The Exchange Box: Emotional Healing Project
- Kelly Kirstein
- Jul 29
- 2 min read
What Is the Exchange Box?
Discover how to surrender painful memories to Jesus and receive peace, healing, hope and more in exchange through this simple faith practice.

We all carry painful memories, beliefs, or feelings that weigh us down. But Jesus doesn't want us to stay stuck in that pain. He invites us to process the hurt with him.
The Exchange Box is a space where you let go of what’s broken and receive something new, healing, and full of hope from Jesus. It’s a physical reminder of the ways He is rebuilding your heart and renewing your mind.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Choose Your Box. Find a container, small box, or jar that you can dedicate as your Exchange Box. It could be a shoebox, a jewelry box, a tin, or even a mason jar—anything you can make your own.
Make It Yours Decorate the outside to reflect you! Use:
Stickers
Washi tape
Bows or ribbons
Markers or paint
Scrapbook paper or fabric
Add Meaning Personalize your box with:
Your name or initials
Your favorite Bible verse
A word that represents hope or healing (like “Peace,” “Restored,” or “Loved”)
Leave Space Inside Leave room to place objects, notes, or drawings that represent what Jesus gives you during your healing moments.
How to Use Your Exchange Box
Follow these steps slowly and prayerfully:
1. Process with Jesus
Think of a painful memory or experience. Something that still hurts or affects the way you think or live.
Write or draw about it here. Be honest—Jesus can handle it.
2. Invite Jesus In
Close your eyes and imagine Jesus with you in that memory. Ask Him:
“Jesus, where were You in this moment?”
“What do You want me to know about this?”
“What truth do You want to speak over this pain?”
Write down what He shows you, says to you, or how you feel. It could be a word, image, Scripture, or just a deep sense of peace.
3. Fill Your Mind with Truth
Search the Bible for verses that speak to the truth Jesus revealed. You can use a Bible app or ask a leader to help you find one.
Write the verse(s) here:"_____________________________"
4. Make the Exchange
Now, picture yourself handing that painful memory to Jesus.
Ask Him:
“Jesus, what do You want to give me in exchange?”It might be:
A new word (like “peace” or “freedom”)
An object (like a crown, a key, a flower)
A new way of seeing yourself or that situation
Write or draw what He gives you:"_____________________________"
5. Add It to Your Box
Find or create an object that represents what Jesus gave you—a rock for strength, a ribbon for love, a drawing, a word written on paper, etc.Put it in your Exchange Box as a reminder of your healing.
Why the Exchange Box Matters
Every time you see your Exchange Box, remember: Jesus is rebuilding the broken walls in your life. He’s restoring your heart piece by piece. And every exchange is a step toward healing, wholeness, and freedom.
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