“Where you end up in life is not determined by where you start. It’s what you choose to do with the seconds you have–it’s what you choose to do with your potential that shapes your destiny”  Patrick M. Powers

“And because of all this, we make a sure covenant, and write it; our leaders, our Levites, and our priests seal it.” (Nehemiah 9:38)

Which journaling method is best for me?
What should I include and not include in my journal?

Yesterday we covered the topic “Why journal?” Today we move on to “How do you journal?” Let me say right off the bat that journaling will be unique to each and every person that does it. There is no such thing as one size fits all. In fact, if you journal regularly, you’re journaling method and style will likely evolve over time.

If you have never journaled before, I recommend you start with a simple method. Routines are good, so having a set time of your day to journal makes you more likely to do it. One of the simplest and most effective methods for journaling is what I call “Yesterday … Prayer Power.” At the start of each morning, write or type on a single blank page “Yesterday …” Then start writing down the things you remember from yesterday. You’ll be amazed at how you start to recognize the many blessings God is bestowing on you. That creates an attitude of thanksgiving, which is essential for entering the presence of God. Next, type a heart-felt prayer to God. Remember to start with praise and to be real. Being authentic with people is facilitated by being authentic with God.

A second method of journaling is the PRESS method, which stands for Pray, Read, Examine, Summarize, and Share. That is something I learned about in the FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) Bible in 2001. Each morning, write or type your prayer. Read or listen to at least one chapter of the Bible. Write down a verse, phrase, or word that most stands out to you. Then meditate on that (Examine it). Ask the LORD to reveal its significance. Summarize what you’ve learned or focused on with a single word or short phrase you can focus on that day. Finally, share with someone about your experience. Sharing is the key to keep God’s streams of living water flowing through you. To take more in, you need to let more out.

Another method of journaling is called ACTS. Each morning, simply write out a prayer beginning with Adoration of God, followed by Confession (be specific with your sins of commission and omission) , then Thanksgiving, and finally Supplication (your needs). Remember David Bean’s life slogan about JOY. – Jesus, Others, Yourself.

To learn more about journaling, Dr. Jerry Graham and I invite you to join us this week for our free introductory webinar titled “UNCOMMON Journaling for Breakthroughs!” Learn to hear the voice of God and take a step toward discovering and fulfilling YOUR destiny and REGISTER NOW.

The introductory webinars this week are a prelude to what Jerry and I are starting next week. We are teaming up to do a 5-week, 35-day on-line course in journaling with a special emphasis on understanding your life purpose or destiny. This is an exciting combination of two of the most significant learning experiences I’ve been blessed with in my life, i.e., journaling as a means of engaging in a two-way dialog with God, and coaching with a specific emphasis on the “discovery” of one’s life purpose and destiny.

Prayer Power
Heavenly Father, each day You bless each of us with the same number of seconds – 86,400. The hundreds of choices we make in those seconds ultimately determine who we become and what we accomplish for You. Each day You shower us with gifts from above. Bless each of my readers to make wise choices to seize the godly opportunities you place before them. Thank You Jesus. Amen and hallelujah!

Link of the Day
Choices – Inspiration and motivation

Blessings as you step out to explore the topic of journaling in depth!