Spirit Talk

My Journey with Prayer Journals:

Retirement from the pulpit was a bittersweet milestone in my life. For decades, I had the privilege of shepherding a congregation, sharing God’s word, and witnessing His grace transform lives. As the days of retirement approached, I felt a mix of emotions—gratitude for the past, uncertainty about the future, and a longing to stay connected with the divine calling that had shaped my life.

Just recently I've discovered the profound power of prayer journals. What began as a simple practice became a lifeline, drawing me closer to the joy of the Lord and illuminating my path in this new season of life, not only writing in them, but creating them for others.

Each morning, I sit with my journal, a heart full of anticipation, my iPad and stylus poised to capture my thoughts. As I respond to the prompts in that daily journaling session, I find solace in the simplicity of this sacred routine. Recording my gratitude, petitions, and reflections helps me to focus on God's unwavering presence in my life.

With every entry, I feel a renewed sense of purpose. The act of writing becomes an intimate conversation with the Lord, a way to express my deepest desires and discern His gentle guidance. The pages of my prayer journal are a testament to His faithfulness, reminding me of the countless times He has carried me through life’s trials and triumphs.

Today, I realized that my prayer journal is more than just a repository for my thoughts; it's a wellspring of joy. It allows me to see God's hand in every aspect of my life, from the grandiose to the mundane. Especially in retirement, this practice has become a beacon of light, illuminating new opportunities to serve, love, and grow.

What surprised me most was how these journals (creating and using them myself) have become a treasure trove of wisdom and testimony. As I make daily entries, I am reminded of prayers answered and dreams fulfilled, filling my heart with unshakeable joy.

In this beautiful chapter of my life, my prayer journals have been a steadfast companion. They have enabled me to stay rooted in faith, find peace amidst change, and truly experience the joy of the Lord. Retirement from the pulpit may have closed one door, but it opened another—providing the time and space to deepen my relationship with God through the sacred practice of journaling.

If you find yourself in a season of change or longing for deeper connection, I encourage you to try keeping a prayer journal. Let the pages become a place where you encounter the divine, and discover the profound joy that flows from a life anchored in prayer. And if you don't know where or how to begin, visit and follow my "Prayer Journal Printables" page. May the joy of the Lord overflow in your heart today!



https://www.facebook.com/prayerjournalprintables

Aroma of Christ Coaching “I can do all things through Christ who strenthens me” Philippians 4:13

I'm pleased to announce my latest Prayer Journal creation, Scripture & Serenity: Quiet Time with God!

My devotional for today 💕

Philippians 4:6-7 says: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, 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,”

Let’s talk about anxiety. The verse says, “with thanksgiving.” Imagine presenting your worries to God with a side of gratitude. It’s like trading stress for peace. Today, unburden yourself through the powerful practice of thanksgiving.

Identify a source of anxiety in your life. How can you turn it into a prayer of gratitude? Recall a time when thanksgiving brought you peace in the midst of turmoil.

https://paulabehrens.com/page/finding-comfort-devotional

Finding Comfort & Healing

Interested in a theological study of the last book of the Bible? You can get the second edition of "A New Heaven and New Earth: The Book of Revelation Revisited" for less than a dollar for the next three days! And because I'm not only a theologian, but also a certified Aroma Freedom practitioner, I devoted a couple pages towards the back of the book to the “Tree of Life” as seen in the Garden (Genesis) and then again in the New Jerusalem (Revelation)🌿 https://amzn.to/4aeVh5F

"Breathe, Believe, Lead: Aromatic Insights for Church Leaders" is not just any leadership book. It's a transformative journey that blends the ancient wisdom of aromas with modern psychology resulting in a powerful modality that is healthy, healing, and holy.

Drawing from years of leadership experience in the church, a certification program through a clinical psychologist, Dr Benjamin Perkus, and a profound understanding of how essential oils influence our physical, emotional, and spiritual health, this book offers a transformative journey like none other.

“Breathe, Believe, Lead: Aromatic Insights for Church Leaders” is more than just a read; it's an immersive experience that combines spirituality, leadership, and the purity of essential oils to guide you toward becoming a more effective, inspired, and visionary leader within your vocation.

Grab a signed copy for yourself or as a gift for a friend today. Learn how easy it is to breathe, believe, and lead with purpose and passion. I'll put the link in the comments...