Choices

"Every time you make a choice you are turning the central part of you, the part of you that chooses, into something a little different from what it was before... either into a creature that is in harmony with God, ...or into one that is in a state of war with God. Each of us at each moment is progressing to the one state or the other." C.S. Lewis ~Mere Christianity

This is such a cool quote!! C. S. Lewis has a way to say it like no one else. We make choices every day, but we don't always check to see if they line up with God or not, unless they are major decisions. We only take note when we see that we are off track and wonder, "How did I get here?"

When choosing to be complaint free, we have to consciously screen every statement before we make it. (Or else move the bracelet again!) We are making a choice to speak in love as God has asked us, or let what ever pops into our head flow from our lips. (Not always a good idea!)

Ultimately, God has promised to continue the good work HE has started in us - and He plans to finish it!! He's not giving up on us and we can't give up on ourselves either. "For His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22-23

Keep choosing to walk in God's ways. He won't lead us astray - His ways lead to LIFE. Similarly, the words we choose should impart life and truth wherever possible. Keep persevering - the reward is worth it in the end

Selah Y

Twice today - no, Three Times

Well I only had to move my bracelet twice today. Once before going to work, and once watching a debate on TV tonight. Crazy politics - cutting each other down with their rude comments - I made a comment about their complaining. Then looked at Wayne and said, "I just complained, didn't I?" It got to me. :o(

I am using one of my charm bracelets for now. It has a charm that says "Words Touch the Heart" so I thought it is appropriate until I can find something better. :o)

As I am reading this over, I just realized that I have complained about them again!!! Oh well, onto the other wrist. Tomorrow I'll start again.

Set a Guard

The beginning of another 21 Day Challenge!!
This one is called "Watch Your Mouth"

The Power of Words has always been one of my favourite classes. Actually, it was the first class I taught at NLGH. Of course, I have revised it many times since then!!

I am following along with Cheryl at: http://21dayreformation.blogspot.com
The inspiration is from Oprah and these sites: http://acomplaintfreeworld.blogspot.com
http://acomplaintfreeworld.org/

The goal is to be "complaint free" - following the commandment: "Thou shalt not Whine!!" We will wear a bracelet and if we allow a complaint to slip out, we must switch it to our other wrist.

I have picked this verse (Psalm 141:3) because that's exactly what we must do - guard our mouth and watch out to not let our lips slip. It is so easy to pass off complaining as OK. It's not. Paul calls us to be content in all circumstances because frustration leads us to speak out things that we shouldn't, which then can lead us to sin. We must cut it off - disciplining our words to line up with what is pleasing to God.

Of course, we cannot really put a padlock on our lips. It is up to us to choose our words before we speak. Be careful not to be pulled in by others' negative conversations and WATCH YOUR MOUTH!!

Selah Y

The Race is On!

Ever feel like your day was just a blur? So many things to do, so many things coming at you all at once? Suddenly, someone fires the gun to start the race before you even knew you had to be ready to sprint. Now you are caught up in the "RUSH"! Just going with the flow, wherever they are headed, you are pulled along in their current. They have defined today's course, they have set the pace.

Before you know it, your time is gone and you are called to end today's race. Problem is, there is still so much to do, so much left undone. "Tomorrow is another day," they say. Hopefully it won't be as hectic.

Spring Season

Streams and rivers are melting, flowing cool and clear and fresh. The memories of ice and snow steadily growing dim, replaced by new life emerging, bringing color to dreary days. Birds chattering incessantly as they welcome the sunshine, warmer every day. Tiny flowers peeping up out of the cold, wet earth after laying dormant through their long winter slumber.

God's creation is awakening to the call of a new season, responding by reaching upwards toward the Source of all life. There is an energy that seems to rejuvenate us with each new day, as if we are recharging some inner battery. He is calling for us to shake off the weariness of our winter season and burst forth into this springtime, expecting to see Him at work in our lives.

Ice symbolizes hardness and rigid inflexibility. Winter's cold relates to harshness, restricted movement, and being contstrained from flowing freely.

Springtime releases a freedom to flow again, slowly melting and softening the frozen areas - renewing our strength - being revitalized and prepared to more forward. As this freedom emerges, let God surge through you first, and then pour it out to others. Be a stream bringing new life where winter's bitterness has withered and crushed, and brought hopelessness.

Spring is the season of resurrection power. Allow Him to bring forth those things that have been hidden and stored away for this time. Let Him release them to bring life and hope and healing as He refreshes His creation. Springtime is a time for renewal. Get ready to say, "Spring has sprung!" and watch it spring forth as His accomplishes His purposes for this season.

Selah Y

Day 21 - Assessing Goals

Here we are at the end of our 21 Day Reformation Challenge. Time for assessment. I found an interesting quote: Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishments. (Jim Rohn)

It is easy to make a goal - it can be anything - but is it something that can be accomplished in the time frame given? Is it realistic? When we shoot too high or cut our time too short, we become discouraged when we don't achieve the desired result. Some things can be changed in 21 days, others take longer, many take a lifetime.

It takes discipline to be consistant in any activity. Self-discipline is good - allowing God to change us is better - it will last longer. Anyone can change a behaviour or pattern for a limited time period. Lasting change takes a deeper, inner change. God looks on our hearts and works there. He wants more than just an outward change. He is working for eternal changes.

Our challenge has revealed more than we knew it would. If it didn't, it only touched the surface - what can already be seen. God reveals what's really underneath - then we can make real changes as we allow Him to reform us in that area.

There were unforseen obstacles. No one can totally predict what even one day will bring, let alone 21 days in a row. Another interesting quote: If you find a path with no obstacles, it probably doesn't lead anywhere. (Frank A. Clark) Easy goals don't take a lot to accomplish them. Harder goals go deeper and require more from us, but the rewards are more valuable.

I think it is no accident that the end of our 21 days also marks the beginning of a new season. God loves doing that. When you see something coming to a close, He always opens another door. This is simply the end of this chapter, not the end of the book. Our victories today may be measured by physical goals, but spiritually, God continues His work in our hearts. Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. (Philippians 1:6) He is not finished with any of us yet.

Rejoice in the victories for today. Guard the treasures God gave you along the way and remember the lessons from these 21 days (your own personal ones as well as the ones that were shared by others). Tomorrow begins the next chapter. Are you ready for the next adventure? He is waiting to reveal it.

Selah Y

Day 21 - My Goals

My Goals for the 21 Days of Reformation
1. Reduce my Busyness (clear the clutter)
2. Renew my writing (write something every day)

The second one I accomplished. :o) I was able to make an entry for every day and it has now "formed a habit" that I plan to keep. (I like blogging!) It was a realistic goal that I was able to complete. It required discipline (daily), but it was simple enough to fit the time frame. For the short term - success! The long term benefit will be flowing in an area I had allowed to be pushed aside. That's the real victory.

The first one was (and still is) harder to accomplish. This is the one that really needs God's help. It won't be changed in just 21 days - it's on going. Notice I said reduce my busyness and not eliminate it. That would not be realistic. I have cleared some of the clutter and there's more to do. With God's help, things will be put back in line with His plan for my life and in His timing. I can't continue being overloaded, it's not God's plan for me. :o)

Day 20 - First Day of Spring

The first day of Spring.
My favourite season. The sunshine is warmer, the snow melts away (hooray!!!), the grass turns green, the colours of new flowers popping up, and best of all, the butterflies will soon be back. :o)

I love this picture. Can you feel it? The warmth of the sunshine - the quiet gentleness of the young girl as she welcomes the butterfly - the peace of just sitting and enjoying the wonder of God's creation. No rush, no stress. Taking the time to reflect on God's goodness.

I love butterflies - they mean so many things to me. They are symbols of New Life (the caterpiller "dies" to its old life), Transformation (it doesn't look anything like the caterpiller did), Redemption (it breaks out of its cocoon "tomb"), Freedom (no limits - free to soar - wings to lift it above its former life), Beauty (so many brilliant colours and shapes), Delicacy (very intricate - easily crushed - vulnerable - handle with care), and Gentleness (it flutters in gracefully - not destructive or aggressive - very calming and peaceful).

As spring comes into full bloom, take time to enjoy God's creation. Take time to "stop and smell the roses." He paints the morning and evening skies - stop and take note of their beauty. Spring brings new life and new expectations. Don't be too busy to notice. Thank Him for each day of this new season and for what He is about to release next.

Selah Y

Day 19 - God's Calling

I was listening to John Bevere today on God TV (Internet). He was talking about really knowing the calling that God has for us (which we all know is important to find out). But he took it further than that. Here are some highlights:

We are to diligently seek God to find out what HE has specifically called us to do. If we don't know it, how can we know if and when we have completed it (Paul "finished his course"). It is like a race - the course is laid out (planned ahead of time) - if we don't know the course, how can we know where the finish line is? Or if we are off course? Pretty hard to stay on course!

When we know what God has called us to do - and we don't do it, or we do something else - this is disobedience. Obviously doing things that are wrong, or turning your back on Him and walking away from Christianity, these are disobedience to God. But he was saying that even doing good things, when they aren't what we are called to do, is disobedience.

We can't say, "I know You asked me to do _________, but I decided to do __________ instead." God will not take it in exchange for what He called us to do. Substitutions won't accomplish His plan. Doing good things will not release us from our responsibility to what He asked us to do. John Bevere went as far as to say that those good things that we did (that we weren't called to do) would, in the end, be burned up as wood, hay and stubble.

Imagine being asked to cook a meal. You decide to bake your favourite dessert instead, thinking, "It's always a big hit!!!" That's nice, but it wasn't what you were asked to do. The dessert IS great, that is not in dispute - but it doesn't fulfill the need of a good meal. The task has not been completed. The need was not met.

Are we busy doing good things that we haven't been asked to do? They aren't wrong in themselves. But the real question HAS to be: Are we busy doing what God has called us to do? THAT will accomplish SO much more than doing good things. God has a plan and a calling for each one of us. Do you know what He has for you? Are you walking in your calling?

Selah Y

Day 18 - Thoughts

"Once a new idea springs into existence, it cannot be unthought. There is a sense of immortality in a new idea."~~Edward de Bobo

This is an interesting quote. At first it sounds exciting, but in reality, it could have undesirable results. Try it right now - don't think about "eating chocolate." Did you picture it in your mind? The moment we speak it, hear it or read it - it becomes a thought in our mind. If we ponder any "thought," it will take root.

What chocolate item did you picture yourself eating? Would you like to have one now? Are you wondering if you have one in the house? It soon grows into planning an action to complete the thought planted. The thought can trigger a temptation to fulfill it. If the action is contrary to God's Word, we will sin if we fulfill it.

We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5

NO, I am NOT saying that eating chocolate is a sin!!! Just using an example we can all relate to. I am saying that we need to be careful what we are exposing our minds to. New ideas are GREAT!! - IF they are in line with God's Word. If not, they set themselves up against God. We don't want to be found there!!

Remember, a thought cannot be "unthought" - once released, we must DO something with it. Ponder on it - or - cast it out. Doubts are formed by "little thoughts" that question the validity of something. Suspicion is fueled by thoughts compounding the "what ifs." Deception believes the lies the enemy plants to draw us away from God's truth. Mistrust grows when security is unsure. The list goes on and on.

Let's seriously guard our hearts and minds - keeping them firmly focused on God and godly things. Don't give the enemy a foothold. Bring every thought/idea into submission to the Lover and Protector of our soul - our Lord and King - Jesus Christ!! Prepare your mind to receive HIS thoughts and ideas. Clear the clutter and get ready for "Heavenly downloads"!!

Selah Y

Day 17 - Never Forsaken

God is forever Faithful, even when we don't feel Him right beside us. His Love and Protection are constants in our lives. You can depend on them.

He promises to NEVER forsake us.
Never means NOT EVER.

In the times when God seems far away, we must remember His promises. Too often circumstances can and do overshadow them and loom larger than our security in Him. Once this happens, our minds explore all the endless possible senarios and their devastating consequenes. This leads to fear, discouragement, and ultimately despair and hopelessness. Our response is: I give up!! I'm all alone. It's too hard.

We aren't meant to handle life's problems alone. They WILL overwhelm us if we try to deal with them in our own strength. We NEED God's help.

I waited patiently for the LORD; He turned to me and heard my cry. Psalm 40:1

He will ALWAYS hear our cry (the cries of His children). He does answer - though it may not be in the way we hoped or expected. We must trust His answer - trust His provision for our time of need.

I can do everything through Him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13 NIV

It is stated even stronger in the Amplified Bible:

I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency].

HE gives us ALL we need to face every cicumstance of life. Our part? Seek His answers and Trust Him to give us the strength to accomplish it.

Selah Y

Day 16 - Family Treasured

Busy, busy, but never too busy for my little grandson. I am babysitting Isaac tonight. After such a frustrating, hectic 2 days, holding him and rocking him to sleep has made my week. :o)

I am very thankful for my children and grandchildren. Family is irreplacable - each one holds a very special place in my heart. Once they become part of the family, their place is secured. It is never the same without them. They cannot be forgotten and when they are absent, a definite void is felt. They are treasures God has given to us.

Selah Y

Day 15 - Ride the Wave

BUSY does not begin to describe my day today. The photocopier is jammed and out of commission, but the Bulletin still had to be printed today. I had to juggle between the Mac & PC computers, change Quark files to pdf so the PC could read and print them on the old laser printer, piece them together and then print them on the old photocopier in the pit (which is very poor quality). I accomplished this all in time for Mary to fold.

THEN I had to finish preparing the brochure for our conference mail out with the same frustrating process (after confirming the schedule at 4:00). I finally got it finished and started printing them on the old printer (very slow). Bless Mary - she stayed with me until 7:10 when the printer finally overheated and shut down.

In the end, the Bulletin is finished and I will finish printing the brochures tomorrow for the Bulletin and the REGNR8 service tomorrow night. The mail out should go out tomorrow as well.

There was no way to "NOT be busy" today. It's not a failed goal - it's accomplishment in spite of all the hindrances and distractions. Some days are like that. You have to ride the wave or be washed overboard. I choose to stay on top.

God promises to give us what we need for EACH day. He remains Faithful. Always. Sometimes we don't recognize His provision, but look closer, you may have overlooked it because it didn't come in the form you expected. Seek it out. It will be there. If you can't find it, ask Him. He's waiting to answer your cry in your time of need.

Selah Y

Day 14 - God's Workmanship

Ephesians 2:10 (Amplified): For we are God's [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live].

I love God's variety. He has created each one of us to be unique - no two the same. It must be His creative nature. It allows us to be ourselves - who we really are. If we are HIS workmanship, then there can be no error in the Master's design. We are fit for the purpose He has for us.

Let us walk the path He has prepared. I am sure He is smiling as He waits for us to discover the treasures He has stored up for us - just waiting to be uncovered. Are you ready to find hidden treasure? Seek Him and you'll discover the greatest treasure of all - His love for us.

Selah Y

Day 13 - Pulled

Did you ever succeed in one area, only to slip in another? When we focus too much on any one thing, we can become out of balance. "Too much of a good thing" is really a true statement.

My goals are sometimes in conflict. I am writing again - every day :o) - which takes more time, and thus makes me "busier" than before. Keeping the Blog is really fun and I am enjoying it emmensely. (Thank you, Cheryl!!) I am even starting a second blog - to display some of my writings (past and hopefully, more in the future). This again adds more to my schedule - in direct conflict with reducing my "busyness."

Ever feel like you are being pulled in 2 directions at once or that you've come up against an unmovable obstacle? Sometimes pure will-power is not enough. Perseverence and determination are good, but do we really "have the victory"? We can wear ourselves out trying to "overcome" in our own strength. Jesus said His yoke is easy and His burden is light. If we are wearing ourselves out, we need to stop and check to see if we are fighting the right battle.

Selah Y

Day 12 - God's Timing

Have you ever felt that things were going at a snail's pace? We are often impatient with how God is moving in our lives. We have our own ideas of how things should go and what time frame should be involved. However, God's timing is perfect (even when we can't see how that can be true). Thank God He slows us down.

We live in a "microwave" society. Everything should be ready in 5 minutes. Do you remember before the microwave? Where did we ever get the time to prepare meals?? We had to take the time.

There are no shortcuts with God. He is interested in the journey, not just if we arrive at the destination. It is in the journey that He develops our character (and our patience). That's where we learn to recognize His voice, trust Him heart, and obey His directions - even when we don't understand why. It makes an imprint on our heart that will never be erased. His change in us is not temporary - we can make it permanent with His help, if we let Him do all that He wants to do in our lives.

21 Days to Reformation!!! or is it really just 21 steps in our journey to being more like Him, conforming to His image, walking closer to His heart, surrendering to His plan for our lives, fulfilling His destiny for our future.

Selah Y

Day 11 - God's Plan for Your Day

Sometimes there is no choice about being busy or not, the choice is made for you - just go with the flow. No matter what your plans were for the day, it is now following a different lead.

We don't know what each day holds for us. God does. If we will listen closely, He will give us everything we need for each day. It's a promise. Matthew 6:33-34 says, "But seek first HIS kingdom and HIS righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."

It is impossible to pre-plan for every possible situation that could occur (not to mention the wasted energy it uses pondering them) In the end, we must walk out the path laid before us, trusting God and His guidance every step of the way. "Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?" Matthew 6:27

Ultimately, our lives are in His Hands. If He has a specific plan for us (and yes, He does), then won't He have the answers we need to walk it out wisely? He is waiting for us to ask Him to show us. Begin each day by asking Him what HIS plan is for our day, and we will save a lot of time, frustration and disappointment.

Selah Y

Day 10 - Truth

Truth. What is truth? Who defines what is true? When truth is based only on what is seen, it becomes dependant on the interpretation of the one who is relaying those facts/events. It can only be related to what is already understood. (very limited) When some of the facts are missing, it is like having a few pieces of a puzzle and saying you know what the whole picture looks like. The missing pieces have to be "filled in" to make it whole. Sometimes the "added pieces" are made to fit so that they will confirm the believed result. (If this is true....then this must be true) What if a new piece turns up that doesn't fit that picture? What is done with it? It will either be dismissed as "false" or the whole picture must be re-evaluated. Sadly, some will hold onto the "original picture" even when there is proof otherwise.

God's Truth is always true. You can count on it. No matter what the circumstances. There will never be an amendment to what HE says is true. Change may be necessary on OUR part when we find out that our interpretation was not based on the whole picture, but only on our understanding of the portion we saw. We must remain teachable and open to what God wants to show us. Seek HIM and His guidance every step of the way.

His Truth will prevail!!
Selah. Y

Spring Forward

Day 9

Not much to say tonight. I haven't been feeling well today and I fell asleep after supper. I had a huge problem with my email at work (damaged database??). Still don't know what exactly that means except I had to totally delete the info and my personal email accounts. One good thing out of it all. I backed up everything on the computer. (something I procrastinate doing - except for the accounting files)

As a result, I was not able to send out a reminder to set the clocks ahead on Saturday night. Pass the word!! It's really early this year. It's always interesting to watch when people come in on Sunday morning. ;o)

Cheryl Y

Day 8

A good day. Busy, but not overwhelming. I got a lot accomplished. I did keep my goal by not adding another event to my schedule. Yes, I had to say, "No, I cannot attend." I was commended for having good boundaries. I did our taxes tonight instead. Another job complete. :o) Tying up loose ends is a good thing.

I am keeping the second goal by making an entry even though it is late. I found this picture today and I really liked it. It is still cold here and we have some snow (not as much as Barrie!!!), but spring is coming soon.

Selah Y

Day 7

Blogging is fun. :o) It also takes time. It may be in direct conflict with my #1 goal of reducing my "busyness." I am learning about setting up my page and links to add to my Blog. I found a cool one this morning, but I haven't figured out how to add it yet. It says: "As for me and my blog, we will serve the Lord." I like it. :o)

My lesson for my Ladies group tonight was "Putting aside Anxiety, Running with Peace." We talked about putting off worry and frustration, and walking in God's peace. Interestingly, UCB this morning on the way to work had a speaker talking about depression and what he was saying applied directly to my topic and I used it in my class. If I wasn't "running a little late," I would have missed it. ;o)

Side note: My Dad was on the 6:00 news. :o) Revenue Canada has a computer glitch for Income Tax returns and he was interviewed as one of the H&R Block managers in Ottawa. Cool!! Go Dad!!

Day 6 - God's Pace

I heard a quote on UBC on the way home from work today. (Hope I get it right)

"God does not accelerate to our pace - we need to slow down and get into step with Him."

In the wilderness, God provided direction with a pillar of fire by night and a cloud by day. When the pillar or cloud moved, they had to follow (or be left behind). It means "paying attention" to what God is saying/doing RIGHT NOW. There is no "pause button" until it is convienient to listen to what He is saying, or negotiating for better conditions or alternate instructions.

We need to be tuned in to what God is telling us. Submitting to Him requires obedience and action - doing things His way and in His timing. Doing "the right thing" at the wrong time won't have the same effect. Doing nothing doesn't accomplish what we were asked to do. Doing something "good" doesn't mean God initiated it nor will He necessarily bless it.

Laying aside busyness has to be partnered with walking in step with Him. Only then can we be doing what He has called us to do - following His guidance and His plan for us. He knows the itinerary we need to follow - keeping it will keep us in His perfect timing. Even God rested from His busyness of Creation. :o)

I did well with priorities today. It was very hectic at times, but I stayed on task. :o)

For my second goal, I am writing my entry earlier tonight. Probably partly because I got my topic on the way home from work. It feels good to be writing again. :o)

Selah Y

Day 5 - Busy, Busy

Monday, Monday - should be translated - BUSY, BUSY!! Well, it's pretty difficult to change my work schedule for Mondays - it will always be a busy day. Fortunately, it is usually quiet in other areas which allows me to get most of my work finished.

How have I worked on my 21 days of reformation today? I guess I would have to say - "avoiding distractions." I am very easily distracted (my ADD kicks in). I have to stay very focused on Mondays. Some things just have to wait until another day. Prioirities again. That "P" word!!

There are urgent needs that demand attention immediately. In a true emergency, you drop everything and do them. But some things are only perceived as urgent or presented as though they can't be delayed, but are just pressing requests made out of impatience on the part of the other person. If you "pick up" the urgency, it won't have to wait to be fulfilled. If you aren't "getting it," they can switch to manipulating you into doing it for them NOW. "I know you're busy, but..." Some things ARE easily accomplished and only take a few minutes. Some things require more time than revealed or anticipated.

Which one has the prioirity right now? That's the question. It has to be decided. Time is limited. Every hour has only 60 minutes - no more and no less. We can't really stretch it. We only stretch to the limits what we try to cram into that 1 hour and then the only ones stretched is us. Is the "To Do List" for today really possible? Is it realistic?

You are not responsible to cover someone's lack of preparation at the expense of putting youself behind in your own responsibilities. In the parable of the 10 virgins, 5 were prepared and 5 were not. There is a time for sharing, but also a time when it is right to say, "I'm sorry, I can't help you out of this one." It requires saying "NO" or at least "I can try to fit it in later." (When exactly is "later" when I can get everything caught up??)

I am very much guilty of trying to cram too much into an "alloted" time slot. Usually when I am late, it is because I have tried to do "one more thing" before leaving. The clock keeps on ticking. I often find things take longer than I thought they would and usually when I added more to the original job....... Defining limitations....... um..... maybe this needs to be my next topic??

Not tonight - I'm already into "overtime." (again) :o)

Selah Y

Day 4

We RELAXED this morning with our friends - no schedule. It was so nice to just spend time together. We drove home from Barrie this afternoon. What a gorgeous day!!! The sun was shining and besides being a little windy, the weather was perfect. Thank God since we brought Patsy's bed with us!! The mattress was stuffed into the van and the box spring tied to the roof.

Tonight we prepared for the Blessings Life Group we are starting on Monday night. I am "busy" getting last minute things prepared, but overall I'm ready. I have felt the "crunch" tonight, as we stayed longer than planned - again - the time in 1 day is 24 hours. If we "overspend" in one portion of the day, it has to be extracted from somewhere else. :o(

Tonight I am catching up with my postings (I couldn't connect to Internet in Barrie) and I am running into "overtime."

Have to fly!! Cheryl

Day 3

It was a busy day. We relaxed and visited with Dave & Vicky in the morning, but had to prepare for Shelley's girls' Birthday party in the afternoon. It was at McDonald and then back to her house. The kids (probably around 18) had a blast, including my grandson, Isaac. He kept up to the "big kids" pretty good considering he is only 17 months.

Not really a good day to accomplish goals. It was pretty much dictated by someone else's schedule. Sometimes the "busy" is unavoidable - it comes with accepting the invitation. Don't add more things, just go along for the ride!!!

Day 2 - My Goals

Well I think I have my 2 goals: Reduce my "busyness" and renew my writing.

Getting started:
1. Busyness - clear the clutter
2. Restore writing - write something every day

My ladies group topic for this week was putting off Busyness for Rest. I have been way too busy for months and I am now in the process of "clearing my plate" where I am overloaded. One of the points in the lesson that stood out to me was an article I found by John Maxwell called "Clearing the Clutter." This includes Calendar clutter - you know - when the list of everything you have to do doesn't fit in the little calendar square. How many vote for an 8 (or even 9) day week? We think it would allow us to have more time to "get it all done", but would we really have more time? Or just fill it with more things to do? I would do the latter.

God knew what He was doing when He made the week 7 days. His plan was for us to work 6 days and REST on the seventh. He made a day 24 hours and that we have to REST for a full third of EACH day. Our bodies work better and our emotional well being will be better as well - able to handle the requirements of the day.

When we are overloaded, we can't keep these guidelines, so we reduce them - just a little - to make it all fit. It works for awhile, but soon it is overflowing the boundaries again. Then we reduce it a little more. Soon it becomes "the norm" and every day is overloaded. That's where Prioirities come in. That's where I am at right now. What can I do today and what has to wait for another day? The "wait list" is getting longer and longer. :o(

My good friend and mentor once told me this when I was overloaded and frustrated and I have never forgotten it. "Ask yourself: 1. What has God called you to? and 2. Are you doing it?" I know what God has called me to and I know what my giftings are.

We had a wonderful missionary lady stay with us last weekend. She made a statement that has stuck with me. "If you aren't doing what God has called you to do, you will not be satisfied with what you are doing." Even if what you are doing is good, it is not what God has designed for you to do. You will feel like something is missing - because it is!!!

Another quote from my lesson: "We need to be doing His business, not our busyness." What is wood, hay and stubble and what is done for HIS Kingdom that will last? That will determine what our prioirity should be.

So how am I applying this to clearing my current calendar clutter? We are away for the weekend to visit with friends (who we haven't visited since June!!!!) and "forcing myself' to relax and not work. This is a desperately needed break. I NEED the rest.

#2 is starting to be fulfilled by joining this blog. It will require me to "write" every day for 21 days. This will "create the habit" of writing my thoughts out again. My hope (and prayer) is then to re-release the anointing in writing as well that has become dormant - not because God doesn't have anything to speak to me or through me, but because I haven't made time for it. I know from before that when I set the time apart and I begin to write what I am feeling Him saying, it just flows out. God help me to rekindle this gift that I have allowed to subside.

That's it for tonight. I can't get on the internet so I will post it later. Thankfully I brought my laptop with me, not to work, but to keep my commitment to doing this for the 21 days - no matter where I am. :o)

Selah Y
(which means - pause and think about it!!)

21 Days to Reformation

The challenge is to take the next 21 days to journey towards reformation in some area of our lives. I have been thinking about it ever since I read Cheryl's "invitation" earlier this evening. The timing is right on. I am teaching a Ladies group using the book "Becoming a Woman of Freedom" and last night's lesson was specifically dealing with an area I need to improve.

Cheryl said: The word REFORMATION means radical change for the better. I certainly need improvement in this area. I will pray about specific goals tonight and post them tomorrow.

Getting Organized

Well here goes! My first Blog. :o)

I set up this blog after accepting a challenge from my friend, Cheryl. (21 Days to Reformation)

Be patient with me as I learn how to customize!!! As many of you know, I LOVE graphics. :o)