Making Time To RestSample

Renew Your Mind by Journaling.

Whatever you think about grows. Don’t focus on what you are going through. Focus on what you are going to do! — Dr. Caroline Leaf

On day 2, we learned a way to rest by meditating on God’s Word so that our actions will line up with His truths. There are many ways to let Scripture penetrate our spirits. His truth will literally pour over our minds and we will begin to see things differently. As we meditate on God’s Word, our minds will be renewed and we will find rest that we didn’t think was possible.

In order to get the most out of our time in God’s Word, we can integrate journaling as part of our daily practice. Journaling doesn’t have to be in depth or in great detail if this isn’t something we are accustomed to doing. It can be as simple as writing a few lines from any insight we received while reading the Bible. There are so many ways to journal. We can write down our thoughts or prayers; some people even do artwork during their journaling time. There is no right way to do it. To help you get started, here is a simple outline to follow: 

• Choose a verse (or multiple) and read it. 
• Read it again. 
• Write it down. 
• Ask God for insight and write that down.

Maybe you decide to journal about Romans 8:28 which says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” After reading through it two to three times, we write it down. We might even choose to write it down in different Bible versions. We finish off our time journaling by asking God for insight about what we’ve just read.

As we pore over Scripture using the plan outlined above, we can internalize it through the day. Journaling daily also provides a timeline that we can look back on to see the spiritual progress we’ve made and the fresh ways that God has spoken to us in the past. 

We will see things clearly and have a newfound perspective about how God’s Word applies to our lives and restores us from the inside out. And with our minds being renewed, we are receiving a rest that cannot be acquired by any earthly pleasure. 

Reflect 

• Have you ever made journaling a part of your daily time with God?  
• Choose one verse and journal about it using the outline above. 
• Write down any revelation that God speaks to you through today’s Bible reading or devotional.