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7 Ways I shifted at 2019 Shift Con

Usually, when I come back from blogging conferences like 2019 Shift Con, I typically have information obesity. My intention is always to “do all the things,” but my life and self-discipline usually fail. It’s been a few weeks since I attended Shift Con. It was a great conference that I got to experience with three of my good friends.

The first week I needed to process mostly, because I won the 2019 Best Fitness Blogger. Winning was a shock and a fantastic experience.  I thought I knew which direction I wanted to go when I left Shift Con. I was at peace on the plane ride home, reflecting from the weekend. The most memorable part of the entire experience was the influencers who attended Shift Con. 

I met influencers that are doing amazing things for people and our environment. I never considered using my voice and influence to provoke change. I have used it to inform, but there are people out there changing laws, demanding better for everyone, and they are using it through their Eco-Wellness Influence.

Information Processing

I needed to process all the info on lifestyle changes. I would consider myself living green, but I realized that I could be doing better. In all things, we should strive to do our best, and when you learn something new, you have to apply it, or what’s the point in learning? I went to Shift Con with no expectations than attending another conference, and I left changed as the fantastic Ari Adams spoke, “we need to Shift!” and that exactly what I experienced at 2019 Shift Con.

 

7 Shifts from SHIFT Con

7. Community exist

Meeting other bloggers in the wellness and sustainability community was refreshing to see other influencers who had the same concerns about ingredient labels, food quality, household toxicity, and water quality. As well as the education and knowledge I received on how to take actionable steps to change. 

Still Reeling from the Community of Shift Con

It took me days to process the Shift Con community. They were so encouraging, helpful, genuinely trying to collaborate and help each other succeed. I’ve been to other blog conferences that have been motivating and empowering. I have never experienced the authenticity and kindness like the Shift Con community. That made the difference for me for Shift Con and other influencing conferences. Everyone was so giving, kind, and eager to help each other. It was such a connecting atmosphere, which is what you expect from the events but don’t often receive. 

Learning from your Peers

On the last day, we had a Bloggers Round Table, and it was hard to choose because each table had a skill I need to improve.  I got to two tables, and because I had to split my time, I got as much information as I could, and it was info overload. They were giving us exactly what we needed to do to improve. 

Meeting New People

Meeting so many new people would usually have me anxious, but I was pretty peaceful the entire weekend. Usually, I’m an anxious traveler. I felt completely comfortable, and I know its due to the people and the atmosphere.  I also have many new influencers to follow and grow my awareness of sustainability.

6. Personal Responsibility 

You don’t know what you don’t know,

BUT,

when you learn something new, then you have a personal responsibility to act. #CommitActImpact was the theme of the OCS2 Network.  The Organic Sustainable Community is a community of thirty-two sustainable leaders who work together to have a positive effect on the natural products industry and our environment.”

 

We are consuming our natural resources at such rapid rates without replenishing them that they will run out.  We have to learn and try sustainable practices to live productively in this world. I learned so much at Shift Con Eco-Wellness, especially in Climate Control, and I have some things I need to change. They are supporting businesses like those of the OSC2 Network that are making a positive change outside their own companies and creating powerful communities to thrive on their own.   

Lotus Foods part of OSC2 Network supports More Crop Per Drop Program

My family’s impact may be small, but that’s why I blog. Sharing what I’m learning on this journey to help others hopefully is a personal responsibility. As well as who I collaborate with is my personal responsibility. Considering my impact on this world and how I can do more was a significant shift and Shift Con.

5. Be a Voice

I can be somewhat ditzy sometimes, and I had a moment at Shift Con, so please don’t judge me for my ignorance. One breakout session that I didn’t mean to attend probably gave me one of the most significant “Shifts” in my perspective at 2019 Shift Con. The title was “Being a Budget Activist” I didn’t read the description, but I’m really trying lately to budget to went in completely naive and walked out inspired to make a difference. 

Within minutes I realized that I had joined the wrong class. It wasn’t what I was searching for, but it’s what was needed. 

Leah Segedie, Carissa Bonham, and Moderator  Paige Wolf are three inspiring women and Eco-Wellness Influencers. They don’t sit back; they take action, and the three were leading the room and sharing the gifts of how to take actionable steps to create change in our legislature. 

What kind of change?

An Influencer in the audience got a crosswalk sign put up in her town after her daughter was hit by a car in the same area.

Leah worked on labeling for Genetically Modified Foods in California, Oregon, and Washington. I am still working diligently in the green sustainability movement.

Carissa worked on Medical freedom in Oregon.

Paige was the catalyst for removing toxic floor cleaners and wax in Philadelphia schools have.

These women have all taken a stand to make change happen, and because of their compassion, things are better for everyone, especially our children.

Using our voices as Influencer and being an activist for what we believe was a massive shift in my thinking.

4. Quality is more than essential its critical

I have never been so comfortable around a group of people. I have been called an ingredient snob on more than one occasion; In several different ways, when it comes to my food and cleaning products. Recently, I’m turning my nose at conventional health and beauty products.

Our shelves are overstocked with chemicals that are harming us.  There is little to no regulation, and the company complete disregards humane practices for the sake of mass production. The inferiority of our products should be concerning and voiced.  I often get the response, “we’re all going to die from something,” but why accept if you know there is something better.

We deserve Quality

Mindset shift at Shift Con on the quality of all of my products, not just-food. I want to be more intentional about all of my products.  I am pretty green in the cleaning and food but still working on my makeup and hygiene products. That would be my next Shift at Shift Con.

Working with Green Brands and Services

I have been searching for an Aluminum-free Deodorant that lasts for longer than two weeks and doesn’t make me stink.  So far, I am liking Type A Deodorant. I love the application; it’s not abrasive. I like most of the scents their not overpowering. It doesn’t go on chalky, and I don’t have to reapply as often as other natural deodorants.  I have tried so many in the last year but feeling satisfied with TypeA Deodorant.

I learned about companies like the Environmental Working group and products with EWG Verification. EWG is creating an education platform for consumers to know what products are clean. Unfortunately, as consumers we must be our best advocate.

3. Knowledge is Power

My shameful confession is I live in a bubble when it comes to the worldly news. Whether its local politics, state, federal, or international news, I have no idea what is happening. For the last three years I have intentionally removed all access to local and world news.

Filtered Perspective

I choose what I see in my Social Media feed. We stream television, and I don’t watch tv. So, unless I intentionally check out the news, which I don’t, I have no idea. Except for my husbands’ occasional rants of social and political injustices.

Shielded from Reality

I am shielding myself from reality, but I really need to know what is going on.  Balance is a continual struggle for me and something I need to work on for all things. That is a constant shift that I am working on.

Pants from Aikacircle.com use “faithfueled” to get 20% off

2. People are listening

I started writing this blog five years ago because I love to write. I always have since I was a little girl. I wrote many “novels” in my younger years.

When I was introduced to blogging, I had lots of time on my hands. I needed a creative outlet. I started writing about Christian parenting. Then I began my weight loss journey and seeking information.

It was on my mind, so I shared it with you, and to my surprise, every month, people are reading the things I have to say. Then I became convicted to share the gospel through my journey.

Memorable Moments at Shift Con

At Shift Con, it was refreshing to have people tell me they followed me as I follow them was mind-blowing. Or meeting people that I have been following for years but never thought I would fit in real life. Like the Crunchy Mommy, I have been following for over five years since Mimi was a baby. Sharing the stage with Aaronica as an award winner was crazy! When I share, I’m usually talking out loud, and it’s good to know people are listening. 

Ari Adams CEO of Shift Con, Aaronica Cole of The Crunchy Mommy Pants from Aikacircle.com use “faithfueled” to get 20% off

It’s not the first time that someone has told me they’ve read my blog. The difference since Shift Con is I am ready to own it.  I work hard, and I am passionate about what I do! I am grateful it is appreciated. I am even more appreciative that people still read!

1.Chosen 


First, can I have Hallelujah, Praise God and Thank you, Lord moment. Honestly, without God, I would not be at this point in my life. The opportunities that I receive are nothing but a blessing and a light on my path.  I am beyond grateful but trying to remain humble. My mission and what I always set out to do in FaithFueled Mom is for His glory — not my own. I am really psyched and appreciative to receive the award and just in awe of God and His grace. It was obviously the highlight of 2019 Shift Con for me and a shift. That I can be exactly who I am and share what I believe and still be recognized by my peers is an honor. Next, I want to thank everyone who nominated and voted for me. I appreciate you. 

I was Chosen for the 2019 Shift Con Best Fitness Blogger, which is kind of a big deal for me. Chosen was my word for the year.  

 

Ephesians 1:3–6 (NIV): 3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. 4 For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love 5 he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will—6 to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves.

FaithFueled

There are a lot of fitness bloggers out there, but we’re not all the same. Although, my message is to move and fitness is a method of movement. My ultimate message and the one that Shift Con made me realize I need to get out. Is to honor your temple!

Take care of what God has given us from your body inside and out, where you physically live, and how you treat this earth God gave us. There are so many facets of honoring your temple, and fitness is just one of them. I want to other wellness.

I introduced to Shift Con two years ago, another blogger friend Aida of Girlfriend with Goals, told me I needed to attend. Two years later, I did, and she was right.  I’ve been to many conferences, but none that made me want to make a change and serve others more passionately than Shift Con.  

Next year, Shift Con will be in Irvine, CA, on October 8-10, 2020. Inform yourself and learn more about Shift Con. Why did it begin? What is eco-wellness and see if you would like to join me.

There are so many little details I didn’t recap, but I did on my Instagram Stories Highlights as I walk you through the three Days of Shift Con. Hope to see you there so you can shift stuff in your life too.  Do you ever attend bloggers conferences?

 

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Bible “phobia”

I received this Bible for free in exchange for a review as a BibleGateway Bible Grid Blogger. I have amazon affiliate links that I receive a commission from the sales, but all of my opinions are my own.  My Full Disclosure Policy 

2 Timothy 1:7 (NIV) For God has not given us a spirit of timidity, but of power and love and discipline

Bible “Phobia” can be a real source of trepidation

I remember growing up reading the King James Version of the Bible and thinking it was the equivalent of Shakespeare. Eloquent words strung together that I couldn’t understand or follow; It was intimidating, to say the least. Then I grew up spiritually. I enjoyed listening to sermons, reading books about devotion and faith, but when it came to the Bible. I will have to admit it became intimidating and scary. I joined a Bible studies group and still owned that same KJV Bible I had been carrying with me since I left for college.

While in Bible Study people would read the verses clearly in a language I could understand. Say what?  I would try to follow along with my KJV still lost and confused. Until one day, I noted their version of the Bible and immediately sought the help of Amazon.com. Oh, the options, so many to choose from; deciding on an NIV (New International Version) for myself and NLT (New Living Translation) for my daughter. Since then, I have purchased an Amplified Bible, too (AMP) and have become a little Bible-obsessed.

Trying something new

After a few years with my NIV Bible, I finally purchased my favorite version thus far, (NASB) New American Standard Bible. I LOVE IT!! I’ve tried other Bible and keep coming back. I have to admit I purchased this Bible because of a Bible Teacher that I love and follow Kim Cash Tate said she uses it.  Now that I have my own, I understand. I love this translation and my specific Zondervan and all the extra information it provides.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV) All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

 

Finding what works Best

Before, I was afraid of not knowing enough or understanding the Bible. I didn’t have my favorite verse memorize or couldn’t pull a verse out of my head to comfort someone in need. My fear of the Bible kept a significant barrier between me genuinely knowing God.  I never participated in Bible-based conversations because I had no idea what they were saying. Once I started reading the Bible (in a version I could understand), I was fascinated with it. There are so many stories, heroic, scandalous, educational, motivational, directional stories. I think every topic you could think of is covered in the Bible. I began to use the Bible to answer my questions on faith, how I should go about situations, even on the type of marriage I wanted, and how to raise my children. It’s all in there waiting to be discovered and study.  Now I try to get into the word at least once a day, and I always have my Bible near (I downloaded the Bible app).

Psalm 119:130 The unfolding of your words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.

What about a Bible for those who have more questions?

Recently, I received the NIV Study Quest Bible made by Zondervan.  It is the first Bible that has Questions and Answers throughout.  I was so excited to receive this new version and immediately began exploring the Bible.  This Bible “breaks-it-down” and is a great Bible for someone who has lots of questions or newly exploring studying the Word.  After seeing all the references and resources, I gifted it to my daughter.  She is at a point where she needs more substance in her walk with Christ, and I think this Bible is a fantastic source of more in-depth discussion about the Bible but intimidating like my NASB Study Bible.  I have been catching her studying more often. She told me she loves the questions and answers.  She said she usually has questions when reading the Word and its nice to know she is not the only one. The further explanation of passages and verses has allowed her to grow and become more in-depth in her study.  It’s a pretty cool Bible!

A little extra help is, okay!

A Bible Commentary is another way to gather more understanding of the Word. Whether its separate sources or included in your Bible notes. Bible Commentaries are a fantastic way to dissects verse by verse and bring more knowledge to the meaning. Some Bibles’ include the commentary, but you can buy a separate one too that usually goes into greater detail.

 

It tells you what was happening during that time the verse was written, information about the author, and some may even give you physical location reference points for a greater understanding. Don’t let your lack of knowledge keep you away from the Word. It is fundamental to growing your relationship with Christ and creating a deeper understanding of your faith. It’s the WHY and the HOW that you sometimes need.

We need the Truth from the Word

When I first came to Christ, no one took me under their wings and showed me these things or told me I could use a different version of the Bible. Not that I needed permission, but I did need guidance. I was looking for a mentoring program but never found one. Wouldn’t it be amazing if we had a Titus Women type mentorship in the Church? Many churches have it, but mine does not, I even asked and never was connected with anyone so I had to seek out mentors myself.  Online Bible Teachers became a great source. It’s not ideal but in this disconnected world. It’s nice to find a community somewhere even if it is virtual. In this modern world, we must use every tool necessary to get the Truth. There is salvation in the Word and so much to learn and grow you need to find a Bible the one that allows you to understand. I am grateful for apps like the Bible Gateway that has over 150 version right in the palm of your hand.  They also have the BibleGateway.com/plus, which is a membership that offers expanded Bible studies, resources, and more for those who are looking for more ways to connect in the Word.

Have you let your lack of knowledge or understanding keep you from the word?

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Breaking up with Busyness

Breaking up with busyness

September is National Self-Care month. Self-care is not about massages and manicures but about doing the things that help you operate at your best self. For me, that means breaking up with busyness. For the last several months, I have been busy with no results. The things that I invest time in has not brought fulfillment. The things that my busyness is taking away from is falling by the wayside. This month I decided to self-care I need to stop being busy and do the things that are going to bring fulfillment.

Psalm 62:1 (NIV) Truly, my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him.

What I knew

I was taught, “idle hands are the devils’ playground.” It has stuck with me throughout my life. Still busying myself with a task, some meaningful and some meaningless.  Then, I became a mother and applied that to my children. Signing them up for classes, keeping their weekly calendar full with outings, play dates and activities.  Teaching them that they should always have something to do and not allowing them to have the time of rest or leisure. After rereading the story of Mary and Martha I came to an epiphanie- “I need to break up with busyness.”

Luke 10:41-42 (NIV) “Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, 42 but few things are needed—or indeed only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” 

For the first time in my adult life, I wanted to be a “Mary.” Previously, I took pride in the fact that I was an exceptional multitasker and exemplary at time management.  I realized slowing down and taking time to “be still” was an admirable trait.

Why is Busyness Applauded?

Many people are always on the go until they reach exhaustion.  Busyness is considered tremendous, and stillness is deemed to be lazy.  When we are still, we can hear God, be closer to Him, and use His guidance.

Mark 6:31-32 (NIV)
31 Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”32 So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place.

Are we valuing our relationships?

Being busy also keeps us from having meaningful relationships with others.  We are so wrapped up in the go-go; we aren’t fostering our communities and fellowship, which is very important.

Hebrews 10:24–25

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and ball the more as you see the Day drawing near.

Are we meaningful and present in our significant relationships, like our spouse or children? Are we filling our time and presence with stuff and activities? Is it worth the stress and isolation to be task-oriented?

Three Ways I plan to break up with Busyness

  1. Say “No” more. I often say, “yes” before even thinking of how it will add or take away value from my life.  I plan on saying, “Not Yet” and “No” more and see if the situation or task will take away from my life.
  2. Get over FOMO. I often say, “Yes” because I don’t want to miss out on anything. I have always been like that but I am starting to realize that I don’t have to be part of everything and that is okay. Age brings you the wisdom I guess.
  3. Knowing my Why.  If I stayed focused on the “why” I am doing something than “what” I am doing will either have more or less meaning. Being rooted in my “why” will help me discern of the things that are meant for me.

My “Aha” Moment

The story of Mary and Martha was an epiphany for me. I discovered I wanted to fellowship, devote more time to God and my family and friends.  Have a more meaningful and present relationship with the people in my life.  It gave me permission that I needed to slow down and reduce so that I could be more like Mary. When I am planning for my children now, it’s memorable experiences versus expertise in activities. I spend quality time in the Word, with my husband daily, my family, my dog and my stress level are low.  I am living the “Mary” lifestyle and enjoying the moments instead of calculating my time. So, the last part of the year I am going to be doing less and enjoying more. This life was not meant to cram as much as we can into every hour but to enjoy every hour that we have. That’s the plan let’s see if I stick with it.

Does busy equal important? Which would you prefer the “Mary” or “Martha” lifestyle?

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Reflection of 2018

Reflection of 2018 and Planning for 2019

The last half of 2018 I have slowly begun to rely on my own strength. This is a common mistake of mine that I start to seek God as a backup plan instead of the action plan.  I have let worry and anxiety drive a wedge between my trust and reliance on God.  Even in choosing my “word” for the year initially, I was motivated by my own motives or at least I thought I was until prayer.  Through prayer and scripture, I uncovered my truth for this year and intention for 2019.

My gaze has turned from 2017 focused on the things above and not of this earth.  In 2017, my word was “Focus and Legacy,” and my Verse was Colossians 3:2. 2017 was a phenomenal year. I was amazed at what I achieved. Honestly, I can say, that I focused on God that year and achieved greatness through Him.  Focusing on God and not the girl next to me allowed me to get things done that year.

Then in 2018, almost as a challenge, I believe. I was led to”Gratitude” for my word.  As anticipated there were many circumstances in 2018 where I could have said, “Why God?’ and chose “I am grateful, Lord.” It took intention, but it was a pruning experience. There were a few setbacks, humbling moments and many opportunities to give up but being grateful for what I had for the moment allowed me to persevere.

Practicing Gratitude

This year I felt like I fell from grace. It wasn’t intentional, but it has been made clear in my reflection and the way I felt the last half of the year.  I had let my need for achievement, success, and accolades over my need for the Truth and the Light.  There were brief periods of anxiety, depression, and loneliness especially at the beginning of the year when I was homebound with my ankle injury.

I felt like the things that I have worked so hard for began to crumble under my own strength. There were lots of setbacks in my life personally. I think the most significant blow was my husband tearing his Achilles at the peak of his busy training season.  We have had several roadblocks this year. We have had to pull back on some things. Change the way we lived for a while because of finances.

Despite my despair, I knew God was with me the entire time. He had never left me but allowed me my own free will to seek Him in all things.  If it weren’t for my desire to serve and be with God, I would never come to this realization. I also probably would have given in to the doubt like in the past.

Instead, I chose to trust in hope and wait in faith. It was also my reminder to be grateful even for a little bit which humbled our family this year.

Bringing it back to Prayer

I preach to honor your temple, but that can only be done and begin with prayer.  When I act first without prayer I always make a mess of things. So, here I am planning another year an in bright, bold neon letters- (God knows that’s the best way to get my attention). He has led me to a new beginning and time to learn from the previous year and set a new intention as I work to the next year.

 “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:[a] The old has gone, the new is here!” 2 Corinthians 5:17 

My “Word(s)” for this year.

I founded FaithFueled™ Mom on the foundation of my intent to Glorify God.  Only through Him will it build community and grow but only if I connect with Him.

My three words for this year are “Community, Connection and Growth” initially my sinful nature defined them as,

CONNECTION with others who are on a similar mission to grow MY business.

Build a COMMUNITY of women who glorify God through honoring their temple. (Aka. FaithFueled™ mission statement)

and

GROWTH in all areas of life, finances, relationships, and business.

When God gives you a wake-up Smack

Then (yes afterward) I looked to Scripture to support MY intentions (not God).  Then as if I was smacked in the face

“But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15 

That is not what I intended, but without God, my sinful nature took over my second nature. After spending time in the Word. I was set on a better path and given an opportunity to begin the year in the way of my heart’s desire.

My “Word (s)” Redefined

CONNECTION will be through Christ. He will lead me to the people to carry out His plan and not my own.

James 4:8 “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.  Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”

COMMUNITY will continue to be my mission to grow a community of women who are glorifying God through honoring their temple.

“Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” Proverbs 27:17

GROWTH spiritually that will trickle into all aspects of my life.

“Therefore, dear friends, since you have been forewarned, be on your guard so that you may not be carried away by the error of the lawless and fall from your secure position. 18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.” 2 Peter 3:17-18

My Word for 2019

I really want to keep it simple this year, so I am going to group these three under CHOSEN. Totally off my initial thought of my word(s) or is it?

One thing that I have felt this year is unqualified and unworthy. I think its time to realize that I am worthy and completely qualified. Only through God because He chose me to live this life.

“just as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we would be holy and blameless before Him. In love He predestined us to adoption as sons and daughters through Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the kind intention of His will to praise the glory of His grace, which He freely bestowed on us in the Beloved.” Ephesians 1:3-6

I have been chosen and this year I want to accept it. I want to connect with the God who chose me, build a community and share with other chosen women and grow and feel qualified through Him and not others opinions.

No longer living in doubt and question of my purpose. I want to walk in my life knowing that I was handpicked by God to bring Him glory.

My Faith fuels me

My intent is not to come across as a Saint because I am not a Saint.  I am a Child of God who was chosen in love to bring glory to His kingdom. I enjoy it; it brings me passion and drive to do what I do and help other people.  When I lose sight of Him, I lose my way, and that’s when I feel anxiety, worry, depression and not my best self.  So, I have to remember what I learned a few years ago and what got me so far. I need to

“Set my mind on the things above and not the things of this world.” Col 3:2

He will give me the clarity to fuel my journey as He has in the past and will do it again an again. Open the doors of opportunity and make the path straight. Whenever in whatever capacity I need.

Instead of “living my best life” I plan on “living the chosen life.”

It may mean a different course of action this year but I know that with God it ultimately, be in my favor, It always is when I seek and trust in Him.

My anticipation for 2019

When it is all said and done even if I don’t make it to a New Year. I want to live every day of 2019 connecting with God and seeking His purpose. Growing my faith and being in a community that is adding women to His kingdom. Living as if I was already chosen by Him to live a life of purpose. What do you think too lofty? You’ll just have to stay tuned and see how He manifest His goodness this year.

” For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; 6 and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; 7 and to godliness, mutual affection; and to mutual affection, love. 8 For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 1:5-8

If you feel lost in your way seek God for guidance. He will give you direction and peace on your path.  Praying you to have a Happy Healthy New Year.

What did you learn in 2018 that you are going to use in 2019? What is your word?

 

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I just want to “Say Thanks”

Declaring Gratitude

I declared my word for 2018 as gratitude, and I knew that it would be  challenged the moment I pressed “share.”

Here I am again reflecting. Ever since December, I’m not going to lie this girl’s mental strength has been on a 4 or 5 out of 10.  Anxiety has crept its way back into my life, and it’s only because I’ve been allowing myself to rely on myself. Old habits die hard, and I am five months into my recovery from my ankle injury. I am at another commonplace in my faith journey and through the seasons.

Bad Habits Die Hard

Yep, I have been running on my own but unlike in the past. I KNOW better and know that relying on my own strength, know-how and provision will last for a moment. God has shown me some amazing things in my life when I give them to Him!

I also have too much going on; Way too much and when your “still” (whether intended or forced by an ankle injury) like in my case. It becomes pleasantly clear.

To say God hadn’t warned me would also be a lie. I knew what I was doing it as I am very capable of saying, “No.”  When God would say “slow down.” I’d say, “okay, just after this one thing.”

When God said, “Ask me?” I’d say, “Sure but let me see if this works first” and here I am ending the first quarter of 2018. Spent, warn, lost and like the knucklehead I can be; finally listening.

Different Reaction

This time it’s different. I am no longer like; “Why me?” I have yet to say that but before that would have been my first go-to. Although, I fell back into old habits. One thing that has changed is my strength in the Lord. I am lost, but I am lost in the right direction. I know the burden is too great so I know I must give it to God. Even though I was disobedient, God did not turn His back on me but persistently reminded me to lean on Him.  I also am now fully aware and have experienced an unconditionally loving Father who will never leave nor forsake me. I can turn to Him anytime and seek His grace, mercy, love and guidance. I will continue to grow. God will continue to prune me.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” Deut 31:6

Why am I confessing?

I felt really led to share because I am not a perfect Christian. I am one of those who knows that my sinful nature will always take over my second nature to be obedient to God.

“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV

That I too struggle with my faith walk. I think its great to see the highlight reel of life. To see how good it could be but let’s not forget and live in reality. We all struggle that’s why we need God, and we are also supposed to hold each other accountable.

“Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:1-2 NASB

You can’t hold someone accountable if they don’t tell you.  It’s also an opportunity to help someone else grow or relate. The facade of perfection has to stop. Because what are we genuinely seeking? Unless it’s to be more like Jesus, it is all in vain.

Plank Challenge?

So, I am giving all the things to Jesus second quarter and seeing where that takes me. I am going to give it my best try. I’ve done it in the past and it He has always surpassed my expectations or anything that I could have done on my own.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matt 11:28

Working on a Grateful Mindset

I am also doing a Challenge in April! I am beginning Easter Sunday and through the entire month of April!

Each day I will be planking for 60 seconds and saying “Thank you, God!” For the little and the big things.  Each day while planking I will be reciting or meditating Scripture!  

I want to invite you to join me? There is nothing to gain but a grateful perspective.

We did a plank “talk” challenge in Bibles and Bootcamps. Most of the women chose to meditate and recite their favorite scripture.  All were shocked at how much longer they held the plank with scripture. We call them “Power Verse” in #BaB.

One day I was thinking how amazing it would be to see women expressing gratitude to God; then planking came to mind-not because it rhymes with Thanks.  I just thought of my Beauties and how powerful it would be to see people praising God and thanking Him while planking.

Will you join me?

Join my event on Facebook and hopefully join a month of Praise and Thanks as we end our first quarter! Even if you do it privately on your own, I have some verses for you to use in your meditation.  If you do want to join me merely post on whatever Social Media platform you like (I will be on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter) and use and follow the hashtag #TYGod

Can you be grateful even with a little bit?

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