Journaling

Why Journal?

“Commit to the LORD whatever you do,
And your plans will succeed.” Proverbs 16:3

Each of us has a unique story to tell. There are no two of us alike and if you don’t get it down, who will? (Psalm 139).

Therapeutic…good for the body and soul, both mentally and emotionally. Who knows: it may even save your sanity.

Provides a lasting, valuable historical timeline. Trust me on this one: when you get older, those senior moments come closer & closer together! Believe it or not, years (maybe months) from now you won’t recall when little Susie spoke a certain word or did that cute thing!

Get the children on board too! Start them early on w/a blank book—provide crayons for pictures. Have them tell you the story about their picture & you can be the transcriber. Have them write/draw about their visit w/Grandma & Grandpa or overnight at their friend’s house. Provides interactive, educational (reinforces grammar, spelling, cognitive skills) & relationship building with our children.

Stirs the creative juices…include sketches (mine would be stick people!), artistry, humor & cartoons. There are no limits and there’s no right or wrong way to do it.

Who knows? You could even become published. Simple ways to make this happen and you don’t have to already be a published writer. Earn extra money for doing what you’re already doing.

Why not? Not enough time – wrong! We all are given the same amount of time—24 hours every day. Keep that tiny journal and pen in your purse while you’re waiting in the doctor’s office or watching a soccer game. It’s been said we make the time for the things we really want to do.

The Many Faces of Journaling ~

Devotional Journal. Track God’s answers to your prayers. Keep a journal in your stack of reference books as you do your Bible study, prayer time. Journal what the Lord is teaching you thru His Word, prayer and meditation, Hymnal/Song book, devotional book, current reading material, etc. Walk thru scripture.

How about writing a love letter or note to spouse/significant other/family member/friend? “A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones.” Proverbs 15:30-NIV; or “A twinkle in the eye means joy in the heart, and good news makes you feel fit as a fiddle.” (The Message).

Journal of favorite quotes, inspirational phrases, or jokes--the sky’s the limit! Compose a poem, lyrics to a song, devotional, or short story. . “Reflect on your present blessings—of which every man has many—not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.” – Charles Dickens.

Gratitude Journal. I limit the size so it’s small enough to carry in my purse “Spend just a few minutes each day focusing on the good things that happened…You’ll be healthier. You’ll sleep better and exercise more. You’ll feel more optimistic. Take just a moment to note the day’s blessings and you’ll sense that you have more energy…do this for a period of time, and you’ll realize you are making progress toward your goals in life. You may even discover you’re less of a mess, more organized, less possessive—the clutter that used to collect around you seems to disappear.” Deborah Norville’s book, “Thank you Power.”