The Bible, the pen, and the notebook. I know you are wondering what one has to do with the other, but these are becoming overlooked in a world drowning in apps, dashboards, and various “productivity systems.” Yet this trio is timeless.
It goes far deeper than simply looking up a verse in your Bible, jotting it down with your pen, or referencing Scripture during a sermon while taking notes in your notepad. This trio endures because it not only helps you grow but also keeps you grounded and helps you act on what you believe needs to be done. This trio has carried people through centuries and across cultures. In an age where we are smothered by technology, this simple combination can still cut through the digital noise and keep us fixed on our purpose.
The Bible: A Source of Grounding
Let’s start with the Bible. Whether someone approaches the Bible spiritually, philosophically, or simply as literature, it has been a foundational resource for millions of people for thousands of years. It reminds us of our purpose, shapes our character, and calls us to put on qualities like patience, humility, love, and integrity. Its stories and teachings remind us to reflect on our own lives to ensure that our daily plans align with God’s plans for us.
Beyond being a guide for living, the Bible anchors the spirit within us. Our thoughts, motives, and identity in Christ are kept steady by the Holy Spirit within us, so that our outer person is a true reflection of our inner being.
The Pen: The Bridge Builder
I call the pen the bridge builder because it makes it easy for man to transfer history from one generation to another. To share stories and express feelings of love, joy, and pain, which opens people’s hearts and minds. The powerful written words of Paul, Peter, and others have caused people to act and give their lives to Christ.
A pen is unassumingly powerful in leading someone to act. It shows intent and commitment. When we sign our name to a lease, that means we intend to occupy a space for a certain period of time. When we establish written goals for the New Year, there is an intent to fulfill what was written. When we make a list, the intent is to do, buy, or accomplish what is on that list. Ink on paper still feels more real to me than pixels on a screen, especially in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Whereas the Bible is our guide for living out our daily life, the pen is a tool of intention. It entices you to write your words, your goals, your priorities, your lists, etc.
The Notebook: The External Brain
My notebooks are an extension of my brain, literally. It holds more than I could ever remember on my own. I’ve gone through so many of them that I’ve even given them a nickname: my companion notebooks. A notepad or spiral notebook really is the simplest productivity system ever created, and somehow still the most cost-effective. It gives you a place to unload your mind, a record of your thinking, and it’s a space free from distractions. No notifications. No alerts. No Apps. No Links. No spam. No Page Not Found. Just you and your thoughts.
Why is the trio so timeless…
Your Bible contains the values you hold dear. Your pen captures the thoughts that rise from those values, whether they come from Scripture, reflection, or the world around you. Your notepad turns those thoughts into intentional action, giving you a place to act on what you’ve written and live it out with purpose.
Productivity has never been only about efficiency; alignment carries just as much weight. Yes, efficiency is important, but when your values, your thoughts, and your actions line up, you naturally become more productive and more balanced.
Together, these three tools create a powerful loop:
Reflect on the Word → Clarify your thoughts → Act with intent → Reflect again.
Your Call to Order…
Try using the Trio tools this week. Before the house wakes up, spend a few short minutes in your Bible. Read a short passage in Psalms or Proverbs that reminds you of who you want to be and how you should be, and let that set the tone for the rest of your day.
In between the meetings or after school drop‑off, if your mind is buzzing with ideas, worries, and tasks, don’t allow the mental clutter to build up, grab your pen and notebook, and write about:
- What’s weighing on you?
- What actually needs to get done today?
- What do I need to let go of?
At night, take glances back at your notebook. See what you have accomplished, look at what needs to roll over, and think about what God is nudging you to do. Then reflect and prepare to begin a new day tomorrow.
Power Verse
“In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.” ~ Psalm 5:3
