Today's daily devotion

Dear Diary

Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.—PSALM 61:1-2 (NIV)

May 30, 1960. Dear Diary, today my daddy came home from his work trip to Indiana. He brought me this very diary,
a bride paper doll set, a little purse and some candy with a surprise.

So began my lifetime habit of journaling. I still have that red vinyl diary with the picture of a ponytailed teen on the cover.

Journaling became a way of coping for me over the years. Instead of “Dear Diary,” my entries often began with “Dear God,” and this was especially true during the caregiving journey for my father. Writing to God helped me focus better than praying silently.

One day, when nothing helped relieve the pain in my daddy’s hands and feet—a side effect of chemo—I wrote in my journal, Don’t you care, God? Don’t you understand? As I wrote, my anger and frustration subsided. In silence, I listened.

God cares. Perhaps recording your frustrations and fears will bring you comfort as it does me. Offer them to God, then listen for him to answer.