On the first day of my first real Engineering course in college, my professor gave a lecture on how to take notes, why you should only use ink, how you should study the table of contents, and many other expectations of his class.
Ok, there were some things that were a little over the top but looking back he was spot on with a lot of things.
The best thing he shared with us was how to take notes for what matters.
He shared a conversation he had with one of his kids. His kid asked “do you think church is important?”. Without hesitation his answer was yes. Then he asked, “why don’t you take notes in church?”.
He shared how his life was impacted by his child in that moment. He shared that the most important thing he did during his week deserved his utmost attention and dedication.
Of course he went on to share how important his class was and that taking notes is critical for survival. Lol
Anyway, I was utterly shocked that he shared this story. It was an aside in the class but it really was more than that to me.
I had already been taking notes in church at that time but his story was a stark reminder that our priorities are reflected by our actions. If we don’t act like church is the most important thing we “do” all week, then is it?
“For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the Lord, and to do it and to teach his statutes and rules in Israel.”
Ezra 7:10
Here are four reasons why you should take some paper and your favorite pen to church every Sunday.
1) We should study to show that we dedicated and diligent.
“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who doesn’t need to be ashamed, correctly teaching the word of truth.”
2 Timothy 2:15
2) We want to learn.
“Make Your ways known to me, Lord; teach me Your paths. Guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; I wait for You all day long.”
Psalms 25:4-5
3) We want to repeat or share what we have learned.
“but honor the Messiah as Lord in your hearts. Always be ready to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.”
1 Peter 3:15
4) We want the next generation to learn from us.
“Teach them to your children, talking about them when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”
Deuteronomy 11:19
Do you take notes in church? What impact has this had on you and your spiritual life?
Great post! I’ve always taken notes, and love reading over them again, even years later.
Yes!! They are a gift to have!
I am in the habit of taking notes in Church so I can reference bible verses and topics later. It also helps me remember the message better. Thanks for sharing!
I love using my notes for studying later. It helps the service stay with me all week.
Thank you for sharing this!
I always take notes in church. It helps me retain the information that the pastor is speaking. And I love being able to go back and reread what I wrote. Sometimes it gives me ideas for blog posts or it is research for a blog post. Or it helps in a trial months or years after the service.
I love the perspective you have on taking notes and the verses to back it up!
I hear ya. I can’t remember anything these days. I love how writing helps etch things in my memory for the times I need them most.
Great idea! I don’t usually take notes in church. I should! I do take notes during the lecture portion of the Bible Study I attend. I use an Inductive Study Bible which has large margins so I write directly into my Bible. That way they are already there the next time I look at the passage.
That’s a great place for some notes. You’ll enjoy the treasures that come from this activity.
I need to make a habit of doing this! Thanks for sharing! 🙂
It’s definitely worth while!!!