This is an idea I got from a very good friend and wanted to share it on my Post.
I have a friend who has had a really tough time the last couple of years. She told me about one of the things she does that helps her to handle the terrible things that have been happening to her. A few years ago she started using a "God Jar." When she has something that is out of her control, that she simply can't manage herself or over which she has little influence, she writes it down on a scrap of a paper, lifts the lid on her God Jar, drops it in, replace the lid, and turns it over to God. She says the physical act of putting it in helps her to actually let go of it and put it in God's hands. She also puts in notes of thanks for tender mercies. It is kind of a physical prayer.
I was so excited about this idea that on my way to visit teach this week I stopped and bought 7 little Christmas tins (the ones that I thought could best pass the "put everything away in January that looks Christmassy" test. They can sit out year around, I hope). I had cut up lots of small pieces of paper, and I put some in each of the tins and gave one, with an explanation, to the sister I visit teach. Then I put together 5 more for my daughters, and one for myself.
When Rosalind got home I explained it to her. I was afraid she would think it was really cheesy, but she loved it, and started writing down both challenges and blessings right away. I have, too, but I've decided to make a modification. I realized I was quickly going to fill up the jar with "blessings" notes, so I decided I'm going to only write down the things I need to turn over to God in my jar.
I went out yesterday and bought several small notebooks. I'm going to use the notebook as a Gratitude Journal, a place where I can record and remember the tender mercies of the Lord. I was very impressed with President Monson's talk in October General Conference where he talked about the importance of gratitude. I especially liked this: "Sincerely giving thanks not only helps us recognize our blessings, but it also unlocks the doors of heaven and helps us feel
God’s love." When I take time to notice and acknowledge the tender mercies of the Lord in my life, I realized how aware He is of my needs and how involved He is in even the small things of my life--the lost keys or the forgotten timer on the stove. I feel wrapped in the arms of His love when I open my eyes and recognize the multitude of blessing I receive from His hands.
So I bought additional notebooks for my seminary class's Christmas present. I can't think of a better gift to give them than something that will help them be more aware of the Lord's love for them. I've always kind of wished I had the ability to knit them all a pair of socks for Christmas, but I think this will trump even warm socks.
Merry Christmas, everyone. I hope you feel wrapped in the arms of His love this season, and that you recognize His constant love and eagerness to bless us. I know we will find peace and joy if we will turn our hearts to Him.
I was so excited about this idea that on my way to visit teach this week I stopped and bought 7 little Christmas tins (the ones that I thought could best pass the "put everything away in January that looks Christmassy" test. They can sit out year around, I hope). I had cut up lots of small pieces of paper, and I put some in each of the tins and gave one, with an explanation, to the sister I visit teach. Then I put together 5 more for my daughters, and one for myself.
When Rosalind got home I explained it to her. I was afraid she would think it was really cheesy, but she loved it, and started writing down both challenges and blessings right away. I have, too, but I've decided to make a modification. I realized I was quickly going to fill up the jar with "blessings" notes, so I decided I'm going to only write down the things I need to turn over to God in my jar.
I went out yesterday and bought several small notebooks. I'm going to use the notebook as a Gratitude Journal, a place where I can record and remember the tender mercies of the Lord. I was very impressed with President Monson's talk in October General Conference where he talked about the importance of gratitude. I especially liked this: "Sincerely giving thanks not only helps us recognize our blessings, but it also unlocks the doors of heaven and helps us feel
God’s love." When I take time to notice and acknowledge the tender mercies of the Lord in my life, I realized how aware He is of my needs and how involved He is in even the small things of my life--the lost keys or the forgotten timer on the stove. I feel wrapped in the arms of His love when I open my eyes and recognize the multitude of blessing I receive from His hands.
So I bought additional notebooks for my seminary class's Christmas present. I can't think of a better gift to give them than something that will help them be more aware of the Lord's love for them. I've always kind of wished I had the ability to knit them all a pair of socks for Christmas, but I think this will trump even warm socks.
Merry Christmas, everyone. I hope you feel wrapped in the arms of His love this season, and that you recognize His constant love and eagerness to bless us. I know we will find peace and joy if we will turn our hearts to Him.
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