stepping over fear to love a messy world
I’m not naturally brave. But many times I find my braveness and bigness through those around me.
To the mom who leaves an abusive relationship in the dark of the night with a suitcase in hand and three small children in tow not knowing where you will go or how you will provide for your babies — you make me want to be brave.
We’re all chasing after something, something that we think will make us happy — comfort, success, a bigger house, or someone’s approval. But if we are all honest, it feels like trying to catch the wind. ~ Jennie Allen
My heart stirs and pounds with the words in Jennie Allen’s new study — Chase. It’s a constant battle to not live my life chasing after things I feel will bring more worth to myself — money, titles, and prestige. Even laying down the need to control my image and what others think of me is a daily battle. Maybe you can relate?
It’s been a month and I’m still trying to grasp the poverty that I have seen.
It is one thing to watch The Discovery Channel and see shows on poverty. It takes your breath away as you watch people care for their young in horrific living conditions on that channel. But nothing will prepare your heart for staring down that depth of poverty in person.
Down here in south Texas the March winds are blowing full force. Signs of spring are beginning to bud as there is anticipation of what’s to come.
I know you are longing for a day to put your closets back together, to spruce up your bedroom, or to organize those kitchen drawers. Spring break is around the corner and hopefully you can step out of your routine long enough for such as that.
But maybe the aching you are feeling within is your spirit is the crying out for you to spend time deep cleansing your inward self? Your soul.
I’m thrilled to be guest posting over at Unknown Jim’s today. Hop over and talk to us about that C word — CHANGE! Here’s a sneak peak . . .
Recently, when I said changes were coming, I meant in me!
I’m learning that sometimes you have to put yourself out there and have the accountability of others to push you forward. Especially when your move requires change. I haven’t met a person yet who thrived off change, and I’m certainly not one of them.
Now, stop by Unknown Jim’s and let’s talk about the 3 reasons change is scary!
What are you thoughts? Do you thrive off change or is it scary?
For years I’ve asked God for a little glance into the difference I might be making. For years, He has been silent regarding this question. So, I continually wondered “Am I even making a difference?”
Of course, I should know it is not about seeing the difference you are making – it is instead about being obedient to whatever God asks you to do. I get that – seriously I do. But yet, why do I still need the confirmation that what I say and do makes a difference? Can anyone else relate?
Sometimes you just need to sit down, reflect, and decide on what needs to change. That’s a hard process. Sometimes it is very gut-wrenching, because change isn’t easy for most of us. Please don’t tell me you thrive in an ever-changing environment! I’ll be so jealous.
I am. And with all this talk of the new year and goals, I feel like digging my heels in. But as I’ve been reflecting on my steps for 2013, a few things became clear with the help of mentors. One of the many changes that I need to work on is my writing voice. I’ve drug my feet. I’ve procrastinated. I don’t want to move, but here I am right in the process of trying to be brave. (brave – I think that should be my word for 2013)
You see, I’m not much about being politically and religiously correct.
