Next time you’re out with a friend, on the phone with a mentor or reading a good book, have a journal by your side.  During conversations, nuggets of encouragement, wisdom and challenges can turn up sometimes unexpectedly.  

 

I was watching television one day when someone said, “When I know better, I do better.”  Sounds simple.  I wrote those words down and thought about them for days after.  “When I know better, I do better.”  When I understand more of what the Bible says, my attitude is better.  When I take time to listen to another’s point of view, I respond better.  When I take time to know my heart’s true desires, I plan better.  Hmmmmm…maybe there’s something to this journaling bit.

 

Keeping a journal nearby will allow you to make a quick jot of your thoughts and allow you to revisit them when you have a quiet moment.  At times, I’ve listened to the wise counsel of a friend and deeply appreciated the watering words to my dry soul.  When I write down these words, I can draw from this rich well again and again even when my friend may not be available.

 

Reading the biographies of missionaries or Christian leaders provides a great resource of insight for life.  Having a journal nearby will allow you to write down those things that are speaking to your soul at that moment.  You’ll be able to ponder over these wise words and apply them to your life.

 

As your journal begins to fill up, you’ll have an incredible resource of life-giving encouragement and wisdom that you’ll be able to share with others.

 

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