It's that time of year again: time to go through drawers and closets, sorting out, downsizing, and organizing. It's something that I like to do about this time each year, before the good weather comes when I would rather be outside enjoying God's creation — the birds, my gardens, the beach …

As I was going through one bin, I came across some of my journals from several years ago. I stopped sorting for a while and sat down to read some of the things that I had written. As I read, I realized how close it drew me to God as I shared my deepest feelings and thoughts with my Creator.

God wants us to draw near to Him. He wants us to know Him as our heavenly Father, our Lord and Saviour, and our constant companion and helper.

James 4:8a – Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. (NRSV)

How well do you know God? Do you want to draw closer to Him? If you haven't tried journaling, why not give it a try? If you have journaled in the past, why not get back to it?

You might be wondering, "What will I write?" But once you start, you'll be surprised at how quickly you'll have filled an entire page!

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• How are you feeling?
• Are you angry about something? Talk to God about it.
• Are you thankful for something? Thank God.
• Are you sad? Tell God what is making you feel that way.
• Are you struggling? Ask God to help you.
• Praise God for what He's doing in your life.
• Tell God that you love Him.

Take time to be with God and get to know Him better as you honestly share your feelings with Him.

Psalm 46:10a – Be still, and know that I am God! (NRSV)

Ephesians 1:17 – I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation as you come to know him. (NRSV)

When you look back through your journals, as I did when I was sorting things out, you'll be amazed at how God has been working in your life.

1 Corinthians 13:12 – We don't yet see things clearly. We're squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it won't be long before the weather clears and the sun shines bright! We'll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows us! (MSG)

Prayer: Gracious God, we thank You for Your wonderful love for us. You alone are holy and worthy of our praise. We long to know You better — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Thank You for who You are, what You have done in our lives, and what You are still doing. Help us to trust You and sense Your presence throughout all our days. May we love You more deeply day by day and see You more clearly as we seek to draw closer to You. Help us always to listen for Your voice to lead us and guide us as we seek to do Your will and to serve You all of our days. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

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About the author:

Dee Renaud <dee.renaud@outlook.com>
Sauble Beach, Ontario, Canada
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