Monday, March 23, 2009

More of Him Monday - My Journal

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Long, long ago, before Ladybug came along, I was a regular journaler. I have many handwritten journals that document my spiritual journey. I would rewrite Scripture verses that were speaking to me, thoughts from a devotional book I was reading, and even my prayers to God. I love reading through my journals to be reminded of what God has done in my life.

Unfortunately, I have not regained my habit of daily quiet time since Ladybug's arrival in our family. As a brand new mommy, my excuse was exhaustion (of course). Then as she became more active, I would much rather be down on the floor with her, reading books, reveling in her discovery of the world. Now that she is a very busy toddler, I still cannot find a daily time for devotions.

But I am learning to find small pockets of time in which I can journal. I keep a pocket size New Testament/Psalms/Proverbs in my tote bag. (I hesitate to call it a purse or a diaper bag; it is somewhere in between.) I also carry a brand new journal. When I have five minutes here or there, I grab the New Testament and read. Then as God speaks to me through His Word, I can write those verses in my journal.

I am approaching my journal-keeping differently than before. I am primarily using my journal to help me memorize Scripture. Once I write verses in my journal, I can read and re-read these verses during other small pockets of time.

I had been sort of beating myself up for not being able to find the 30-60 minutes of time for devotions, and for not being able to keep a journal. But I decided to give myself a break and work with the schedule that I have now. I know that my days won't always be consumed with caring for a 3-foot tall person who is exploring the world around her.

I also know how vitally important my connection to God is, and that that connection comes especially from the time that I spend in His Word. So I'm taking the time that I have to immerse myself in Scripture, and so far, it's working well.

Do you keep a spiritual journal? What has worked for you in making journal-keeping a part of your spiritual journey? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

2 comments:

  1. Oh, we are so similar! I have a stack of handwritten journals myself. I write letters to God (prayers, words given to me, etc ...), record scriptures that stand out to me, and dreams. I haven't been using these journals as much since I've started blogging.

    I am very excited to participate in a Meme each Monday where we memorize one scripture a week. I have a toddler too, so I understand! If you would like to join us, stop by my page and find it.

    Many blessings!
    Beth

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  2. I have really been having trouble finding/making time for quiet time, too. I need to get back into the habit.

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