In my book “Breathing with God” there are 88 spiritual exercises for all ages. Here are some of them:

God sees me and hears me

This is an exercise that helps me to see myself and my life through God’s eyes. I feel seen and heard by God. This makes the exercise very powerful. The exercise is developed by Life Model Works, and in English it is called the Immanuel Journaling Exercise. Read moreat www.joystartshere.com. The exercise can look like this:

Gratitude: Write down something you are grateful for, and then write God’s response to your thanks.

“I see you.” Write from God’s perspective: What does God see when God looks at you right now?

God: I see you sitting on the couch writing. You look tired …

“I hear you.” Write from God’s perspective: What does God hear you saying to yourself?

God: You wonder why life is the way it is right now and why I feel so far away …

“I understand how big this is for you.” How does God see what you are going through right now, your dreams, your disappointment?

God: I want you to know that I care about you and what is happening in your life right now. I feel your weariness, and see how you struggle …

“I am glad to be with you, and gently care for your weakness.” How does God express his desire to be with you and be involved in your life?

God: I see your weariness and your longing. I want to give you strength every day for that very day …

“I can help you in what you are going through right now.” What does God want to give you now?

God: Sit here with me. I want to give you strength. Remember the friend who encouraged you yesterday? I will not leave you alone …

Read what you have written aloud, preferably to someone else.