Finding Comfort and Purpose: Good Reads and Biblical Journaling for Empty Nesters

When the nest empties and your children move out, it can feel like an unfamiliar and sometimes lonely season. As an empty nester myself, I’ve had moments where I wasn’t sure how to fill the quiet. The transition can bring an overwhelming sense of loss and uncertainty about your next chapter. But in the midst of this new season, I’ve found immense comfort and purpose through reading and journaling—especially focusing on biblical reads.

Diving into scripture and reflective books has not only helped me grow spiritually, but it’s also provided a space to process my emotions, lean into God’s promises, and find renewed purpose. Journaling alongside my readings has been transformative, allowing me to capture what God is speaking into my heart during this time.

If you’re an empty nester looking for peace and clarity, biblical readings and journaling can be a powerful tool to rediscover joy and strength in this new phase of life.

Biblical Reads to Ground You in Faith

The Bible is filled with stories of change, growth, and finding purpose in new seasons of life. As empty nesters, we can draw inspiration from these passages to guide us as we navigate this next chapter. I’ve found that certain books of the Bible and other Christian reads provide deep encouragement and wisdom that I can apply to my own journey.

Here are a few of my favorite biblical reads that have helped me:

• Psalms: The Psalms are filled with heartfelt prayers and praises, which have been a great comfort to me. When I feel overwhelmed or uncertain, reading David’s expressions of trust in God gives me peace.
• Ecclesiastes: This book explores the seasons of life, reminding us that there is a time for everything. It helps put things in perspective and reminds us that even the empty nest is part of God’s plan.
• Proverbs 31: As women, this passage is a beautiful reminder of how our worth doesn’t change with life’s transitions. We are still capable, still strong, and still worthy of God’s love and purpose, regardless of whether our children are at home.

Beyond scripture, I’ve also found strength in books specifically written for women going through the empty nest transition. Books like “The Power of a Praying Woman” by Stormie Omartian and “Empty Nest, Full Life” by Jill Savage are excellent companions that blend practical advice with spiritual insight. These reads can be wonderful companions on your journey to rediscovering joy and purpose in this new phase.

The Power of Journaling: A Tool for Reflection and Growth

Journaling alongside your biblical reading can be a transformative experience. It’s not just about writing down thoughts—it’s about creating a space for prayer, reflection, and dialogue with God. When I journal, I pour out my heart, reflecting on the scriptures I’ve read and how they apply to my life as an empty nester.

Ways to Incorporate Journaling:

• Write down verses that resonate with you: When a verse speaks to your heart, write it in your journal. Reflect on what it means for your current season and how you can apply it in your life.
• Pray through your journaling: Use your journal as a space to communicate with God. Write down your prayers, your hopes, and even your struggles. It’s a place to be open and vulnerable.
• Record your journey: As time passes, journaling allows you to look back and see how far you’ve come. You’ll notice how God has been present in your life, guiding you through this transition.

One of the things I’ve loved about journaling during this time is that it has allowed me to see how God is actively working in my life, even when I wasn’t sure what the future held. It has given me clarity and reminded me of His faithfulness.

Finding New Purpose and Joy in This Season

As empty nesters, it’s easy to feel like we’ve lost a part of our identity. But through biblical reading and journaling, I’ve learned that God still has plans for us. This season of life, though different, is just as valuable as the ones that came before it.

This time can be an opportunity to deepen your faith, explore new passions, and serve others in ways you might not have been able to when raising children. Reflecting on scripture reminds me that God is continually shaping and refining us, regardless of where we are in life.

My Favorite Journaling Prompts for Empty Nesters:

What have I learned about God’s faithfulness during this transition?

What are some new ways God is calling me to serve in this season?

How can I lean into His promises when I feel uncertain?

In what ways can I use my time and gifts to grow in my relationship with God?

How to Get Started with Your Own Biblical Reading and Journaling Practice

If you’re new to the idea of biblical journaling, here are some tips to get started:

Be consistent: Try to make reading and journaling a regular part of your routine. The more you engage, the deeper your reflections will become.

Pick a quiet, dedicated time: Choose a time in your day when you can sit down without distractions to focus on reading and journaling.

Start with a passage that speaks to you: Whether it’s Psalms, Proverbs, or another book of the Bible, start with something that resonates with your current season.

Write freely: There’s no “right” way to journal. Let your thoughts flow, whether it’s prayers, reflections, or questions for God.

Now What?

For me? Well, I have decided it’s time to step out, live fully, and see where the road takes me, and I would love for you to be with me on this journey.