January Newsletter
This month’s scripture: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding.” Psalm 111:10
“What are your top three priorities? Have you planned and allowed time for them today?” -Becky Glenn
The above quote poses an interesting question, doesn’t it? How long has it been since you’ve actively thought about your priorities, much less cleared your schedule with the intention of having at them? That’s always a struggle for me, because I want to do everything! You too? And when you throw new hassles into your daily mix – whew! Out the window go the priorities right on the tail of good intentions. For example, we got a new puppy for our girls for Christmas. Trust me, a 5th child would have been easier. I feel leashed to that puppy. When I am home, instead of having several hours of productive cleaning or writing time, I follow the puppy around making sure she isn’t destroying something, chewing something or doing outside business in the house. In addition, I signed up for a commitment which is being sponsored by my Writing Group: to finish my current novel by the end of January. Sigh. I know this is just a season of over-commitment and it certainly isn’t something I normally practice. Nevertheless, like many of you, I feel overwhelmed, under-resourced and below par. So what do we do about that? Well, in the next season [a new day, week, month], we streamline our priorities. We cut back on our commitments. No. Seriously. I can hear you snorting up a storm out there in cyberspace! Do one less thing. Drop one activity before we take on a new one. Consider only taking on new tasks which lead you toward your goals or use your callings. Make God number one. Read from His Word. Soak up verses, carrying scripture cards with you, posting them on your mirrors and above your sinks. Dialogue with Him in prayer throughout your day. The Psalmist says, “In the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.” [Psalm 5:3] Ah, what hope there is while waiting in anticipation of what the Maker of the Stars has planned for us. Then, we will appreciate what is, stop living life on hold and affirm our families and those dearest to us by lavishing them with time. What better gift is there? Something to think about, anyway. God’s richest chocolate blessings on your home this 2010!
Fast Fact:
For the past 5 years, Max has been the #1 name for dogs. In 2009 it was eclipsed by the name Bella, likely after a main character in the Twilight sagas.
Fast Fact:
The average teen sends & receives almost 100 messages every day. That’s more than 6 times the amount sent in 2007!! [Nielsen Company, in Good Housekeeping, 127, 12/09] Yikes. Set a good example for your kids. Consider having them turn the phone into you from dinner and beyond. Make sure that dinner time and family nights are text free and set a good example with your own cell phone habits.
To Resolve:
Get enough rest that I am productive & feel my best.
Read a new translation of the Bible [or at least the New Testament] through this year.
Live my priorities by setting measurable reachable goals.
Clear 5 things out of every room in the house. Simple means less clutter to clean.
*Cindy’s workshop, Hot Chocolate for Couples will be featured on 500 Phil Waldrep Ministries Radio Stations on February 11th and 12th.