“And now, go, write it before them on a tablet and inscribe it in a book, that it may be for the time to come as a witness forever.” Isaiah 30:8 (ESV)
“I have enough on my plate to do every day. Why in the world would I want to sit down and write about it? Living through it is hard enough – you want me to write about it?”
I had attended a women’s conference and heard several of the speakers talk about the importance of journaling. Those were the words I mumbled to myself over thirty years ago. A young mother of two little boys – I had no time to write.
However, I did have a lot of stress and felt convicted by the Holy Spirit to try.
Once a prayer is answered we think we’ll never forget. But we do. Remember how quickly the Israelites forgot all the miracles God had performed for them. We are the same way.
Why do we forget? Everyday stressors and traumatic events affect the neural processing of the brain, causing our brains to get stuck in replaying the bad memories. Ultimately shutting down our ability to think clearly/calmly.
While it may be more convenient to type on laptops/tablets – typing doesn’t stimulate the brain like handwriting.
In fact, the act of writing by hand engages the left brain – stimulating the Reticular Activating System. The RAS categorizes what must have immediate focus and filters out the rest. While the left side is engaged, the right brain becomes free to create and feel again. Basically, writing removes the mental blocks hindering you from utilizing your full brain power. When both sides of your brain are fully engaged, you are more capable of understanding yourself, others and the world around you.
When we heed the words of Habakkuk 2:2 to “write it down” – we not only see spiritual, but mental, emotional and physical benefits.
In addition to helping us sort out our thoughts, find control and clarity; did you know that regular journaling also –
- Strengthens your immune cells – T-lymphocytes
- Decreases symptoms of asthma and rheumatoid arthritis
- Reduces stress – writing about painful emotions helps release their intensity
Science is now catching up with what the Bible has told us for years – handwriting (journaling) has positive impacts on our bodies.
In my home office, I have a credenza filled with journals that contain over thirty years of prayers. I’ve referred back to them as a “witness” of God’s faithfulness over the years. At times, encouraging myself as David often did – to keep moving forward. (Psalm 42)
If you have never tried journaling, let me encourage you today to start.
God has given you access to a powerful tool dear sister – don’t waste it!
“Father, thank You for our brain’s unique design. Teach us to be more disciplined to utilize this precious gift You’ve given us – the ability to write and its many benefits.
For His Glory
Laura Holmes (www.ephraimministries.org)
TRBC Women’s Life
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