Is there a benefit to journaling? And if there is what are the benefits of journaling. I love to journal it gives me a sense of direction, a release of thoughts and emotions too.
Jeremiah 30:2 “Thus speaks the LORD God of Israel, saying; ‘Write in a book for yourself all the words that I have spoken to you.’”
Why would God tell Jeremiah to write in a book for himself everything God said? I believe so that Jeremiah would have a book/journal to look at and remember all that God said and did. Especially when it looked like nothing had changed or wasn’t getting better.
Psalm 103:1-5 “Bless the LORD, O my soul; And all that is within me, bless His holy name! 2) Bless the LORD, O my soul, And forget not all His benefits; 3) Who forgives all your iniquities, Who heals all your disease, 4) Who redeems your life from destruction, Who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, 5) Who satisfies your mouth with good things, So that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.”
This Psalm describes what God does for his people. I love the “forget not all His benefits” part because we forget so writing it down helps us to remember. Another reason why I journal.
Journaling is healthy for all. Unless your environment is abusive then journaling could be dangerous. If so, write it and throw it away it gets out the emotions and that are built up.
For those who don’t have to be concerned about someone using their journal against them I recommend keeping a journal because it has several benefits.
First benefit, you can write your feelings, prayers and praise reports.
Second benefit, it helps you to get your emotions and thoughts out and it helps to see what you’re thinking plus sometimes it brings you clarity.
Thirdly, it keeps you moving forward. When I have a goal, I write it down and the steps I will use to accomplish it. This helps me to stay focused and moving forward.
Builders use blueprints to see the plan and check their next step. Journals can be same. I like to write all my thoughts the good and bad and then I can see where I’m at.
Our hearts can deceive us so when I write it down, I know if my heart is off track. Then the Holy spirit directs me back. (He’ll do this without writing too. God has a way of letting us know where we are at.)
Today take a moment and write out your thoughts and see your heart. I tell people don’t be religious in your journals. God already knows what you’re really thinking so be real and allow yourself to be free in your journal.
As you express yourself freely you will begin to develop an awareness of your emotions and thoughts. Then you’ll begin to recognize quicker the negative, anxious or fearful patterns that knock us out of peace.
Try journaling for a month and look back after the month is over to see your growth in recognizing your thoughts and emotions.