This exercise is designed to increase joy and generate feelings of peace. Thinking about the good stuff helps you feel peaceful and relational. Once relational, you remember special “God moments” from your life then interact with Immanuel.
The goal is to remember the good stuff, feel the good stuff, then share the good stuff with others. Learn more about this 3-step sequence in the Share Immanuel booklet with Dr. Jim Wilder and Chris M. Coursey as well as in The Joy Switch by Chris.
1. Packaged Joy: Set a timer for 3 minutes to remember special moments which make you smile. Notice how your body feels.
2. Immanuel Joy: Take 3 minutes to think about times in your life when you felt God’s presence in some way. Notice how your body feels. Once you feel peaceful and aware of God’s interactive presence, ask Immanuel what He wants you to know today. Interact about these thoughts by writing your thoughts down or praying out loud. Optional questions could be, “Are You glad to be with me?” and “What do You see when You look at me?”
Ask Immanuel if there is anything you can release to God’s care and keep right now that is robbing your joy. Interact about these thoughts until you feel peaceful. Invite Immanuel to share any additional thoughts, pictures or inspiration with you before you close.
3. Share Joy: Reach out to a friend, family member or prayer partner to share thoughts from this exercise which brought you peace and joy. Include additional thoughts you feel thankful for in your life right now.