Building My Battle Book: How I Armed Myself with Grids, Colors, and Creativity

Let me tell you, deciding to start a Battle Book felt a bit like preparing for spiritual boot camp. One minute, I’m just trying to read my Bible in peace, and the next, I’m imagining the Rapture and someone rifling through my things, clueless about the Gospel. What if they miss the Post-It on the fridge saying, “Be right back—gone to meet Jesus”? That’s when it hit me: I needed a Battle Book.

I had come across the idea of writing a “left-behind letter,” which is brilliant—don’t get me wrong. But then I thought, “Why stop at a letter?” I mean, letters are great and all, but what if they had questions? What if they needed more guidance, encouragement, or a clear next step? That’s when the Battle Book idea hit me like a divinely-inspired light bulb. Creating a comprehensive, user-friendly guide for spiritual survival would be the kindest thing I could leave behind. It’s like handing someone a roadmap when they’re lost, complete with pit stops for prayer, reflection, and maybe a few laughs along the way.

Starting the Battle Book wasn’t just about being prepared; it was about crafting something that could genuinely help someone navigate uncertain times, with clear answers and hope at its core. Of course, I had to balance practicality with a healthy dose of humor because who wants to read a Battle Book that feels like homework? Exactly. So, I set out to create a resource that’s equal parts study tool, devotional, and “Don’t Panic” manual for the soul.

And with that, the hunt for the perfect tools began. Enter my notebook, a gem I found here: Amazon. This isn’t just any notebook—it’s a grid-papered, page-numbered, indexed masterpiece. The grid paper helps me keep things aligned (because my handwriting could use divine intervention), and the built-in index and numbered pages make it easy to track down any topic. Whether it’s a prayer list, a study chart, or notes about spiritual warfare, the Table of Contents keeps everything at my fingertips. Oh, and the elastic band? Perfect for holding it all together—much like my faith these days.

Once I had my trusty notebook, I needed the right tools to bring it to life. Enter waterproof pens with nibs so small, they could write the Ten Commandments on a grain of rice. I opted for multiple colors because let’s face it—sometimes red ink is just necessary for emphasis. To add a little flair, I picked up some washi tape, which instantly turns the serious business of spiritual battle planning into something Pinterest-worthy. After all, who says organizing a soul-saving manual can’t look fabulous?

Then there’s Canva—the modern miracle of graphic design for people like me who can barely draw a stick figure. With Canva, I’ve created quick-reference graphics and summaries that are not only visually appealing but also easy to learn from. For more personal touches, I use a photo printer to add snapshots that inspire faith or remind me of moments when God was undeniably at work in my life. Pro tip: if you’re adding photos, keep an eye on the thickness of your Battle Book. You don’t want it to scream, “I’m hiding something divine!”

Speaking of stealth, keeping the book nondescript was a conscious choice. It blends seamlessly into any bookshelf or bag without catching the eye of someone who isn’t on #TeamJesus. The goal is for this book to be found when it’s most needed, and I’m still brainstorming ways to alert someone to its existence. Maybe a subtle note tucked in a Bible? Or a cryptic message: “If you’re reading this, it’s time to gear up!”

I’d love to hear if you have any ideas on that front. For now, I’m keeping my Battle Book functional, creative, and ready for whatever comes next. Whether it ends up being my personal guide or a lifeline for someone left behind, I hope it serves as a beacon of faith—and maybe even gets a smile from whoever flips through its pages.