Journaling and contemplation
What is contemplative prayer?
I have a dirty little secret: I have two new works published that I am sharing about off and on all week :)
And, I have another secret: I’m not much of a journaler!
But I recognize that some people are and that it is incredibly helpful for them!
So, I thought I would take a bit of time to discuss what prayer and journaling can do for one another.
And the best way to do that is to consider the approach of contemplative prayer.
All this means, is praying as meditation.
Rather than trying to rattle things off and work through a prayer list…you simply focus on repeating one word or phrase and letting your mind wander around that word or phrase.
Sometimes this can be tedious.
Other times it can be incredibly powerful.
And journaling is great for contemplative prayers because you can stay focused by writing only about what concerns your chosen word or phrase.
For me, personally, I like to break down a chunk of The Lord’s Prayer and reflect on it, turning it over and over in my mind, praying for the Spirit to guide me to what I need to know or hear or understand about that phrase.
And these have been powerful moments of prayer for me, personally.
When you maintain focus and meditate on one thing, you can begin to listen for God’s call a bit easier with less clutter.
And this is also a great way to practice hearing God’s response to your prayer and learning how to know when God is speaking to you.
My prayer for today
Our Father, help us to know you better. Help us to know ourselves better. Spirit, continually guide and poke and prod for us to move in the ways you are calling us. And give us ears, minds, and hearts to listen. Amen.
Remember
Practice your own contemplative prayer (or, check out the new journals published by Dylan at DSM Story Forge and use them to help you) and try to meditate on one key phrase or word. Give yourself plenty of time to focus and listen.
Pray: Companion Journal (a 12-week journal/workbook through The Lord’s Prayer)
Pray: Field Journal (a 30-day, non-continuous journal for those looking to jot down notes while praying on-the-go).
