Wellness Wednesday – “Journaling As A Spiritual Practice For Gratitude”
Finding time to pause and reflect can be challenging in today’s fast-paced world. However, journaling offers a sacred space to be still, breathe, and connect with God. Journaling as a spiritual practice is like “prayer in action”—an ancient yet accessible way to deepen our relationship with God, open our hearts, and increase gratitude by counting our blessings.
The Apostle Paul reminds us in Philippians 4:8 to focus on “whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about such things.” This practice of “thinking on these things” is at the heart of journaling as a spiritual discipline. As we intentionally reflect on God’s presence and the blessings He provides, we shift our perspective and deepen our awareness of His goodness all around us.
Why Journal?
Journaling isn’t a log of daily events or a time-planned itinerary—it’s a time to slow down and connect with both God and yourself. When we journal, we’re invited to reveal our deepest thoughts, questions, dreams, and fears, knowing that God meets us there. Through this openness, our journals become a sanctuary where we can capture moments of insight, trace patterns in our spiritual journey, and nurture our faith.
Consider using journaling to:
- Reflect on God’s presence in the events of your day.
- Record the fruits of your prayer practices.
- Share your questions, thoughts, feelings, and desires with God.
- Count your blessing of God’s provision and care every day.
Getting Started: A Simple Journal Format
If you’re new to journaling or want to bring more gratitude into your practice, start with these prompts:
- Today has been…
- The thing I’m feeling most right now is…
- I need Your help with…
- I’m thankful for…
- Today I felt closest to You when…
- What were You trying to teach me when…
These reflections create space to talk with God openly. Over time, you may discover common themes, spiritual insights, or even answers to questions you didn’t realize you were asking.
Gratitude: Learning to See God’s Blessings
Research supports what Scripture already teaches us: gratitude can be learned and deepened. In a study by McCullough and Emmons (2003), participants who journaled weekly about things they were grateful for reported fewer health complaints, less physical illness, and even exercised more than those who focused on life’s stresses. When we focus on our blessings, we strengthen our faith and cultivate a more positive, God-centered view of life.
This week’s invitation: set aside time to journal once or twice this week. Start by listing three things in your life for which you’re grateful—whether big or small. Consider family and friends, meaningful moments, life’s opportunities, the beauty of creation, or God’s saving love freely given to you through faith in Jesus.
Here’s a suggested format:
- Date:
- Blessings:
- Reflection:
Writing about our blessings opens our hearts to see how deeply we are cared for by God. As you continue this journey of journaling and gratitude, may you find a strengthened faith and a renewed sense of joy, drawing ever closer to the One who blesses us abundantly in Christ.
