Two years ago, I started keeping a journal. In my life, I have never wanted to have one, never took the time to write in one, and frankly, thought they were useless. I knew I did not care to read about what I was thinking or doing at a younger age.
But now I write in my journal and I keep it with me whenever I can. Not just at home, but also at work, and along with me in the car. The reason? The Holy Spirit. My prayer life has changed so much in the past two years. I need a journal to record thoughts when I pray.
My view of prayer used to be that I was communicating to God my concerns. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Phil 4:6,7. This was my go-to verse when I thought about prayer.
But then I read a book called, “Good Morning, Holy Spirit”- by Benny Hinn. In it I found rich description of who the Holy Spirit is and the active role He takes during prayer. I discovered seven stages of prayer—which I am still discovering—and I have realized that the Presence of the Holy Spirit is immediately attentive, active, and responsive when I pray. He abides with me—and you—all day every day, eagerly awaiting the opportunity to reveal His thoughts and to intertwine His answers with my questions, anytime I address Almighty God by faith—with humility and reverence. Thus, the journal. It is a record of His responses and His teaching. When I speak to the Lord, I usually have pen in hand, so that I may write what comes to mind. I know it is Him.
April 14, 2025: “FOR SOMETHING TO ACTUALLY BE TROUBLE, GOD HAS TO FORSAKE ME, WHICH HE WILL NEVER DO.”
I wrote that in my journal one morning while praying and praising the Lord before work. I don’t remember writing it. To be completely honest, I am in awe of what it says. It was all CAPS. I saw it for the “first time” today, and so it became the topic of this bulletin article.
Therefore, I believe that I cannot have any trouble in my life. Though my flesh likes to interpret things in a negative, fearful way, by faith I know that my flesh is wrong. I belong to God. “And we know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28 By calling things “trouble” that are not, I am expressing doubt about my Lord’s faithfulness to me. I am also missing the opportunity to understand and partake of the true reason for the circumstance I am in. God is good, all the time. I am in Him, and He is in me. What shall I fear? More importantly: What amazing thing is He doing?
You and I share the same faith. Therefore, the Holy Spirit is just as attentive, active, and responsive with you as with me. Just trust Him.
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