Journaling - Addressing Various Concerns

The overwhelming sense of uncertainty about different facets of our lives can sometimes overshadow our resolve to serve the Lord. When we embarked on our mission work in India, the enormity of the task ahead was daunting. To manage this, we decided to be specific about our concerns, needs, and desires. We made a detailed list of these points and then prayed over each one.

Creating this specific prayer list helped us immensely. By articulating our worries and placing them before the Lord, we found a tangible way to manage our mental stress and anxiety. This method provided a roadmap that guided us through our journey. Even after more than two decades, we continue to refer to this list and pray over some of the points, witnessing God’s unwavering faithfulness. He has never failed us.

Building a Strong Foundation through Family Practices

As parents, we limited our children's screen time and did not encourage animated TV shows. Instead, we focused on family time. Regular family prayers before dinner became a cherished routine. We gathered on the couch, sang worship songs, read scripture, shared our day's events, and prayed together. This practice created a strong spiritual foundation for our children.

On weekends, birthdays, and holidays, we extended this family practice. We would gather around the coffee table, in the living room, or even in our bedrooms, writing down points of gratitude and pressing problems. Each family member would then take turns reading their points aloud, and we would pray for each other. On birthdays, we affirmed the birthday person, making it a special event.

The Impact of Journaling on Spiritual Growth

This tradition of family prayers and journaling has had a profound impact on our children’s spiritual growth. It not only fostered a sense of closeness but also taught them the importance of gratitude, reflection, and prayer. As our children grew older, they continued the habit of journaling. This practice has become a valuable part of their spiritual lives.

Even as they have grown, we hope and believe they still practice journaling. The availability of different types of journals—both physical and digital—has made it easier to continue this habit. Looking back, we see that this practice was a worthwhile investment in our children's spiritual upbringing.

Long-Lasting Benefits of Journaling Together

The long-lasting benefits and positive effects of this practice are evident. Journaling together has strengthened our family bond and enhanced our spiritual lives. It has provided a structured way to deal with challenges and celebrate blessings. The habit of reflecting, writing, and praying has instilled resilience and faith in our children, qualities that they carry with them into adulthood.

Interactive Questions:

How did creating a specific prayer list help alleviate your mental stress and provide a roadmap for your journey?

How did the practice of family prayers and journaling contribute to building a strong foundation for your children and their spiritual growth?

Have you noticed any long-lasting benefits or positive effects in your family as a result of practicing journaling together?