I’m always on the lookout for ways to be more self-aware, especially when it helps me grow spiritually, I can’t explain why. That’s just me.

About three weeks I had an idea for a new section to my bullet journal to help me grow in my relationship with God. I call it “Ask God.” In the top right corner of my week’s page I write two words—“Asking God.” Under this title I write the question on my heart for the week. Just the short process of writing those two words–“Asking God” helps me identify whatever is floating in my brain and haunting me. It helps me clarify what I need to talk to God about—what questions, uncertainties, or decisions to be made.

Questions like . . .

~Why am I not feeling as perky as usual, God?

~Should I teach a Bible study next semester?

~How do I get organized for Christmas?

Or maybe just. . .

~God, what do I need to do next?

~What do I need to know that I don’t know?

After I write the question I pray about it and let it marinate with God. I don’t try to force an answer. I wait to see how God responds in His time. I am reminded of Habakkuk 2:1, “I will stand at my watch and station myself on the ramparts; I will look to see what He will say to me. . “

I ask the question, then wait.

And God wants us to ask for wisdom. James 1:5 tells us so–“But if anyone is deficient in wisdom, he should ask God, Who gives to all generously and without reprimand, and it will be given to him.” Deficient in wisdom? Yep, that’s me. God will generously give me all I need for the life He has given me to live.

So far is that God answers my questions within the week. He answers in nudges, in encouragement or challenges from others, through His Word, through authors and pastors. It’s almost always (if not always) a quiet voice. No banner in the sky or five-year plans. Just a nudge toward a next right thing. Or maybe an assurance that He is with me and working on my behalf in whatever difficult situation I find myself.

I know God won’t t always answer my questions within a week. But by being intentional—asking the question and then noticing when the answer comes—I am more often experiencing God’s faithfulness and involvement in my life.

My faith is strengthened.

My relationship with God is deepened.

I am becoming more the person He created me to be because I hear His voice and direction.

It’s been a pretty powerful discipline.

Brenda Garrison is an author and speaker who empowers women with the confidence to live their calling. Brenda is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Ministry Leadership with a Concentration in Women’s Ministry at Moody Bible Institute. She and her husband, Gene, are the parents of three young adult daughters and live near Metamora, IL.