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The Journal as a Tool for Greater Growth
By Administrator | December 30, 2006
Reflecting and meditating on Bible reading as well as on devotionals, spiritual books and biographies are foundational to spiritual growth. I believe the addition of journaling will solidify the lessons learned as well as create an accountability tool, a reminder of truths and new insights.
If you are like me, you know how valuable it is to set aside a quiet time to read and grow in your spiritual walk. Yet, finding the time can be very difficult, so the thought of adding journaling to my quiet time sounds like a recipe for defeat. However, the value of a journal compels me to strongly consider it.
A journal can help you solidify Scriptural truths. The act of writing something down forces you to clarify your thoughts and impressions. As an example, let’s say your Scriptural and devotional readings led you to pray and speak blessings over your children. How much more effective would it be to write about your new understanding and commitment than to quietly pray with only a secret promise to do it? When you chronicle your growth you have a written record that helps refresh your memory and keep you accountable. A journal insures that your commitments do not fade with your memory.
If you are ready to explore the world of journaling then here are a few hints to get you started:
Remember that what you journal doesn’t have to be ready to “publish.” Read it over to make sure it makes sense to you and so your thoughts can be useful to others, but don’t fret about making it perfect.
Make it meaningful to you. You might have a fear that your journal would not be meaningful to future generations or to others. Give up your “fear of man” and journal to please God and for personal growth. Then others really will benefit.
Find an accountability partner or join a journaling community. Those who go solo often lack the same level of motivation and commitment as those who have accountability or a community.
Be realistic, if a daily journal is not feasible, aim for twice or even once a week. For accountability it is often better to write a short journal entry on a regular basis than a rare long one.
With so many potential benefits for your spiritual growth I believe journaling will be a valuable addition to your spiritual disciplines. As you consider commitments for this coming year strongly consider a journal journey.
Mark and Ellen Strohm
Topics: From Ellen, From Mark | 2 Comments »
January 4th, 2007 at 6:58 pm
Dear fellow-blogger,
Hopefully, your 2007 is getting off to a fantastic start. My prayer is that you will be blessed by God with many opportunities for fruitful service in the Lord’s kingdom in the new year.
I wanted to let you know that I’ve listed your blog on my blogroll at The Spiritual Oasis’ web site. If you have additional blogs that you would like to see listed or would like to recommend others, please send word to:
contactus[at]thespiritualoasis.org.
To view The Spiritual Oasis’ blogroll click the following link:
The Spiritual Oasis Blogroll
January 14th, 2007 at 8:53 pm
This is an excellent post abotu a subject that I have stuggled with. 2007 was to be the year I journaled once each day. Well it’s the 14th and I’ve not been doing well. (I think blogging has something to do with it.) Love what you do here and I tell everyone with kids about your blog. Keep up the great work.