Journaling for Spiritual Growth: Six Weeks to Build a Habit That Fosters Spiritual and Emotional Maturity - Paperback

by Marc Alan Schelske (Author)

A Guilt-Free, Non-Intimidating Guide to
How Journaling Will Change You

Over the centuries, journaling has emerged as one of the most consistently transformative practices, recommended by leaders across spiritual traditions, therapists, coaches, and others. Why, then, are so many people intimidated by journaling today, while others try it--only to give it up, feeling frustrated or guilty that they couldn't maintain the practice?

Author Marc Alan Schelske experienced the same feelings of frustration and guilt. Through personal experience, research, and working with others, he has compiled proven ways to develop and maintain a wholehearted and fulfilling practice of journaling--which he's now kept up for over twenty-five years.

Journaling for Spiritual Growth is different from other kinds of journaling. Its focus is getting to know yourself better, with an expectation of God's presence in the process and a commitment to listen. Incorporating both ancient spiritual wisdom and current neurobiology, Marc explains how to be present to your life and hear what the Spirit is doing within you. Although based in the Christian tradition, this material has been used successfully by people from a wide variety of backgrounds and traditions.

Through a step-by-step process over six weeks, you will gradually learn and grow in the practice of journaling through empathetic instruction and prompts infused with "gracious flexibility." The author shows you:

• What mindsets and questions are most helpful for lasting growth
• Which journaling pattern is the best fit for you
• What expectations undermine--and enhance--journaling's effects
• How to create a sustainable habit for your individual life and temperament

As you are guided by this encouraging book, you will find journaling to be a vital and life-changing spiritual practice for you.

Author Biography

Marc Alan Schelske is a thinker and speaker who has served as a full-time pastor since 1995 and is currently the teaching elder of Bridge City Community Church in Portland, Oregon. He also hosts The Apprenticeship Way podcast and is the author of The Wisdom of Your Heart and Discovering Your Authentic Core Values. "In my writing, I focus on what it takes to nurture a healthy inner life, something found at the intersection of grace and growth," Marc says. "I write and speak to help people find belonging, redemption, and growth as they discover the life God has designed for them."