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I’m going to kick this post off by asking, do you journal? The phrase journal writing is described as the process of recording personal insights, reflections and questions or personal topics. As Christian women, I would add that it’s a great way to write out your thoughts, ideas, pour out your heart to God, what’s going on in your personal life, and prayers. It’s a just another way to express your thoughts privately between you and Him.
Personally, I LOVE journaling! I make it a point after I brush my teeth in the morning and pour a fresh hot cup of hazelnut Folgers coffee with French vanilla creamer (yum!), to then whip out my journal, pen, Bible, as well as my yellow highlighter and just reflect on the day before, pray, and simply write down Scriptures and thoughts that are rummaging through my head. It is so freeing and refreshing! So, I’ll ask again, do you journal?
It’s something about writing. It’s a release, comforting, relaxing, helpful, and it frees your mind. You can’t always pick up the phone, but you can pick up a pen. Even in the Bible, it’s the written word that changed lives (and it’s still changing us today). The words penned through those mighty and called men were inspired by God. I know that’s going a bit deep. But the Apostle Paul wrote in prison and He wrote under inspiration by the Holy Spirit.
When we write in our journals, sometimes God uses those times to reveal truth through His word. Sometimes those prayers that were written with hot tears flowing from our eyes can be looked upon later to see how the Lord answered them in His own timing. Sometimes those written words can be used for a blog, article, speaking engagement, Bible study, or video series. Sometimes it can be used to share the very words that were written in your quiet time to one day share with your children or friend who can glean from you overcoming a hardship or life experience. It just can help in so many ways.
Honestly, there’s no Bible verse that I can give you that explains journaling (if you find one, let me know). Yet, it exists. Nevertheless, what I can share with you are verses like these, “Cast your cares upon the Lord, because he cares for you.” (Philippians 4:6-7) And Psalm 46:1, “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in time of trouble.” Also, “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer…” (1 Peter 3:12)
So journal, sis.
If you don’t have a journal, order one online or go to a nearby grocery or bookstore and purchase one. You can get a simple one-subject notebook or a cute journal that has a Scripture or encouraging quote on the front cover. That can be inspiring within itself (I like those). Once you get it, make it a point to schedule time to write in it.
You can write your thoughts, but you can also write what you’ve learned through a book of the Bible, sermon, video message, or a book that you’ve been reading. You can journal ministry or business ideas. You can write about what you’re dealing with in your relationships or what your kids are experiencing or what you’re experiencing in this season as a woman, wife, mother, minister leader or entrepreneur. You can write out your goals, dreams, aspirations, again your prayers, and vision that God has shown you regarding your purpose.
Whatever it is, write it out. Bare. Before God. Before you…so that you can see things in writing, more clearly. Whatever you’re going through. Whatever you’re dealing with. Whatever you’re aspiring to do. Pray and feel free to journal it, Sister!
Remember, Jesus is coming back soon! And those who endure unto the end shall be saved. So let’s be ready from the Inside Out!
~Courtnaye
QUESTION: Do you have a journal? Do you need to write out what you’re dealing with in this season? Or do you need to write out your dreams and aspirations, or goals? Also, if you need prayer, you can email me directly and I will pray for you @ insideoutwithcourtnaye@gmail.com. I look forward to hearing from you and praying for you.
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