The Power of Taking Notes in Church
Have you ever sat through a powerful sermon, felt deeply inspired… and then couldn’t remember much of it by Wednesday? If you answered yes, you are not alone.
Church is a place where we’re fed spiritually — challenged, encouraged, and equipped. But just like hearing a great lecture or reading a thought-provoking book, what we retain often depends on how engaged we are. That’s where note-taking comes in. And no, it’s not just for students or sermon nerds — it’s a tool for spiritual growth that anyone can use.
1. Note-Taking Helps You Stay Engaged
Let’s be honest: our attention spans aren’t what they used to be. Between buzzing phones, wandering thoughts, and the occasional sleepy Sunday, it’s easy to mentally drift during the message. Writing things down keeps your mind alert and your heart tuned in. It’s a simple act of intention — a way of saying, “I’m here to listen and learn.”
2. You Create a Personal Spiritual Archive
Taking notes over time becomes a beautiful record of your spiritual journey. You’ll look back months or years later and see what God was teaching you — what prayers were answered, what truths kept repeating, how your understanding grew. It’s like a personal journal of faith, with moments you may have otherwise forgotten.
3. Notes Make Truth Stick
Studies show we retain far more information when we write it down. Why should sermons be any different? When you jot down Scripture references, key points, or personal takeaways, you’re reinforcing truth in your memory. And later, when you revisit your notes, you’re giving the Holy Spirit another opportunity to deepen those insights.
4. It Doesn’t Have to Be Fancy
Don’t overthink it. Note-taking isn’t about having perfect handwriting, color-coded pages, or elaborate outlines (though if that’s your style, go for it!). Use what works for you — a journal, a church bulletin, your phone, or a dedicated app. You can summarize key points, write down questions, or even sketch out illustrations. The point is to capture what God is showing you.
If you desire a guided approach to note taking then this journal can provided you with a great space to take your note taking to the next level. https://amzn.to/4lKmpzd
5. Note-Taking Encourages Reflection Beyond Sunday
One of the dangers of modern church life is “Sunday-only spirituality.” We hear the Word, we feel convicted, and then life happens. Notes help bridge that gap. They give you something to return to during the week — in your devotional time, small group, or even in conversations with others. They extend the sermon’s impact far beyond the church walls.
Final Thoughts: Be a Hearer AND a Doer
James 1:22 says, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” Taking notes is one small way we shift from passive listening to active discipleship. It’s a practical tool with spiritual impact.
So next Sunday, grab a pen or open a notes app. Not because you have to — but because you want to lean in, grow deeper, and remember the truths that are shaping your life. You might be surprised how much it transforms your experience of church.
A. P. Moultrie