Well it did not take me long to decide. I thought about doing a totally new blog or moving to my Just Ramblings blog but decided that this was the format I have gotten used to posting a study on. For my new study I have recently received some books by a new author to me. Not a new author because she had written several book I have not read but she had recently started a new series and that was where I got interested. Her name is Debbie Macomber and the new fiction series was about a woman who had opened a yarn store. I had actually order the first two in this new series as a special from my Crossings Book Club. But also as a part of this special was her first non-fiction rendering. That is what I'm going to study next. The title is Knit Together: Discover God's Pattern for Your Life. A similar theme to the book we just finished. Of course Mrs. Macomber also is a knitter which is another interest of mine. In fact the first in her new series A Good Yarn was where I heard of Project Linus and got interested in that worthwhile organization. From which I contacted the local chapter. So now for "Knit Together":
The first thing she references is Psalm 139 in which David talks about God knitting us together in our mother's wombs. Each chapter deals with something we are created by God for. The first is that we are created for a purpose. She of course begins by sharing about herself in the part subtitled "Finding Purpose in Humble Beginnings", in which she talks about how she has always wanted to be a writer although she considered this an impossibled dream. Her reasons were that she was a poor student, she was dyslexic, she bearly finished high school and got married almost right away and then rapidly had four children. But inspite of these she became a writer and a very good one. She gives this advice for us to find our purpose by considering our passion. She asks these two questions. What is it that gets me excited? Why do I love it?
"God has a plan for your life and a purpose that fits into His master plan.
But He doesn't want you to float through life waiting for a giant bolt of
lightning to fall from heaven and point out what you're supposed to be
doing. He gave each of us a brain as well as a heart. We have to listen
to both to truly discover the pattern God has for our lives."
However, she also advises that we remain flexible and she reminds us that our lives do not end when our spouses die or our children grow up and leave home. She then shares a story of a woman who longed to be on Broadway but all of her efforts to become an actress failed. But through a chance she became a limo driver who one day her rider was Liza Minnelli. Ms. Minnelli began to regularly request this woman as her driver and later suggested that she start her own limousine service. So the woman purchased a limousine on her credit card and started her own business. She turned this into the most successful limousine services in New York City, catering to the Broadway stars as well as other famou clientele. Her dream of working on Broadway was realized but not as she originally invisioned. Next Debbie encourages us to be patient as well as passionate, and "to enjoy every step of the journey instead of being greedy for more and more." She then goes on to quote Oswald Chambers; "God's training is for now, not later. His purpose is for this very minute, not for sometime in the future. We have nothing to do with what will follow our obedience, and we are wrong to concern ourselves with it. What people call preparation, God sees as the goal itself."
For this chapter (and for me this week) Debbie leaves us with this prayer;
"It is my prayer for you that as you look to God for your purpose, you will continue along your journey by living creatively and with hope in the knowledge that God wants the best for you." [Amen.]
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Day 90: Final Evaluation
Evaluation of the Last Ninety Days
1. Am I listening for and hearing God's voice? What is he saying to me?
During this study God has pressed on my heart to not only clear out some clutter from my home but also to press forward with some things he had laid on my heart earlier. Particularly the mission of turning my crafts into something that would benefit others. This lead to starting the Asbury Blanketeers. This has already resulted in a new friend who has volunteered to help with this project. As well as two women that I have been corresponding with that I look forward to meeting.
Something else that he has laid on my heart is that I may be getting old and I may make some mistakes but that God is not finished with me yet. I am still a work in progress that he has much more work to do and work for me to do.
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?
During this study I have done fairly well at manifesting love, joy, peace, kindness, goodness, and for the most part gentleness. However, I need prayer and the Holy Spirit's help with patience, faithfulness, and defineately self-control. I still lose patience with other, struggle with remaining faithful to my 111.1 commitment. My biggest struggle continues to be controlling my mouth both in what comes out of it and what I put in it. When I'm tired and not feeling good like I have been for the last two weeks I am at my weakest and need to turn to God more but don't always. At those times I say things I later regret and I eat way too many carbs.
3. What did God teach me during my TAG?
God has laid several things on my heart in my time alone with him. For the most part it sort of relates to my answer in the first question. Some of it is just scriptures that come to mind or that he leads me to that stimulate my brain to probe deeper some topic or question. I have started recording these and keeping a journal which I hope to turn into something just not sure what God wants me to do with it yet. Maybe it is just for me but I have a deep sense that it is not.
4. Which priorities did I live by? Which goals did I pursue?
During this study one of my primary priorities was to of course, finish the study. Also to become more dedicated in daily study of God's word in some what. I had also hoped to work on diet and exercise and early on I did but that has slacked off again. Now I need to jumpstart that again. I need to become more determined in what I purchase with regards to food. I have also become a little more determined on attempting to find additional streams of income. So far that has not panned out very well but there are somethings in process that hopefully will materialize in time. Something I have not really talked about but have been working on is writing more and that too has improved. The discipline of writing this blog everyday has also lead to other daily writings.
5. Which priorities or goals did I neglect?
For the most part as mentioned above that has been the goals of diet and exercise. As usual I did well for the first few weeks but more recently have given into the desire for chocolate and a bad sinus infection has proven an excuse to stay in bed longer in the morning. For the last two weeks I have gotten up just in time to make it to work at noon. Really need to get back into the habit of getting up and going to the wellness center at least three mornings a week for a minimum of 30 minutes.
6. What new thing did I learn--about life, God, my family, and the people around me?
Right now I can not think of anything new I learned. It was more like a reaffirming of things I already knew but tend to forget.
7. What are my specific priorities/goals for the next ninety days?
1. Am I listening for and hearing God's voice? What is he saying to me?
During this study God has pressed on my heart to not only clear out some clutter from my home but also to press forward with some things he had laid on my heart earlier. Particularly the mission of turning my crafts into something that would benefit others. This lead to starting the Asbury Blanketeers. This has already resulted in a new friend who has volunteered to help with this project. As well as two women that I have been corresponding with that I look forward to meeting.
Something else that he has laid on my heart is that I may be getting old and I may make some mistakes but that God is not finished with me yet. I am still a work in progress that he has much more work to do and work for me to do.
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?
During this study I have done fairly well at manifesting love, joy, peace, kindness, goodness, and for the most part gentleness. However, I need prayer and the Holy Spirit's help with patience, faithfulness, and defineately self-control. I still lose patience with other, struggle with remaining faithful to my 111.1 commitment. My biggest struggle continues to be controlling my mouth both in what comes out of it and what I put in it. When I'm tired and not feeling good like I have been for the last two weeks I am at my weakest and need to turn to God more but don't always. At those times I say things I later regret and I eat way too many carbs.
3. What did God teach me during my TAG?
God has laid several things on my heart in my time alone with him. For the most part it sort of relates to my answer in the first question. Some of it is just scriptures that come to mind or that he leads me to that stimulate my brain to probe deeper some topic or question. I have started recording these and keeping a journal which I hope to turn into something just not sure what God wants me to do with it yet. Maybe it is just for me but I have a deep sense that it is not.
4. Which priorities did I live by? Which goals did I pursue?
During this study one of my primary priorities was to of course, finish the study. Also to become more dedicated in daily study of God's word in some what. I had also hoped to work on diet and exercise and early on I did but that has slacked off again. Now I need to jumpstart that again. I need to become more determined in what I purchase with regards to food. I have also become a little more determined on attempting to find additional streams of income. So far that has not panned out very well but there are somethings in process that hopefully will materialize in time. Something I have not really talked about but have been working on is writing more and that too has improved. The discipline of writing this blog everyday has also lead to other daily writings.
5. Which priorities or goals did I neglect?
For the most part as mentioned above that has been the goals of diet and exercise. As usual I did well for the first few weeks but more recently have given into the desire for chocolate and a bad sinus infection has proven an excuse to stay in bed longer in the morning. For the last two weeks I have gotten up just in time to make it to work at noon. Really need to get back into the habit of getting up and going to the wellness center at least three mornings a week for a minimum of 30 minutes.
6. What new thing did I learn--about life, God, my family, and the people around me?
Right now I can not think of anything new I learned. It was more like a reaffirming of things I already knew but tend to forget.
7. What are my specific priorities/goals for the next ninety days?
- Become rededicated to diet and exercise.
- Continue to spend TAG daily, studing His Word, and following His lead.
- Remain faithful in my two new projects with the book club and the blanketeers.
- To continue to write and possibly turn that writing into a source of income.
- To begin a new study besides the book club reading and post to this blog regularly.
- To use Just Ramblings to begin to explore some of the things God has me asking questions about.
- Continue to ask the Holy Spirit to help me manifest the fruits of the Spirit in all areas of my life.
For those few who have been following check back to see which book I chose next. I will return.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Day 89: Final Checkup
Cumulative Scripture Review:
A wife of nobel 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 lamps 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 not 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 instruction is on 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:
"Man women do noble things,
but you surpass them all."
Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
Give her the reward she has earned,
and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.
Proverbs 31:10-31
Prayer:
Dear Father God, thank you for my mother who taught the skills so that I can make clothes for myself, my family, and to sell. Also that I can use to be of service to you and others. Thank you for also clothing me with strength and dignity so that I can laugh at the days to come. Holy Spirit, guide me so that I can speak with wisom and so that faithful instruction is on my tongue teach me the percepts of the Word of God. Help me God to watch over the affairs of my household as you would have me too. Guide me so that I do not eat of the bread of idleness but only of the nourishing morsels of faithful industry that is of service to you and others. Teach me, lead me and help me so that I can receive the reward I have earned and my works will be praised by you. In Jesus name, Amen.
Practical:
Today is the time to review and catchup on any unfinished items. Checking first to see that you have completed the following one-time tasks:
I have committed myself to healthy aging and am taking practical steps in that direction. Yes
I have prayed, asking God to grant me a Caleb heart. Yes
I am reading the biography of a great Christian who lived a long, productive live for the kingdom of God. Not yet but am looking for one.
I identified resources that will enable me to encourage and strengthen myself. Yes
I am committed to continuing to run the race well, even when this 90-day Jumpstart is complete. Yes
I did one thing I didn't feel like doing. Yes
Check to confirm that you are routinely incorporating the following positive changes into your daily routine.
I'm using my Personal Notebook.
I'm regulaqrly reviewing my Personal Vision Statement.
I'm spending time in my prayer place, enjoying TAG.
I'm dealing proactively with my secret sins.
I'm completing this study every day, practicing the memory verse, and reciting affirmtions daily.
I'm becoming consciously selective about how I dress and how I use my time and resources.
I'm becoming a more serious student of the Bible.
I'm practicing the presence of God, being watchful, thankful, and prayerful.
I'm following my Evening Routine and going to bed on time.
I'm inviting God to awake me each morning, saying no to the snooze button, and following a Morning Routine.
I'm exercising control over my eating habits but have not been limiting sugar. Instead focusing on eating a balanced diet as outlined by my dietician.
I'm using smaller plates and controlling food portions.
I'm planning ahead for healthier eating.
I also have not been consistent in prayer walking thre to five days per week.
I do consume sixty-four ounces of water every day but do not being every day with a cleansing drink.
I stop eating several hours before bed.
I do not use a rebounder for exercise, instead I use the treadmill, recumbent bike, and recumbent cross-trainer at the wellness center along with water aerobics.
I routinely take cleansing baths.
I'm using my Daily Page and applying the 80/20 rule.
I routinely give away everything I can.
I'm taking items on my Tackle List.
I still have not been able to get back to the financial position where I can tithe but getting closer.
I'm clearning out the rubble of debt and paying with cash.
I have my savings and investments on autopilot.
I'm wearing fashionable yet modest, correct-color clothing that actually fits and flatters me.
I'm developing multiple streams of income through home enterprise.
My family is maintaining our home using the shared servanthood strategy.
I'm focusing on being a better wife, mother, and general family member.
My family has already established "we always" traditions and I honor the Sabbath but my family has not yet joined me.
As far as it depends on me, I am a peace with all people.
I'm taking every opportunity to share meals with my family, but not beginning with breakfast because neither of us are morning people.
I am also not yet able to open my home to the workers of the Lord but I do open it to the work of the Lord.
I live within my means.
I sow financial seed in good soil; I don't throw good money after bad.
I'm keeping my Vital Information folder up to date.
I'm living every day with longevity in view.
I listen to good Bible teaching daily.
Well only one more day. I stil can't recite all of memory scripture but am getting better. I do believe that I am living healthier. Now I have to reach a decision on which of the several other books I have that I want to start on next.
Plus there is the Asbury Bookwormettes book to start next week.
A wife of nobel 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 lamps 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 not 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 instruction is on 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:
"Man women do noble things,
but you surpass them all."
Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
Give her the reward she has earned,
and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.
Proverbs 31:10-31
Prayer:
Dear Father God, thank you for my mother who taught the skills so that I can make clothes for myself, my family, and to sell. Also that I can use to be of service to you and others. Thank you for also clothing me with strength and dignity so that I can laugh at the days to come. Holy Spirit, guide me so that I can speak with wisom and so that faithful instruction is on my tongue teach me the percepts of the Word of God. Help me God to watch over the affairs of my household as you would have me too. Guide me so that I do not eat of the bread of idleness but only of the nourishing morsels of faithful industry that is of service to you and others. Teach me, lead me and help me so that I can receive the reward I have earned and my works will be praised by you. In Jesus name, Amen.
Practical:
Today is the time to review and catchup on any unfinished items. Checking first to see that you have completed the following one-time tasks:
I have committed myself to healthy aging and am taking practical steps in that direction. Yes
I have prayed, asking God to grant me a Caleb heart. Yes
I am reading the biography of a great Christian who lived a long, productive live for the kingdom of God. Not yet but am looking for one.
I identified resources that will enable me to encourage and strengthen myself. Yes
I am committed to continuing to run the race well, even when this 90-day Jumpstart is complete. Yes
I did one thing I didn't feel like doing. Yes
Check to confirm that you are routinely incorporating the following positive changes into your daily routine.
I'm using my Personal Notebook.
I'm regulaqrly reviewing my Personal Vision Statement.
I'm spending time in my prayer place, enjoying TAG.
I'm dealing proactively with my secret sins.
I'm completing this study every day, practicing the memory verse, and reciting affirmtions daily.
I'm becoming consciously selective about how I dress and how I use my time and resources.
I'm becoming a more serious student of the Bible.
I'm practicing the presence of God, being watchful, thankful, and prayerful.
I'm following my Evening Routine and going to bed on time.
I'm inviting God to awake me each morning, saying no to the snooze button, and following a Morning Routine.
I'm exercising control over my eating habits but have not been limiting sugar. Instead focusing on eating a balanced diet as outlined by my dietician.
I'm using smaller plates and controlling food portions.
I'm planning ahead for healthier eating.
I also have not been consistent in prayer walking thre to five days per week.
I do consume sixty-four ounces of water every day but do not being every day with a cleansing drink.
I stop eating several hours before bed.
I do not use a rebounder for exercise, instead I use the treadmill, recumbent bike, and recumbent cross-trainer at the wellness center along with water aerobics.
I routinely take cleansing baths.
I'm using my Daily Page and applying the 80/20 rule.
I routinely give away everything I can.
I'm taking items on my Tackle List.
I still have not been able to get back to the financial position where I can tithe but getting closer.
I'm clearning out the rubble of debt and paying with cash.
I have my savings and investments on autopilot.
I'm wearing fashionable yet modest, correct-color clothing that actually fits and flatters me.
I'm developing multiple streams of income through home enterprise.
My family is maintaining our home using the shared servanthood strategy.
I'm focusing on being a better wife, mother, and general family member.
My family has already established "we always" traditions and I honor the Sabbath but my family has not yet joined me.
As far as it depends on me, I am a peace with all people.
I'm taking every opportunity to share meals with my family, but not beginning with breakfast because neither of us are morning people.
I am also not yet able to open my home to the workers of the Lord but I do open it to the work of the Lord.
I live within my means.
I sow financial seed in good soil; I don't throw good money after bad.
I'm keeping my Vital Information folder up to date.
I'm living every day with longevity in view.
I listen to good Bible teaching daily.
Well only one more day. I stil can't recite all of memory scripture but am getting better. I do believe that I am living healthier. Now I have to reach a decision on which of the several other books I have that I want to start on next.
Plus there is the Asbury Bookwormettes book to start next week.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Day 88: Determine to Finish Well
Scripture to Memorize:
Review entire passage--Proverbs 31:10:31
Passage to Read:
I will extol the LORD at all times;
his praise will always be on my lips.
My soul will boast in the LORD;
let the afflicted hear and rejoice.
Glorify the LORD with me;
let us exalt his name together.
Psalm 34:1-3
Prayer:
Dear Lord, like David I want to extol you all the time. I want to always have on my lips your praises. I want to celebrate the beauty of your creaion. Forgive me for the times when I complain because I know that is offensive to you. I want people to know that you have transformed me and healed my mind, will, and emotions. God, I want you to use me in the lives of hurting people. Let the afflicted hear what you have done in my life and rejoice, know that you can do the same for them. I want to say to everyone "come and glorify the Lord with me". Holy Spirit, lead me to those people who need to hear this message, and give me the boldness to extol the Lord and tell them what you have done for me. Amen.
Personal:
In today's lesson Donna talks about the fact that our culture no longer celebrates a woman of noble charter. Instead the media of our modern pop culture devote hours of coverage often 24/7 to women who are so immoral that several men lay claim to fathering their children. She then goes on and tells us to not expect the world at large to celebrate or consider your life story newsworthy as you journal to becoming the woman God wants you to be. Donna tells us to remember thought that God celebrates us and angels cheer our wise virtuous decisions.
Further Donna tells us that although this study is almost at an end our journey is really just beginning.
"Will you be able to press on toward becoming the woman God has called you to be?. . .Character is the ability to do what should be done, when and how it should be done, whether or not you feel like doing it, whether or not you get an instant reward, wheor not anyone stands up to cheer you on. It's the ability to say no to your natural inclinations and yes to your responsibilities."
Donna goes on to say that the problem with life is that most of it consists of the mundane, tedious, and downright difficult task of daily living. She then goes on to tell of the time several years ago when she felt God was directing her to run a marathon. As she trained with a team of people, week after week, she had grand illusions about what an amazing experience it would bge and she envisioned herself being transformed into one of the women on the cover of Runner's World magazine. However, when the actual race came she struggled to complete it and was in agony at the end and did not look anything like the woman on the magazine cover. But when she saw the look of love and admiration in the eyes of her family, and they saw the agony in hers they all cried.
She goes on to say "rugged determination, steadfast obedience, life doesn't alway turn out the way we hope it will. We don't always get the results we're dreaming of or the applause we're hoping for. But God has called us to run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus because he's the one who wrote our life story and promises to help us across the finish line."
Remember, Donna tells us, we are not here to be extolled were are here to extol the Lord, to praise him no matter what, to remain obedient no matter how diffiuclt.
Affirmation: I'm running my race with perseverance.
Practical:
Do at least one thing today tht you don't feel like doing. Note what it is.
Review entire passage--Proverbs 31:10:31
Passage to Read:
I will extol the LORD at all times;
his praise will always be on my lips.
My soul will boast in the LORD;
let the afflicted hear and rejoice.
Glorify the LORD with me;
let us exalt his name together.
Psalm 34:1-3
Prayer:
Dear Lord, like David I want to extol you all the time. I want to always have on my lips your praises. I want to celebrate the beauty of your creaion. Forgive me for the times when I complain because I know that is offensive to you. I want people to know that you have transformed me and healed my mind, will, and emotions. God, I want you to use me in the lives of hurting people. Let the afflicted hear what you have done in my life and rejoice, know that you can do the same for them. I want to say to everyone "come and glorify the Lord with me". Holy Spirit, lead me to those people who need to hear this message, and give me the boldness to extol the Lord and tell them what you have done for me. Amen.
Personal:
In today's lesson Donna talks about the fact that our culture no longer celebrates a woman of noble charter. Instead the media of our modern pop culture devote hours of coverage often 24/7 to women who are so immoral that several men lay claim to fathering their children. She then goes on and tells us to not expect the world at large to celebrate or consider your life story newsworthy as you journal to becoming the woman God wants you to be. Donna tells us to remember thought that God celebrates us and angels cheer our wise virtuous decisions.
Further Donna tells us that although this study is almost at an end our journey is really just beginning.
"Will you be able to press on toward becoming the woman God has called you to be?. . .Character is the ability to do what should be done, when and how it should be done, whether or not you feel like doing it, whether or not you get an instant reward, wheor not anyone stands up to cheer you on. It's the ability to say no to your natural inclinations and yes to your responsibilities."
Donna goes on to say that the problem with life is that most of it consists of the mundane, tedious, and downright difficult task of daily living. She then goes on to tell of the time several years ago when she felt God was directing her to run a marathon. As she trained with a team of people, week after week, she had grand illusions about what an amazing experience it would bge and she envisioned herself being transformed into one of the women on the cover of Runner's World magazine. However, when the actual race came she struggled to complete it and was in agony at the end and did not look anything like the woman on the magazine cover. But when she saw the look of love and admiration in the eyes of her family, and they saw the agony in hers they all cried.
She goes on to say "rugged determination, steadfast obedience, life doesn't alway turn out the way we hope it will. We don't always get the results we're dreaming of or the applause we're hoping for. But God has called us to run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus because he's the one who wrote our life story and promises to help us across the finish line."
Remember, Donna tells us, we are not here to be extolled were are here to extol the Lord, to praise him no matter what, to remain obedient no matter how diffiuclt.
Affirmation: I'm running my race with perseverance.
Practical:
Do at least one thing today tht you don't feel like doing. Note what it is.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Day 87: Encourage and Strengthen Yourself
Scripture to Memorize:
Review the entire passage--Proverbs 31:10-31
Passage to Read:
David was greatly distressed, for the men spoke of stoning him because the souls of them all were bitterly grieved, each man for his sons and daughters. But David encouraged and strengthened himself in the Lord his God.
1 Samuel 30:6 AMP
Prayer:
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for the Bible and making it so real. It helps me to know that even a man like David who is said to have been a man after your own heart could struggle and become distressed. He had angry people who wanted to stone him. I don't know what it would feel like to have people you have devoted your life to wanting to kill you. But I do know that hurting people hurt people. There have been times in my life when I have been hurt,not by stones but by words. Help me Lord to be more like David, who even in the worst of trials was encouraged and strengthened by turning to you. Lord, if we had our way we would never face any trials and everything would go our way but that is not how life is. Also if we did get our way all the time we would be in a lot of trouble most of the time because we do not know what is best for us. However, you Lord know what is best and you can encourage and strengthen me even in the depth of troubled times. Holy Spirit, help me be more like David and turn to God. Empower me and teach me how to encourage and strengthen myself in the Lord my God. Thank you for being such a faithful God. Amen.
Personal:
In today's lesson Donna talks about those times when like David we find ourself alone and without any one to encourage and strengthen us. She states that we need to take proactive steps to strengthen ourselves. She talks about how this study has set us on the path to strengthening ourselves but that we must continue.
She shares what she does to encourage and strengthen herself. She uses constant listening to good Bible teaching. She shared that although she used to spend a smal fortune buying tapes now you can listen to the free over the Internet. Donna says that she has developed the habit of watching her favorite Bible teacher on the Internet while lifting five-pound dumbbells. An "ideal way to strengthen spirit, soul, and body all at the same time."
She goes on to say that many Bible teachers now offer podcasts and mp3s free, so you can download teachings and strenthen yourself while you walk or run errands. Listening is another way, Donna says, to encourage and strengthen your spirit.
Donna does warn that listening to great Bible teachers is not a substitute for spending time in the Word of God. I use various teachers at www.oneplace.com and I also plan to purchase an IPod shuttle to download more.
Affirmation: I encourage and strengthen myself in the Lord
Practical:
I plan on following Donna's instruction and "continue with the positive spiritual disciplines you've developed during our ninety days together, including daily Scripture reading, Scripture memorization and prayer."
Review the entire passage--Proverbs 31:10-31
Passage to Read:
David was greatly distressed, for the men spoke of stoning him because the souls of them all were bitterly grieved, each man for his sons and daughters. But David encouraged and strengthened himself in the Lord his God.
1 Samuel 30:6 AMP
Prayer:
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for the Bible and making it so real. It helps me to know that even a man like David who is said to have been a man after your own heart could struggle and become distressed. He had angry people who wanted to stone him. I don't know what it would feel like to have people you have devoted your life to wanting to kill you. But I do know that hurting people hurt people. There have been times in my life when I have been hurt,not by stones but by words. Help me Lord to be more like David, who even in the worst of trials was encouraged and strengthened by turning to you. Lord, if we had our way we would never face any trials and everything would go our way but that is not how life is. Also if we did get our way all the time we would be in a lot of trouble most of the time because we do not know what is best for us. However, you Lord know what is best and you can encourage and strengthen me even in the depth of troubled times. Holy Spirit, help me be more like David and turn to God. Empower me and teach me how to encourage and strengthen myself in the Lord my God. Thank you for being such a faithful God. Amen.
Personal:
In today's lesson Donna talks about those times when like David we find ourself alone and without any one to encourage and strengthen us. She states that we need to take proactive steps to strengthen ourselves. She talks about how this study has set us on the path to strengthening ourselves but that we must continue.
She shares what she does to encourage and strengthen herself. She uses constant listening to good Bible teaching. She shared that although she used to spend a smal fortune buying tapes now you can listen to the free over the Internet. Donna says that she has developed the habit of watching her favorite Bible teacher on the Internet while lifting five-pound dumbbells. An "ideal way to strengthen spirit, soul, and body all at the same time."
She goes on to say that many Bible teachers now offer podcasts and mp3s free, so you can download teachings and strenthen yourself while you walk or run errands. Listening is another way, Donna says, to encourage and strengthen your spirit.
Donna does warn that listening to great Bible teachers is not a substitute for spending time in the Word of God. I use various teachers at www.oneplace.com and I also plan to purchase an IPod shuttle to download more.
Affirmation: I encourage and strengthen myself in the Lord
Practical:
I plan on following Donna's instruction and "continue with the positive spiritual disciplines you've developed during our ninety days together, including daily Scripture reading, Scripture memorization and prayer."
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Day 86: Culativate a Caleb Heart
Scripture to Memorize:
Review the entire passage--Proverbs 31:10-31.
Passage to Read:
[Caleb said,] "I, however, followed the LORD my God wholeheartedly. So on that Moses swore to me, 'The land on which your feet have walked will be your inheritance and that of your children forever, because you have followed the LORD my God wholeheartedly.'
"Now then, just as the LORD promised, he has kept me alive for forty-five years since the time he said this to Moses, while Israel moved about in the desert. So here I am today, eight-five years old! I am still as strong today as I was then. Now give me this hill country that the LORD promised me that day. You yourself heard then that the Anakites were there and their cities were large and fortified, but, the LORD helping me, I will drive them out just as he said."
Prayer:
Dear Lord, I thank you for the stories that you have included in the Bible. I know that they are meant to teach me. I thank you for this story of Caleb who was a man of amazing faith. He can serve as an example for all of us. He is an inspiration. I pray that I too can have a heart like Caleb. That I can look back over my life and know that I have followed you wholeheartedly. As I complete this study I am taking step toward becoming the woman you created me to be. Thank you Lord for the rewards for those who choose to follow you wholeheartedly. But just as there are rewards, so there are responsiblities. One of these is to be a woman who ages well. As I grow older, let me grow wiser, stronger, braver, and more spiritually alive ad powerful. Help me set an example for other believers and serve as an inspiration to all who meet me. I do not want to be like the world around me, I want to age with dignity and grace, not fear the passing of time. Holy Spirit help me to live my life in such a way that I'll be able to honely say that I followed God wholeheartedly. Give me a Caleb heart. Amen.
Personal:
Donna's lesson today is that it is not enough to live a long healthy life. We have to live a life on mission for God. "That is what Caleb was all about. He was determined to fight for what God told him rightfully belonged to the people of God". She says that she does not want to live her later years consumed with herself but with the things of God. "It's said that Corrie ten Boom led more people to Christ between the ages of eighty and ninety that she did during the entire preceeding years of her life". I want to second her closing request/prayer: "Lord, let me live long and let my heart beat after yours. Make it a Caleb heart!"
Affirmation: I have a Caleb heart.
Practical:
Donna suggests that we read biographies of Christians who lived great lives for God, especially those who served him into their eighties and beyond. She also instructs us to write a vivid description of the woman we want to be at eight-five in our Personal Notebook/Journal.
I want to continue to be active in some way at eighty-five. Even if I have to get around in a motorized wheelchair. I want to be sound mentally and to continue to have a positive attitude toward life. I most defineately want to be active in some mission for the God. What more I want to be like with take some thought. Join me in considering just what we want to be like at age eighty-five.
Review the entire passage--Proverbs 31:10-31.
Passage to Read:
[Caleb said,] "I, however, followed the LORD my God wholeheartedly. So on that Moses swore to me, 'The land on which your feet have walked will be your inheritance and that of your children forever, because you have followed the LORD my God wholeheartedly.'
"Now then, just as the LORD promised, he has kept me alive for forty-five years since the time he said this to Moses, while Israel moved about in the desert. So here I am today, eight-five years old! I am still as strong today as I was then. Now give me this hill country that the LORD promised me that day. You yourself heard then that the Anakites were there and their cities were large and fortified, but, the LORD helping me, I will drive them out just as he said."
Prayer:
Dear Lord, I thank you for the stories that you have included in the Bible. I know that they are meant to teach me. I thank you for this story of Caleb who was a man of amazing faith. He can serve as an example for all of us. He is an inspiration. I pray that I too can have a heart like Caleb. That I can look back over my life and know that I have followed you wholeheartedly. As I complete this study I am taking step toward becoming the woman you created me to be. Thank you Lord for the rewards for those who choose to follow you wholeheartedly. But just as there are rewards, so there are responsiblities. One of these is to be a woman who ages well. As I grow older, let me grow wiser, stronger, braver, and more spiritually alive ad powerful. Help me set an example for other believers and serve as an inspiration to all who meet me. I do not want to be like the world around me, I want to age with dignity and grace, not fear the passing of time. Holy Spirit help me to live my life in such a way that I'll be able to honely say that I followed God wholeheartedly. Give me a Caleb heart. Amen.
Personal:
Donna's lesson today is that it is not enough to live a long healthy life. We have to live a life on mission for God. "That is what Caleb was all about. He was determined to fight for what God told him rightfully belonged to the people of God". She says that she does not want to live her later years consumed with herself but with the things of God. "It's said that Corrie ten Boom led more people to Christ between the ages of eighty and ninety that she did during the entire preceeding years of her life". I want to second her closing request/prayer: "Lord, let me live long and let my heart beat after yours. Make it a Caleb heart!"
Affirmation: I have a Caleb heart.
Practical:
Donna suggests that we read biographies of Christians who lived great lives for God, especially those who served him into their eighties and beyond. She also instructs us to write a vivid description of the woman we want to be at eight-five in our Personal Notebook/Journal.
I want to continue to be active in some way at eighty-five. Even if I have to get around in a motorized wheelchair. I want to be sound mentally and to continue to have a positive attitude toward life. I most defineately want to be active in some mission for the God. What more I want to be like with take some thought. Join me in considering just what we want to be like at age eighty-five.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Day 85: Commit Yourself to Healthy Aging
Scripture to Memorize:
Review the entire passage of Proverbs 31:10-31
Passage to Read:
The length of our days is seventy years--
or eighty, if we have the strength;
yet their span is but trouble and sorrow,
for they quickly pass, and we fly away.
Psalm 90:10
Guided Prayer (Donna Partow):
Dear Lord, thank you for reminding me that my time on earth is limited. It is very likely that I'll live seventy or eighty years. And many people today are living into their nineties and even to one hundred and beyond. Help me to live each day with a healthy awareness of both the potential longevity and brevity of life. I know that I'll have to deal with my share of trouble and sorrow. That's unavoidable. But, Holy Spirit, I know you can give me the power to handle those things with grace and gratitude. I know my life will quickly pass and I'll fly away home. I look forward to that day when I finally see you face-to-face. Meanwhile, help me to make the most of the days I have here on earth. Amen.
Personal:
In today's lesson Donna starts out by comparing two individuals. One who overindulges in many areas: food, not exercising, etc. and has had many health problems but who refused to change because she "wanted to enjoy life". The other was a man who had once been like the woman but after his wife's death decided to turn things around and in his seventies is healthier than he was at age 17. The man is "convinced that life cand and should be a great adventure--if you're in good enough condition to enjoy it." Donna next lists some of the things that Sally Beare identified as secrets of the world's longest living people after studying various communities known for long, vibrant lives and published these finding in her book 50 Secrets to the World's Longest Living People. Here is Donna's list:
Review the entire passage of Proverbs 31:10-31
Passage to Read:
The length of our days is seventy years--
or eighty, if we have the strength;
yet their span is but trouble and sorrow,
for they quickly pass, and we fly away.
Psalm 90:10
Guided Prayer (Donna Partow):
Dear Lord, thank you for reminding me that my time on earth is limited. It is very likely that I'll live seventy or eighty years. And many people today are living into their nineties and even to one hundred and beyond. Help me to live each day with a healthy awareness of both the potential longevity and brevity of life. I know that I'll have to deal with my share of trouble and sorrow. That's unavoidable. But, Holy Spirit, I know you can give me the power to handle those things with grace and gratitude. I know my life will quickly pass and I'll fly away home. I look forward to that day when I finally see you face-to-face. Meanwhile, help me to make the most of the days I have here on earth. Amen.
Personal:
In today's lesson Donna starts out by comparing two individuals. One who overindulges in many areas: food, not exercising, etc. and has had many health problems but who refused to change because she "wanted to enjoy life". The other was a man who had once been like the woman but after his wife's death decided to turn things around and in his seventies is healthier than he was at age 17. The man is "convinced that life cand and should be a great adventure--if you're in good enough condition to enjoy it." Donna next lists some of the things that Sally Beare identified as secrets of the world's longest living people after studying various communities known for long, vibrant lives and published these finding in her book 50 Secrets to the World's Longest Living People. Here is Donna's list:
- Eat smaller portions.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Exercise.
- Get adequate sunshine.
- Have faith.
- Laugh.
- Help others.
- Enjoy a happy marriage.
- Have a pet.
- Maintain good friendships.
- Get the correct amount of sleep (neither too much nor too little).
- Supplement your diet with vitamins.
- Eat at least five servings of fruit and veggies daily.
- Eat the following foods that mny long-living people include in their diets: whole grains, brown rice, sprouted wheat bread, eggs, nuts, seeds, garlic, onion, extra-virgin olive oil, sweet potatoes, berries, and yogurt.
- Eat meat as a treat, not a mainstay.
- Have a salad every day.
- Drink red wine and green tea.
The ones of these that I do not follow is according to this list I eat to much meat and I do not drink red wine or any other alcoholic beverage because of my alcoholism (I'm in recovery and I want to stay that way). According to Donna genetics does not have much impact on our ability to live a long, healthy, happy life. She believes that lifestyle choices hold the key. I'm not certain I agree totally with her. I do agree with her that we can do everything within our power to lead along fruitful life. I come from a long line of long-lived individuals. Many of them lived long lives at a time when people did not life long lives. I also have several who lived long lives in spite of lifestyle choices that could shorten a person's life. I do agree with Donna that people do not leave the active lives that our ancestors did but we can remain active in other ways. I also think attitude has a great deal to do with whether we are happy or not.
Affirmation: I enjoy long life.
Practical:
Incorporate into your lifestyle as many of the items on the longevity list as you can.
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