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Emotional stewardship means finding a way to sort and make sense of all that we feel. Writing is one way to keep emotions in check. David picked up a lyre, but we can pick up a pen. Want to try your hand at writing a psalm? Here are some exercises to start with.
- At the top of the page, write the words, “O Lord.” Then write a series of sentences with messages you’d like to give to God. Don’t worry about trying to connect them or make sense of them. Just pray, one small prayer after another, and write them down.
- You’re allowed. You were given a voice for a reason. Tell God exactly what stinks – and then see if you can find the tiniest crack for gratitude and trust to flow through.
- Look closely for things that make you thankful. Offer gratitude for each one. As you finish listing the blessings you can immediately see, cast your net wider and wider. Keep going for as long as you can.
This message is excerpted from “You, too, can be a psalmist.” by Karen Craigo in the September 2019 Gather magazine.