The H.E.A.R. method of journaling:

The H.E.A.R. journaling method promotes reading the Bible with a life-transforming purpose. No longer will your focus be on checking off the boxes on your daily reading schedule; your purpose will instead be to read in order to understand and respond to God’s Word.

The acronym H.E.A.R. stands for Highlight, Explain, Apply, and Respond. Each of these four steps contributes to creating an atmosphere to hear God speak.
 

Highlight

As you read, what verse or passage do you believe God is speaking to you?  Write that down.

Explain

Simply explain what that verse or passage is saying.

Apply

How does this passage apply to your life today?

Respond

What is your response to what God has shown you in His Word today?
 
 

Notice that all of the words in the HEAR Journal formula are action words: Highlight, Explain, Apply, and Respond. God does not want us to sit back and wait for Him to drop some truth into our laps. Instead of waiting passively, God desires that we actively pursue Him.