Scripture to Memorize:
Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but the woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
Proverbs 31:30
Passage to Read:
Be joyful in hope, patient in afflection, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse.
Romans 12:12-14
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father;
Thank you for sending the Holy Spirit to help me live the what that you wish me to live. I know that by myself I could never come close to becoming the woman you want me to be. Without your help and mercy I could never hope to come even close to who you wish me to become. It is only with your power at work in my life that I can hope to be joyful, patient in afflection, and faithful in prayer. Change my heart Dear Lord so that I desire to share with your people in need. Teach me when and how to practice hospitality. Grant me the strength to bless those who persecute me and to resist the temptation to curse them. Help me to remember that hospitality does not mean sitting around gossiping or complaining about what others have done to me. Nor is it a time to talk about what I don't like about church. Hospitality is a time to reach out to others with love and caring. Lord, make my home a place of hospitality. Teach me for your kingdom's sake to show hospitality. In Jesus Name I pray, Amen.
Personal:
In today's lesson Donna first shares with us several scriptures in which hospitality is demonstrated and commended, along with the injunction t practice hospitality. These are Romans 16:23, 1 Timothy 5:9-10, 1 Peter 4:9, 3 John 8. I liked her comment that "hospitality is not a low-priority option for Martha Stewart wannabes. Obviously it's something on which God places a high value and every Christian should practice in her own way."
Next she shared about a woman that she calls "a contemporary Proverbs 31 woman" Deb Lovett. Donna next shares Deb's comments about how to create a home environment that ministers to the spirit, soul, and body of her guests.
"Everything good that we have belongs to God and is to be used for his glory. He is the owner of all good things, and we are the property managers. So many times we are looking for some 'ministry' out there--on the stage, in front of lots of people, when our ministry is right under our noses. You have heard that church is a hospital for sinner. Well, hospitality turns your home and property into ministry for people in the name of Jesus when you open your heart and hands to him.
Hospitality doesn't have to mean the perfect dinner, but a beautiful presentation combined with the presence of the Lord through an attitude of love. Now after many years of planning parties, Bible studies, women's conferences, and memorable family imes, I can happily rejoice in the fact that my home is a haven of rest to all, no matter what is going on. The Lord has blessed my obedience inb this area to serve and has expanded my horizons. We are now building a larger lodge on-site to accommodate more people for hospitality!"
Then she goes on to share what she (Deb) calls "props" that are essential to hospitality:
"Gifts: Always have on hand a boutique of gifts available for an assortment of ages and sexes to give at a moment's notice, things like unusual soaps, stationery, baby bibs, books, CDs, grooming kits. Have a standard wedding gift handy for those times you just can't find time to shop." Deb says she stores these items in unused dresser drawers (something I never have, but stealing a page out of Donna's book you could have a special storage bin).
"Paper: Always have white wrapping paper on hand. White paper can wrap any occasion and can be decorated with stamps, different colored ribbons and bows. Gift bags are great as well. . . .I suggest spending the extra couple of bucks it takes to put some squeezably soft toilet tissue out for guests, and have on hand the rectagular hand napkings rather than a cloth towel that can spread germs."
Other props are: candles, flowers (find out where your local flower warehouse is and buy your flowers wholesale). Food--if you have time to cook that's great but you can also have your meal catered for about the same amount, plus if you have places that have monthly menu and order a few dinners for the freezer that can be pulled out at a moment;s notice. And last but defineately not least prayer. "You can go to all the trouble you want, but without the Holy Spirit's presence and anointing, it is just another party.
Donna says "Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who turns her home into a hopsital for the weary by showing hospitality is to be praised." Donna also told of some other "dear friends" who put on a pot of soup every Sunday morning before they go to church. Then during the service they pray "Who should we invite home with us today?" Then after church they gather around the soup, with some salad, and talk about what they learned from the day's sermon, what God is teaching them. Donna then asks us "Why not consider how you can use your home as a way of reaching out?"
I often wished that Bo was more accepting of people coming over and that we had a larger home where we could have people over. Also that we lived closer to my friends and/or family.
Affirmation: I practice hospitality.
Practical:
Since I can not use my home to show hospitality, what other methods/means can I use to show hospitality.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Day 72: Dress Your Family for Spiritual Success
Scripture to Memorize:
Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
Proverbs 31:30
Passage to Read:
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
Ephesians 6:10-12
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
I want to be strong in you and in your mighty power. I put on the full armor of God so that I can take my stand against the devil's schemes. For I know that my struggle is not against flesh and blodd but against the rulers and authorities, the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Help me Lord to not only arm myself but to never forget that my family, friends, and foes are not the enemy. My enemy is spiritual. Holy Spirit equip me to fight the spiritual battles I will face today and every day. Teach me that I may teach my family how to wage war and win decisive battles for kingdom's sake.
Personal:
Donna next instructs us to not only see that our family members are properly clothed when they go out into the world to engage in their daily activities, we should also insure that they are spiritually clothed with the Armor of God (see Eph. 6:14-18) which includes:
Truth - knowing what is right
Righteousness - doing what is right
Peace - being in right relationship with God, yourself, and the world around you
Faith - believing Gd will turn everything out right
Salvation - trusting that you are right with God because of what Jesus accomplished on the cross
The Word of God - giving us the wisdom we need to understnad truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation
Prayer - inviting the power of God into our lives, enabling us to live right
Donna suggests as you gather your family at the breakfast table we need to take a few minutes and insure that everyone is dressed and ready for the day. "Talk about any scheduled events and apply God's truth to the situation. Invite your children to be open about areas of temptation, whether it's the temptation to hold a grudge against a class bully or the temptation to follow the crowd." Include instruction about the rewards of right living and the consequences of not living right, remind them of the importance of doing what is right even when no one is looking.
Donna further states that breakfast is a great time to pray together. Encourage your children to believe tht God's Word is true and that all things work together for good. Thank God for the gift of salvation and ask him to bring people into your life that you may share your experiences with so that they might experience it too.
Affirmation: I dress for spiritual success
Practical:
My daughter no longer lives with me and my ability to instruct her by anything other than my example are over. But I still need to insure that I dress myself with the full armor of God before I leave the house. I need to ask the Holy Spirit to bring to light anything I need to resolve so that I can face the day at peace with God and others. I need to remind myself of God's truths. I need to give thanks for my salvation. I need to ask him to put people in my path that I can share with them so that they to may experience salvation themselves. I do this each morning during my TAG.
Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
Proverbs 31:30
Passage to Read:
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
Ephesians 6:10-12
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
I want to be strong in you and in your mighty power. I put on the full armor of God so that I can take my stand against the devil's schemes. For I know that my struggle is not against flesh and blodd but against the rulers and authorities, the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Help me Lord to not only arm myself but to never forget that my family, friends, and foes are not the enemy. My enemy is spiritual. Holy Spirit equip me to fight the spiritual battles I will face today and every day. Teach me that I may teach my family how to wage war and win decisive battles for kingdom's sake.
Personal:
Donna next instructs us to not only see that our family members are properly clothed when they go out into the world to engage in their daily activities, we should also insure that they are spiritually clothed with the Armor of God (see Eph. 6:14-18) which includes:
Truth - knowing what is right
Righteousness - doing what is right
Peace - being in right relationship with God, yourself, and the world around you
Faith - believing Gd will turn everything out right
Salvation - trusting that you are right with God because of what Jesus accomplished on the cross
The Word of God - giving us the wisdom we need to understnad truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation
Prayer - inviting the power of God into our lives, enabling us to live right
Donna suggests as you gather your family at the breakfast table we need to take a few minutes and insure that everyone is dressed and ready for the day. "Talk about any scheduled events and apply God's truth to the situation. Invite your children to be open about areas of temptation, whether it's the temptation to hold a grudge against a class bully or the temptation to follow the crowd." Include instruction about the rewards of right living and the consequences of not living right, remind them of the importance of doing what is right even when no one is looking.
Donna further states that breakfast is a great time to pray together. Encourage your children to believe tht God's Word is true and that all things work together for good. Thank God for the gift of salvation and ask him to bring people into your life that you may share your experiences with so that they might experience it too.
Affirmation: I dress for spiritual success
Practical:
My daughter no longer lives with me and my ability to instruct her by anything other than my example are over. But I still need to insure that I dress myself with the full armor of God before I leave the house. I need to ask the Holy Spirit to bring to light anything I need to resolve so that I can face the day at peace with God and others. I need to remind myself of God's truths. I need to give thanks for my salvation. I need to ask him to put people in my path that I can share with them so that they to may experience salvation themselves. I do this each morning during my TAG.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Day 71: The Ministry of Family Meals
Scripture to Memorize:
Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
Proverbs 31:30
Passage to Read:
This is what the LORD says:
"Stand at the crossroads and look;
ask for the ancient paths,
ask where the good way is, and walk in it,
and you will find rest for your souls."
Jeremiah 6:16
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Today I want to stand at the crossroads and look at my life. I have not always followed your paths. I have not always walked in the good way. I have followed the paths of the world and walked in the paths of unwise ways. Show me the ancient paths. Holy Spirit teach me to slow down and look for those ancient paths and then give me the willingness to walk in the good way. I long to find rest for my soul. Then I can guide my family down those ancient paths so that they too can find rest for their souls. Be with me as I make the changes necessary to become the woman you would have me be. Help me to use wisdom and to be considerate of my family members as we travel along. In Jesus name, Amen.
Personal:
In today's lesson Donna talks about the fact that families once sat down to familyu dinners and going out to even fast food resturants were very special occassions. Now according to several surveys 30-40 percent of families do not eat dinner together five to seven nights a week, and familiews with older teenagers eat fewer dinners together. She states that this is a "disturbing trend when you consider the research toath has shown the significance of family meals. For example, a 2004 study of 4,746 children eleven to eighteen years old found that frequent family meals were assoicated with a lower risk of smoking, drinking, and using marijuana; with a lower incidence of depressive symptoms and suicidal thoughts; and with better grades."
She also quotes another study that showed that "the more often teens had dinner with their parents, the less likely they were to have sexually active friends, less likely girls were to have boyfriends two years older, and the less time teens spent with boyfriends or girlfriends." Another study found that "adolescent girls who reported having more frequent family meals and a positive atmosphere during those meals were less likely to have eating disorders. A Harvard University study of nine-year-oleds found that those who ate dinner at home with their parents regularly are more likely to have higher intakes of essential nutrients and vitamins.
Donna stated that the problem is that no one has time. She suggested that maybe your family would like to do what hers does which is to have family breakfast together "the family breakfast half hour". She also suggests that it does not have to be fancy or elaborate. Her menu suggests are protein shakes and fresh fruit, a breakfast casserole that is prepared the night before and then popped into the oven which you have your TAG. Some time you can make it more elaborate. In addition to the food Donna suggests putting on praise music. Then share a scripture, prayer, or a word of encouragement. Have your Personal Notebook handy to bring everyone up to speed on important happenings for the day and jot down anything a family member needs from you. She said for those of us who want to be super mom we can jot down scripture or a one-sentence encouragement on an index card and give it to a family member who really needs it.
However, Donna also says that "even though I have proclaimed the virtues of the family breakfast half hour, I don't think you should give up all hope of ever having dinner together as a family." She further states that even though we may have busy and erratic schedules we can still make nutritius food available rather than running to fast-food restaurants. She reminds us that on Day 19 she made suggestions on crock-pot meals and meal assemby kitchens. Her final comments were "Anything you can do to make it more likely that your family can share a meal together is well worth the time and effort. And something that actually makes this possible while saving you time, effort, and money is priceless."
Affirmation: I make mealtimes special.
Practical:
Because of my work schedule the weekends are the only time Bo and I can have meals together. We try to have one meal a weekend at we set together instead of each in their room with their TV tray perched in front of the television which is the worst place for people concerned with weight and proper diets to eat. We don't always manage this but we do try.
Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
Proverbs 31:30
Passage to Read:
This is what the LORD says:
"Stand at the crossroads and look;
ask for the ancient paths,
ask where the good way is, and walk in it,
and you will find rest for your souls."
Jeremiah 6:16
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Today I want to stand at the crossroads and look at my life. I have not always followed your paths. I have not always walked in the good way. I have followed the paths of the world and walked in the paths of unwise ways. Show me the ancient paths. Holy Spirit teach me to slow down and look for those ancient paths and then give me the willingness to walk in the good way. I long to find rest for my soul. Then I can guide my family down those ancient paths so that they too can find rest for their souls. Be with me as I make the changes necessary to become the woman you would have me be. Help me to use wisdom and to be considerate of my family members as we travel along. In Jesus name, Amen.
Personal:
In today's lesson Donna talks about the fact that families once sat down to familyu dinners and going out to even fast food resturants were very special occassions. Now according to several surveys 30-40 percent of families do not eat dinner together five to seven nights a week, and familiews with older teenagers eat fewer dinners together. She states that this is a "disturbing trend when you consider the research toath has shown the significance of family meals. For example, a 2004 study of 4,746 children eleven to eighteen years old found that frequent family meals were assoicated with a lower risk of smoking, drinking, and using marijuana; with a lower incidence of depressive symptoms and suicidal thoughts; and with better grades."
She also quotes another study that showed that "the more often teens had dinner with their parents, the less likely they were to have sexually active friends, less likely girls were to have boyfriends two years older, and the less time teens spent with boyfriends or girlfriends." Another study found that "adolescent girls who reported having more frequent family meals and a positive atmosphere during those meals were less likely to have eating disorders. A Harvard University study of nine-year-oleds found that those who ate dinner at home with their parents regularly are more likely to have higher intakes of essential nutrients and vitamins.
Donna stated that the problem is that no one has time. She suggested that maybe your family would like to do what hers does which is to have family breakfast together "the family breakfast half hour". She also suggests that it does not have to be fancy or elaborate. Her menu suggests are protein shakes and fresh fruit, a breakfast casserole that is prepared the night before and then popped into the oven which you have your TAG. Some time you can make it more elaborate. In addition to the food Donna suggests putting on praise music. Then share a scripture, prayer, or a word of encouragement. Have your Personal Notebook handy to bring everyone up to speed on important happenings for the day and jot down anything a family member needs from you. She said for those of us who want to be super mom we can jot down scripture or a one-sentence encouragement on an index card and give it to a family member who really needs it.
However, Donna also says that "even though I have proclaimed the virtues of the family breakfast half hour, I don't think you should give up all hope of ever having dinner together as a family." She further states that even though we may have busy and erratic schedules we can still make nutritius food available rather than running to fast-food restaurants. She reminds us that on Day 19 she made suggestions on crock-pot meals and meal assemby kitchens. Her final comments were "Anything you can do to make it more likely that your family can share a meal together is well worth the time and effort. And something that actually makes this possible while saving you time, effort, and money is priceless."
Affirmation: I make mealtimes special.
Practical:
Because of my work schedule the weekends are the only time Bo and I can have meals together. We try to have one meal a weekend at we set together instead of each in their room with their TV tray perched in front of the television which is the worst place for people concerned with weight and proper diets to eat. We don't always manage this but we do try.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Day 70: Weekly Evaluation
1. Am I listening for and hearing God's voice? What is he saying to me?
Yes, this week God is pushing me to work on a specific project that keeps getting sidetracked.
2. Am I increasingly manifesting the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Gal. 5:22-23)? What areas look encouraging? What needs prayer?
Again this week the areas that look encouraging were love, joy, peace, kindness, goodness. However I continue to need prayer in regards to patience, gentleness, and this week defineately self-control. Self-control of my tongue both in eating too much of the wrong things but also what comes off that tongue (what I say). Also patience with co-workers.
3. What did God teach me during my TAG?
Repeatedly I am touched by scripture related to not only becoming the woman God wants me to be but a woman who presses forward to be close to him, to listen to him, to be healed by him, to feel his loving mercy and grace.
4. Which priorities did I live by? Which goals did I pursue?
The priorities I lived by that Donna has talked about was finding new streams of finances; to that end I am also working on getting rid of clutter. I realized that there were things about my house that were just what my father called "dust collectors" and these were things that I could made a few dollars from selling so I am taking pictures and preparing to sell them. I also am working on the goals of using my talents (knitting & crocheting) to help others. I have joined and am encouraging other to take part in Project Linus. I'm going to be a "blanketeer".
5. Which priorities or goals did I neglect?
I did not spend as much time in Bible study as I normally do. Need to improve on that this next week.
6. What new thing did I learn--about life, God, my family, and the people around me?
This week I did not really learn anything new but was reminded again of the magnitude of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. The enormately of the price he paid to atone for my sins and those of all the world is beyond my limited understanding. If he would do that to ensure my forgiveness then I need to be more understanding and forgiving of the people around me.
7. What are my specific priorities/goals for the coming week?
Steam clean more of my floors, take pictures of the items I want to sell and get ready to post them on ebay and craig's list, spend more time studying God's word and working on the project I feel him leading me to do.
I have scheduled the above in my Personal Notebook/Journal for this next week. What about you?
Yes, this week God is pushing me to work on a specific project that keeps getting sidetracked.
2. Am I increasingly manifesting the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Gal. 5:22-23)? What areas look encouraging? What needs prayer?
Again this week the areas that look encouraging were love, joy, peace, kindness, goodness. However I continue to need prayer in regards to patience, gentleness, and this week defineately self-control. Self-control of my tongue both in eating too much of the wrong things but also what comes off that tongue (what I say). Also patience with co-workers.
3. What did God teach me during my TAG?
Repeatedly I am touched by scripture related to not only becoming the woman God wants me to be but a woman who presses forward to be close to him, to listen to him, to be healed by him, to feel his loving mercy and grace.
4. Which priorities did I live by? Which goals did I pursue?
The priorities I lived by that Donna has talked about was finding new streams of finances; to that end I am also working on getting rid of clutter. I realized that there were things about my house that were just what my father called "dust collectors" and these were things that I could made a few dollars from selling so I am taking pictures and preparing to sell them. I also am working on the goals of using my talents (knitting & crocheting) to help others. I have joined and am encouraging other to take part in Project Linus. I'm going to be a "blanketeer".
5. Which priorities or goals did I neglect?
I did not spend as much time in Bible study as I normally do. Need to improve on that this next week.
6. What new thing did I learn--about life, God, my family, and the people around me?
This week I did not really learn anything new but was reminded again of the magnitude of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross. The enormately of the price he paid to atone for my sins and those of all the world is beyond my limited understanding. If he would do that to ensure my forgiveness then I need to be more understanding and forgiving of the people around me.
7. What are my specific priorities/goals for the coming week?
Steam clean more of my floors, take pictures of the items I want to sell and get ready to post them on ebay and craig's list, spend more time studying God's word and working on the project I feel him leading me to do.
I have scheduled the above in my Personal Notebook/Journal for this next week. What about you?
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Day 69:Weekly Checkup
Cumulative Scripture Review:
A wife of noble character who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.
Her husband has full confidence in her
and lacks nothing of value.
She brings him good, not harm,
all the days of her life.
She selects wool and flax
and works with eager hands.
She is like the merchant ships
bringing her food from afar.
She gets up while it is still dark;
she provides food for her family
and portions for her servant girls.
She considers a field and buys it;
out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
She sets about her work vigorously;
her arms are strong for her tasks.
She sees that her trading is profitable,
and her lamp does not go out at night.
In her hand she holds the distaff
and grasps the spindles with her fingers.
She opens her arms to the poor
and extends her hands to the needy.
When it snows, she has no fear for her household;
for all of them are clothed in scarlet.
She makes coverings for her bed;
she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
Her husband is respected at the city gate,
where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
She makes linen garments and sells them,
and supplies the merchants with sashes.
She is clothed with strength and dignity;
she can laugh at the days to come.
She speaks with wisdom
and faithful instrtuction is n her tongue.
She watches over the affairs of her household
and does not eat the bread of idleness.
Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
"Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all."
Proverbs 31:10-29
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for all the many blessings you have given me. Thank you for helping me become blessed in my daughter's eyes. Thank you for the talents that my husband praises me for. I know that it is only by the talents, abilities, qualties, and skills that you have given me that makes this possible. Holy Spirit help me continue to do what is God's will. Help me to do things that are considered noble in His eyes and not be concerned with the world's eyes. Help me to exhibit the fruits of your Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. For all the things you have blessed me with I give you thanks and praise. In Jesus previous name I pray, Amen.
Practical:
Once again it is Saturday, our day to review and catch up. I have completed the checked items, what about you?
I completed a self-evaluation of how well I'm doing as a wife. Check
I courageously asked my husband for his feedback. Check
I've developed a plan to implemet positive changes in the areas my husband indicated would have the most impact. Check
I planned one-on-one time with each of my children and wrote the times on my calendar. Unfortunately since my daughter is grown and lives in another state along with my grandchildren and great grandchildren so I can spend one-on-one time with any of them very often.
I made a list of family traditions (existing and proposed). I sought input from my family concerning what they would like to "always" do. Again since it is usually just Bo and I we have only limited traditions.
We, as a family, developed a plan to honor the Sabbath. No, but I have made my plan to honor the Sabbath. As yet Bo does not see the need.
I've made a firm decision to live in peace with everone, including exes, in-laws, and any troublesome people. Yes, I have done this for some time basically because one I don't like to apologize when I say something I should not; and it makes my life more peaceful and less stressful.
Check to confirm you are routinely incorporating the following positive changes into your daily routine.
I'm using my Peronsal Notebook. yes
I'm regularly reviewing my Personal Vision Statement. yes
I'm spending time in my prayer place, enjoying TAG. yes
I'm dealing proactively with my secret sins. yes
I'm completiing this study every day, practicing the memory verse, and reciting affirmations daily. yes
I'm becoming consciously selective about how I dress and how I use my time and resources. yes
I'm becoming a more serious student of the Bible. yes
I'm practicing the presence of God, being watchful, thankful, and prayerful. yes
I'm following my Evening Routine and going to bed on time. yes
I'm inviting God to awaken me each morning, saying no to the snooze button, and following a Morning Routine. yes
I'm exercising control over my eating habits and limiting sugar intake. Did so-so this week.
I'm using smaller plats and controlling food portions. yes
I'm planning ahead for healthier eating. yes
I'm prayer walking three to five days each week. yes
I begin each day with a cleansing drink and consume sixty-four ounces of water each day. yes
I stop eating several hours before bed. yes
I am exercing three to four days a week to condition and tone my body. yes
I routinely take cleansing baths. yes
I'm usig my Daily Page and applying the 80/20 rule. yes
I routinely give away everything I can. yes
I'm tackling items on my Tackle List. Yes, did take the steamer to bathroom floors, still need to do the kitchen and steam clean carpets.
I'm tithing. No
I'm clearing out the rubble of debt and paying with cash. Yes
I have my savings and investments on autopilot. Yes
I'm wearing fashionable yet modest, correct-color clothing that actually fits and flatters me. yes
I'm developing multiple streams of income through home enterprise. yes
My family is maintaining our home using the shared servanthood strategy. yes
I'm focusing on being a better wife, mother, and general family member. yes
My family is developing "we always" traditions, including honoring the Sabbath. no
As far as it depends on me, I am at peace with all people. yes.
A wife of noble character who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.
Her husband has full confidence in her
and lacks nothing of value.
She brings him good, not harm,
all the days of her life.
She selects wool and flax
and works with eager hands.
She is like the merchant ships
bringing her food from afar.
She gets up while it is still dark;
she provides food for her family
and portions for her servant girls.
She considers a field and buys it;
out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
She sets about her work vigorously;
her arms are strong for her tasks.
She sees that her trading is profitable,
and her lamp does not go out at night.
In her hand she holds the distaff
and grasps the spindles with her fingers.
She opens her arms to the poor
and extends her hands to the needy.
When it snows, she has no fear for her household;
for all of them are clothed in scarlet.
She makes coverings for her bed;
she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
Her husband is respected at the city gate,
where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
She makes linen garments and sells them,
and supplies the merchants with sashes.
She is clothed with strength and dignity;
she can laugh at the days to come.
She speaks with wisdom
and faithful instrtuction is n her tongue.
She watches over the affairs of her household
and does not eat the bread of idleness.
Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
"Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all."
Proverbs 31:10-29
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for all the many blessings you have given me. Thank you for helping me become blessed in my daughter's eyes. Thank you for the talents that my husband praises me for. I know that it is only by the talents, abilities, qualties, and skills that you have given me that makes this possible. Holy Spirit help me continue to do what is God's will. Help me to do things that are considered noble in His eyes and not be concerned with the world's eyes. Help me to exhibit the fruits of your Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. For all the things you have blessed me with I give you thanks and praise. In Jesus previous name I pray, Amen.
Practical:
Once again it is Saturday, our day to review and catch up. I have completed the checked items, what about you?
I completed a self-evaluation of how well I'm doing as a wife. Check
I courageously asked my husband for his feedback. Check
I've developed a plan to implemet positive changes in the areas my husband indicated would have the most impact. Check
I planned one-on-one time with each of my children and wrote the times on my calendar. Unfortunately since my daughter is grown and lives in another state along with my grandchildren and great grandchildren so I can spend one-on-one time with any of them very often.
I made a list of family traditions (existing and proposed). I sought input from my family concerning what they would like to "always" do. Again since it is usually just Bo and I we have only limited traditions.
We, as a family, developed a plan to honor the Sabbath. No, but I have made my plan to honor the Sabbath. As yet Bo does not see the need.
I've made a firm decision to live in peace with everone, including exes, in-laws, and any troublesome people. Yes, I have done this for some time basically because one I don't like to apologize when I say something I should not; and it makes my life more peaceful and less stressful.
Check to confirm you are routinely incorporating the following positive changes into your daily routine.
I'm using my Peronsal Notebook. yes
I'm regularly reviewing my Personal Vision Statement. yes
I'm spending time in my prayer place, enjoying TAG. yes
I'm dealing proactively with my secret sins. yes
I'm completiing this study every day, practicing the memory verse, and reciting affirmations daily. yes
I'm becoming consciously selective about how I dress and how I use my time and resources. yes
I'm becoming a more serious student of the Bible. yes
I'm practicing the presence of God, being watchful, thankful, and prayerful. yes
I'm following my Evening Routine and going to bed on time. yes
I'm inviting God to awaken me each morning, saying no to the snooze button, and following a Morning Routine. yes
I'm exercising control over my eating habits and limiting sugar intake. Did so-so this week.
I'm using smaller plats and controlling food portions. yes
I'm planning ahead for healthier eating. yes
I'm prayer walking three to five days each week. yes
I begin each day with a cleansing drink and consume sixty-four ounces of water each day. yes
I stop eating several hours before bed. yes
I am exercing three to four days a week to condition and tone my body. yes
I routinely take cleansing baths. yes
I'm usig my Daily Page and applying the 80/20 rule. yes
I routinely give away everything I can. yes
I'm tackling items on my Tackle List. Yes, did take the steamer to bathroom floors, still need to do the kitchen and steam clean carpets.
I'm tithing. No
I'm clearing out the rubble of debt and paying with cash. Yes
I have my savings and investments on autopilot. Yes
I'm wearing fashionable yet modest, correct-color clothing that actually fits and flatters me. yes
I'm developing multiple streams of income through home enterprise. yes
My family is maintaining our home using the shared servanthood strategy. yes
I'm focusing on being a better wife, mother, and general family member. yes
My family is developing "we always" traditions, including honoring the Sabbath. no
As far as it depends on me, I am at peace with all people. yes.
Friday, July 3, 2009
Day 68: Live in Peace
Scripture to Memorize:
Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
"Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all."
Proverbs 31: 28-29
Passage to Read:
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay", say the Lord.
Romans 12:17-19
Dear Lord,
Help me to not repay evil for evil. Help me to have a spirit of forgiveness; just as you forgave me. Forgive for the times that I have held on to grudges and plotted revenge; for those times when I have lashed out with my tongue, when I sough justice when I was wronged.
Prince of Peace help me to have instead a spirit of your peace. Help me to place you at the center of my life so that I can follow the instructions you gave your followers in the Sermon on the Mountain. In particular, help me to incorporate the beatitudes as the groundwork for my attitudes. Holy Spirit strengthen my inner being so that the fruits of you will be what I display to those around me. Strenthen me to stand firm under life's hurts and injusticies. I want to do what is right, I want to live at peace with everyone. It do not want to have a spirit of revenge and unforgiveness. But in order to do this I need your grace to live out this commitment. Teach me Lord to trust in your righteousness. Let me learn to do what Jesus did: entrust myself to the one who judges justly. Even if your judgment is that they receive the same mercy that I have received. I trust in you and I trust your judgment. In Jesus name, Amen.
Personal:
In today's lesson Donna broaches the topic of divorce. She tells us that we should not "talk trash" about someone, particularly in front of our children. Whether it is your ex or your spouse's ex. If you can't find something nice to say about that person, then don't say anything at all. She warns " you dod not need to give them an earful about how right you are and how wrong the other parent is. Remember that other parent is a part of your children's lives". She further states that every time you tear that person down in your children's eyes you tear yourself down too. The Bible gives us a way to escape this temptation:
1. Don't repay evil for evil.
2. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody.
3. Live at peace, if possible, and as far as it depends on you.
4. Do not take revenge.
5. Leave justice in the hands of the one who judges justly.
She then states that these same five peacekeeping steps apply to our in-laws, our ex-in-laws, our next door neighbor, and our co-workers. We are to set a godly example for our children by endeavoring to live at peace with everyone, if possible. She then goes on to say, "notice it says 'if possible'. Even God knows it is not possible to get along with some people. Do the best you can and leave the rest to God."
Affirmation: As far as it depends on me, I live at peace with everyone.
Practical:
For me I have struggled over the years to follow Donna's advice. Not that I knew it as her's but rather I knew that it was God's. I have made an effort to not say anything to my daughter about her father but it has been a struggle that as she got older, got harder and harder for me. I have found though that her suggestion to release every person through prayer that I have felt I was entitled to demand justice from. I have to remember that I can not pursue justice for others and receive mercy for myself.
Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
"Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all."
Proverbs 31: 28-29
Passage to Read:
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay", say the Lord.
Romans 12:17-19
Dear Lord,
Help me to not repay evil for evil. Help me to have a spirit of forgiveness; just as you forgave me. Forgive for the times that I have held on to grudges and plotted revenge; for those times when I have lashed out with my tongue, when I sough justice when I was wronged.
Prince of Peace help me to have instead a spirit of your peace. Help me to place you at the center of my life so that I can follow the instructions you gave your followers in the Sermon on the Mountain. In particular, help me to incorporate the beatitudes as the groundwork for my attitudes. Holy Spirit strengthen my inner being so that the fruits of you will be what I display to those around me. Strenthen me to stand firm under life's hurts and injusticies. I want to do what is right, I want to live at peace with everyone. It do not want to have a spirit of revenge and unforgiveness. But in order to do this I need your grace to live out this commitment. Teach me Lord to trust in your righteousness. Let me learn to do what Jesus did: entrust myself to the one who judges justly. Even if your judgment is that they receive the same mercy that I have received. I trust in you and I trust your judgment. In Jesus name, Amen.
Personal:
In today's lesson Donna broaches the topic of divorce. She tells us that we should not "talk trash" about someone, particularly in front of our children. Whether it is your ex or your spouse's ex. If you can't find something nice to say about that person, then don't say anything at all. She warns " you dod not need to give them an earful about how right you are and how wrong the other parent is. Remember that other parent is a part of your children's lives". She further states that every time you tear that person down in your children's eyes you tear yourself down too. The Bible gives us a way to escape this temptation:
1. Don't repay evil for evil.
2. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody.
3. Live at peace, if possible, and as far as it depends on you.
4. Do not take revenge.
5. Leave justice in the hands of the one who judges justly.
She then states that these same five peacekeeping steps apply to our in-laws, our ex-in-laws, our next door neighbor, and our co-workers. We are to set a godly example for our children by endeavoring to live at peace with everyone, if possible. She then goes on to say, "notice it says 'if possible'. Even God knows it is not possible to get along with some people. Do the best you can and leave the rest to God."
Affirmation: As far as it depends on me, I live at peace with everyone.
Practical:
For me I have struggled over the years to follow Donna's advice. Not that I knew it as her's but rather I knew that it was God's. I have made an effort to not say anything to my daughter about her father but it has been a struggle that as she got older, got harder and harder for me. I have found though that her suggestion to release every person through prayer that I have felt I was entitled to demand justice from. I have to remember that I can not pursue justice for others and receive mercy for myself.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Day 67: Honor the Sabbath
Scripture to Memorize:
Her children arise and call her blessed,
her husband also, and he praises her:
"Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all."
Proverbs 31:28-29
Passage to Read:
There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God's rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest.
Hebrews 4:9-11
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for creating the Sabbath to give your people rest. Left to our own devices we would exhaust ourselves pursuing things and stuff. But you know what we need and therefore created a day to be set aside for rest. Help me to not only be grateful for the day of rest but not consider it simply a duty or inconvenience. Holy Spirit help me to realize that the Sabbath was created for me not something you demand of me. You were not punishing yourself when you took time to rest and neither is it a punishment when you ask me to rest. It's for my good and the good of my family. Therefore with your grace help me to make every effort to enter into that rest. In Jesus Precious Name Amen.
Personal:
Today Donna stresses the important of physical rest. Not because of the law and not because God will hit us over the head with a hammer if we don't rest but because it helps us regain our strength and puts life back into perspective. She states that "I'm not going to give you a specific prescription, but I'll give two simple guidelines for the Sabbath: If it's work-related or stressful, don't do it. If it's restful, do it." Next Donna shares some of her family's Sabbath traditions. Once a month they have the whole extended family over for Sunday supper. Also around 7:00PM they have communion. "We gather in our family prayer chapel (formerly dining room/school room) and talk casually about the previous week. The we read a Scripture passage and share a brief teaching. We take turns confessing our sins and offering a word of encouragement to each person. We have two simple rules. We can confess our own sins and point out what everyone else did right. We cannot brag about or defend ourselves and point out what someone else did wrong. These rules apply to everyone and have proven 100 percent effective in ensuring that communion is always a powerful, spiritually uplifting time for each of us."
Next Donna encourages us to make our Sabbath celebration something that is restful and meaningful to your family. She stresses that we "put somethought, prayer, and preparation into it and let the Holy Spirit be your guide. I believe one of the greatest blessings you can give to your children is the tradition of honoring the Sabbath."
Affirmation: I honor the Sabbath.
Practical:
For me the way I make the Sabbath special is that it is a day that is marked by church services and Sunday School and then the afternoon is spent in Bible study or listening to special messages. If not that then some other activity that is not related to work and is not stressful. Sometimes I'm not always able to do this. Sometimes there are tasks remaining that must be done of Sunday afternoon. But as often as I can I mark Sunday as a day of rest.
Her children arise and call her blessed,
her husband also, and he praises her:
"Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all."
Proverbs 31:28-29
Passage to Read:
There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God's rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest.
Hebrews 4:9-11
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for creating the Sabbath to give your people rest. Left to our own devices we would exhaust ourselves pursuing things and stuff. But you know what we need and therefore created a day to be set aside for rest. Help me to not only be grateful for the day of rest but not consider it simply a duty or inconvenience. Holy Spirit help me to realize that the Sabbath was created for me not something you demand of me. You were not punishing yourself when you took time to rest and neither is it a punishment when you ask me to rest. It's for my good and the good of my family. Therefore with your grace help me to make every effort to enter into that rest. In Jesus Precious Name Amen.
Personal:
Today Donna stresses the important of physical rest. Not because of the law and not because God will hit us over the head with a hammer if we don't rest but because it helps us regain our strength and puts life back into perspective. She states that "I'm not going to give you a specific prescription, but I'll give two simple guidelines for the Sabbath: If it's work-related or stressful, don't do it. If it's restful, do it." Next Donna shares some of her family's Sabbath traditions. Once a month they have the whole extended family over for Sunday supper. Also around 7:00PM they have communion. "We gather in our family prayer chapel (formerly dining room/school room) and talk casually about the previous week. The we read a Scripture passage and share a brief teaching. We take turns confessing our sins and offering a word of encouragement to each person. We have two simple rules. We can confess our own sins and point out what everyone else did right. We cannot brag about or defend ourselves and point out what someone else did wrong. These rules apply to everyone and have proven 100 percent effective in ensuring that communion is always a powerful, spiritually uplifting time for each of us."
Next Donna encourages us to make our Sabbath celebration something that is restful and meaningful to your family. She stresses that we "put somethought, prayer, and preparation into it and let the Holy Spirit be your guide. I believe one of the greatest blessings you can give to your children is the tradition of honoring the Sabbath."
Affirmation: I honor the Sabbath.
Practical:
For me the way I make the Sabbath special is that it is a day that is marked by church services and Sunday School and then the afternoon is spent in Bible study or listening to special messages. If not that then some other activity that is not related to work and is not stressful. Sometimes I'm not always able to do this. Sometimes there are tasks remaining that must be done of Sunday afternoon. But as often as I can I mark Sunday as a day of rest.
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