box by sharing her personal experiences, journal prompts, and scripture. As I journaled through the book, I was able to process situations while seeing the Lord’s hand in my life. Journaling as a Spiritual Practice has been a gift and I think it will be a gift for you too!
Journaling as a Spiritual Practice is a book that helped me look at and journal about situations in my life that I had neatly tucked away in a box and chose not to unpack it. Allison gently leads you through the process of unpacking the box by sharing her personal experiences, journal prompts, and scripture. As I journaled through the book, I was able to process situations while seeing the Lord’s hand in my life. Journaling as a Spiritual Practice has been a gift and I think it will be a gift for you too!
March 16, 2026
Allison is such a gifted communicator, and it’s exciting to see her passion for putting pen to paper come to life in her beautiful book, Journaling as a Spiritual Practice: Tracing the Lines of Grace to God’s Presence. Blending her personal journey with the practice of journaling, Allison creates something truly meaningful through inviting readers to slow down, reflect, and recognize God’s presence in their everyday lives.
This book will not only encourage you in your own story but also gently guide you as you begin (or deepen) your own journaling practice through thoughtful prompts and practical examples. Beautifully written and deeply inspiring.
This book will not only encourage you in your own story but also gently guide you as you begin (or deepen) your own journaling practice through thoughtful prompts and practical examples. Beautifully written and deeply inspiring.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a lovely guide to using journal writing as a spiritual practice in our lives. The chapters are easy to read and gently lay out some of the author's story. I enjoyed reading what she shared.
Each chapter has exercises at the end to do. I confess I didn't do most of them yet, but that doesn't mean I won't. I do keep a journal, so this is not brand new for me.
Her questions are straightforward and good guidance for growing in the area of journaling.
Thank you to Allison Byxbe for my ARC. The review is my own.
Each chapter has exercises at the end to do. I confess I didn't do most of them yet, but that doesn't mean I won't. I do keep a journal, so this is not brand new for me.
Her questions are straightforward and good guidance for growing in the area of journaling.
Thank you to Allison Byxbe for my ARC. The review is my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
What a beautiful gift Allison offers through her vulnerability and insight in these pages. Reading this guide and thinking through the journal prompts at the end of each chapter felt like sitting with a dear friend as she shared her heart and experiences, making me brave enough to tap into my own. Packed with so much truth, grace, and encouragement, I have no doubt this book will be a balm and inspiration to anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of and walk with God through journaling.
March 16, 2026
When your story doesn’t quite align with your expectations or desires, journaling can be a powerful and meaningful step toward healing and growing closer to Jesus, even amid pain and sorrow.
In Journaling as a Spiritual Practice, Allison provides a guide that balances practicality with deep compassion, sharing personal stories of her own experiences and pain, along with Biblical insights on how journaling can “deepen and sustain” our relationship with God. Whether you're just beginning or have been journaling for years, this book is an incredibly helpful companion!
Each chapter concludes with prompts designed to inspire your journaling sessions and offers practical advice for building consistency and intentionality in your journaling journey.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. My review reflects my honest opinion.
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