My bullet journal* is a constant work-in-progress. And being such is the benefit of a bullet journal—each person making their journal work for their own needs. In the weekly part of my bullet journal I have a section where I list what I’m learning this week. Writing it down during the week helps me remember it and ponder it and incorporate it into my life. I thought you might like to see what God’s been speaking to me as part of our journey together.

 

1. I can trust in Jesus’ ability and compassion. This truth came from the previous Sunday’s sermon by Steven Lawrence at Grace Presbyterian Church. Pastor Lawrence was teaching on Jesus healing the centurion’s servant. He made the point that the centurion believed and trusted in Jesus’ ability. He also made the point that Jesus had the compassion to heal his servant. These statements challenged me. Do I think about Jesus’ ability and compassion when I pray? Do I then trust in His ability and compassion? When I prayed this week I tried to remember that, of course, Jesus has the ability to answer my prayer and, because of His compassion, the answer He gives me will be what is best for me. This one sentence from last week’s sermon made an impact on my prayer life and spiritual growth.
2. Find the time. I saw this sentence on a sign on social media. The sign wasn’t the focus of the post, but a prop in the background. It made me think—if something or someone is important to me, I am the only one who can find the time for them/it. I have the time in my life if this person/thing is for me from God. God has given me the time for them. In order to put first things first, I need to decide what less important things I have been putting before the important people/things in my life. Then I put them first by scheduling time for them or making the commitment that they come first no matter what happens. This phrase—find the time—goes perfectly with the question “What Really Matters Today?” that I have been starting each day with for the past several weeks. What really matters today? Schedule it now. That’s how I find the time.
3. Pause. Enough said, right? This week I was once again reminded that when I feel pressured to give an immediate reply I usually regret it. I want to make this one of my new life rules—pause. Always, always, pause. Never give an immediate reply. Stop. Step back. Disengage for a time. Pray. Listen to God. Once God has spoken, then answer.
4. The more structure you have the more freedom you create. I saw this on someone’s Instagram account (not sure of the source). I have turned this quote around in my mind. Is it true? Do I have more freedom to create when I have structure in my life? It seems almost counterintuitive. I decided that it is true. When I have structured my time, I have made time to write (see number 2). When my office is organized I have space to write. When my week is in charge of me instead of me scheduling my week, writing is always the thing that doesn’t get done. My creative thoughts don’t get thought because there is no headspace for them. So yes, I need more structure so I can create the things God has put in me to do and be the creative person He made me to be.

I hope one or more of these items has challenged or encouraged you. I would love to hear which one(s).

Thanks so much for reading,

Brenda

*Also search “bullet journal” on Pinterest for unlimited ideas.

Brenda Garrison is an author and speaker who empowers women with the confidence to live their calling. Brenda is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Ministry Leadership with a Concentration in Women’s Ministry at Moody Bible Institute. She and her husband, Gene, are the parents of three young adult daughters and live near Metamora, IL.