Journaling is one way to set aside time and attention to reflect on God’s presence and purposes. Writing in a journal can enhance creativity, reduce anxiety and tracks emotional and spiritual growth. Journaling is also a way to pray.
Mount Carmel Ministries in Alexandria, Minnesota, is credited with suggesting the “TRIP” outline for prayer, which lends itself beautifully to the journaling habit.
- “T” is for listing things for which you are thankful.
- “R” is for recording any regrets you may have.
- “I” is for intercession—recording the names of people you want to remember in prayer and what you want to pray for on their behalf.
- “P” is for planning what you want to accomplish over the next day or week or longer period of time.
What you put in your journal becomes your own personal sacred writings. Journal entries are sacred in the sense of being set aside for a holy purpose. That purpose is helping you become the very best person you can be as one created in the image of a creative and caring God.
This message is excerpted from “Journaling: create your own sacred writings” by Kathryn Haueisen, a 2010 resource of the Women of the ELCA. Today we commemorate Onesimos Nesib, translator, evangelist, 1931. Today is the Summer Solstice in the Northern Hemisphere.
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