Praying through Journaling

Last week, we explored heartfelt prayer and my journaling. This week I want to take a deep dive on journal writing.

I truly have a deep passion for writing that has been with me since childhood. Creating written words and illustrations has always been an integral part of my life, with these two forms of expression frequently intertwining. In 2010, I started the practice of journaling my prayers, resulting in a collection of 14 notebooks brimming with heartfelt prayers, letters, and artistic offerings to my beloved, God. It is truly a beautiful experience to reflect on the growth I have undergone as an individual and the transformation that has occurred in my spiritual journey over time. Journaling prayer serves as a powerful tool for mapping out one's spiritual journey. Through this practice, individuals can delve deep into their intentions, confront their challenges head-on, and ponder over the ways in which they perceive and receive God's responses.

How I began was quite straightforward - prayer prompts played a pivotal role. These prompts served as the initial step in fostering a dialogue. Consider them akin to kindling; just as twigs are essential for starting a fire, prompts are crucial for sparking the soul. Depending on the day, I would sometimes articulate my thoughts to God through written letters. These letters varied in nature - from expressions of adoration and affection, to notes filled with sorrow or frustration, and even simple drawings. Each page was a reflection of the promptings of my heart.

Here are some prompts to try.

• Start with gratitude. What am I grateful for. List 7.

• How was your day? What lessons can you learn from the course of the day?

• Dear Lord, I am struggling with…..

• Dear Lord, Please help me with?

• In which ways did you rely on God today?

• Is there a hymn you love that really touches your heart? why?

• Is there a particular saint who inspires you? why?

• Do you have trouble forgiving? Who do you need to forgive?

• It hurts when people tell me I…

• My favorite blessing from God is…

• I feel most at peace when…

• My favorite prayer is… Why?

This should get you started. Journaling = self-reflection on paper, understanding your thoughts, feelings, goals, and experiences for peace and perspective. It is your conversation with God. It is a personal record of time spent in prayer, your date with God. So get to it.

Pray sincerely. Write thoughts. Share feelings with God, seek guidance, express emotions, transform existence.

Happy writing!

Keep at it! Keep praying. Love the Lord.

Peace and Grace.