A Belated Journaling Summary...Not Written With a Fountain Pen

What are the reasons for journaling? That was one question posed to us by Peggie on Wednesday night. So, what are some of the reasons given? 

• to help us to reflect on our day
• to hold ourselves accountable to living for the Lord
• to help us think through the next day
• to help us to be conformed to the image of Christ
• to examine ourselves as in II Corinthians 13:5
• to remember what the Lord has done
• to record what the Lord has done
• it helps us to think

Another question was why we don't journal.  Here are some of the ladies' answers:

• we don't see the significance
• too busy
• to many distractions
• it's frustrating either because one doesn't like to write, or because one likes to write perfectly
• it produces negative thoughts

Here are some excerpts from the book that were discussed throughout the study:

• "Keeping a journal can be one of the  most profitable and fruitful spiritual disciplines we ever practice." page 94
• "...Philippians 4:8 tells me, 'Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy-meditate on these things.' So I want to meditate on and journal about 'these things' whenever I can." page 100
• and of course, ..."there is a simplicity inherent in using a pen to write in a journal..." :)

Lastly, there was a good recommendation for those who don't like to journal. Read Stepping Heavenward by Elizabeth Prentiss.  The reason for this is because it allows you to follow the life of a girl as she is sanctified and grows in Christ.  This is one fruit that can come from journaling, to reflect on the Lord's work in our lives, especially during times of discouragement. 

Thanks Peggie for leading us in a great discussion and for your Journal Challange! (see March 8 post)