There are fourteen different types of biblical rest and in A Woman's Right To Rest , author Denise George explains how exhausted, overworked women can incorporate them into their lives. Women today have been told that they can have it all, but also feel compelled to do it all. I have always liked the quote " If you want a job done fast, give it to a busy person."Unfortunately, too many women want to prove that saying to be true. The demands and wants of family, career, church, additional activities, and society pile up, and many women just keep finding time to do for everyone else, and take less time for themselves. Why? Mrs. George says it quite simply:"Many have never been given permission to rest." Does that sound like you?
This is a book I wish someone had given to me many years ago. I have learned that I can say no---and the world will continue to spin, but it took a while for me to break away from the feelings of guilt! However, I also regret some of the times I was so busy racing around that I missed a lot of opportunities to enjoy my life and the people in it. Even now, I still saw areas of Biblical rest I have neglected. Naturally, I read this book quickly for review purposes, but I have full intentions of going through it again at a slower pace, and utilizing it as part of my own devotional time. Another part that I loved about the book is that it is also made for small groups. If you are looking for a book to use in a women's group, this is the perfect one to engage their interest and encourage them to take much needed time to relax and refresh.
I received this book from Leafwood Publishers in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A brief synopsis of the movie (from the FB page): When a group of best friends decide to go to a marriage retreat in the mountains for no deeper reasons than to relax and have a little fun, they discover the true state of their marriages and how far apart they have drifted. When it seems like all hope is lost for them, true love is revealed and they soon discover it's not what they are missing in their relationships but who. Ultimately, they begin their journey finding their way back to the ONE they love.
Watch this video with producer/actor Anna Zielinski and her husband Matthew Florida about "date nights":
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Anna & Matthew
Annelie Rudlaff of Christian Film Database (CFDb) recently interviewed both Anna and Matthew. I encourage you to read them both!
I have been thinking a lot lately about my desire to escape. It seems that I have put so many things on hold throughout my life. When this happens, whenthathappens...then I can live the way I want to. Not that life has been bad; I have enjoyed it----- despite having regrets over a few decisions.
When I was a child, I had plans for when I grew up. Well, I ended up 17 and pregnant. Marriage, the funeral of my son (who only lived 2 months), and the decision to have more children meant that I would postpone things...until the kids were in school. The first one started to school, and my marriage ended. So, raising and supporting children alone became the norm, with thoughts of "when the children leave home...".
The oldest turned 18, and my family was involved in a wreck. The wreck was 18 years ago (8/13/94), and I still have not fully recovered from the injuries. A year later, there was a glimmer of escape with a promise of training. (I always wanted to return to school. While it isn't much, I am rather proud of the A.A. Degree I received at the local community college. A Liberal Arts degree did little other than making me a well-rounded conversationalist---but I accomplished a goal!) Then, my oldest returned with a broken marriage, an 11 month old son, and 8 months pregnant with a daughter.
That basically started Motherhood: Part Two. I postponed my plans so I could always be available to baby-sit while my child rebuilt her life, and I was happy to do it; I wanted a better life for my children. Not long after they all moved out of my house, though, my youngest child's son needed someone to step in and raise him. Once again I shoved back my thoughts of "escape" and took on the challenge of legal custody and single grandparenting. My sons did what they could to help support me, esp my middle child. Actually, there was even more fun this time. I had always been involved with my kids' school activities, but now I could do it full time. My kids are grateful that I waited until grandkids before I found out the fun of dressing in costumes for various school events. I am still shocked I did it! :)
Don't misunderstand: my children and grandchildren have always brought tremendous joy in my life. There has been heartbreak, anger, frustration, etc., but that is part of life. Time spent with them was worth every moment and I can't regret these years...even if I could have cheerfully strangled each one for various reasons over the years. Family and loyalty are important...plus God gave them to me to raise. Sadly, I let them (and Him) down numerous times...because I simply gave up.
What I regret is the chains of depression, poverty, despondency, fear, poor choices, and health issues that I have allowed to overtake me. With each setback, I have gained more weight, lost more ability to move, had to rely more on government handouts, withdrawn more into myself, had more serious health issues, and lost the ability to dream. It has reached the point of paralysis---not in body, but in confidence, trust, dreams, and hope. Being around people I know takes every ounce of confidence I can summon. (Sometimes I suspect there is a bit of an actor within me.) The thought of meeting new people, especially those whom I have come to care about through social media, is terrifying. I must keep a barrier erected. It makes it worse as I read comments that people do not realize describe me either physically, financially, or emotionally. That is why I frequently assure people that they really do not want to meet me.
During the past month or so, I have watched post after post deriding people who are on government handouts. I don't know if it makes anyone feel better, but I do not buy (or use) illegal drugs and I have never purchased lobster. It does break my heart and my spirit a bit more as I continue to have to use these benefits. I have even considered suicide, although the irony is that the taxpayer will have to cover the disposal of my body. But, I do try to volunteer as often as I can to give back to the community. I know that the internet is a luxury, but there have been kids here who needed it for homework. We don't have a car, and walking to the library--if it is open--isn't always an option. But, I use social media to promote and pray for people and projects; it is all I have to offer. And, I would gladly take a paying job to get off of all benefits. Instead, it looks like I am going to have to break down and apply for even more as health issues worsen a bit, income has dropped even lower, and family issues have arisen. I was recently told that I should just learn to trust God (and to read my Bible). Trusting God has been the only way I have survived for my entire adult life! However I have immersed myself within the power and clutches of the various "enemies" of fear, failure, rejection...and not trusted God enough to surrender those parts of my life to Him. So, I guess that person has a point. (PS: I do read my Bible. And, I actually try to apply it to my life.)
A favorite passage of Scripture of mine is Psalm 25:
1 Lord,I turn to You.2 My God, I trust in You. Do not let me be disgraced; do not let my enemies gloat over me. 3 No one who waits for You will be disgraced; those who act treacherously without cause will be disgraced. 4 Make Your ways known to me, Lord; teach me Your paths. 5 Guide me in Your truth and teach me, for You are the God of my salvation; I wait for You all day long. 6 Remember, Lord, Your compassion and Your faithful love,for they have existed from antiquity.7 Do not remember the sins of my youth or my acts of rebellion; in keeping with Your faithful love, remember me because of Your goodness, Lord.8 The Lord is good and upright; therefore He shows sinners the way. 9 He leads the humble in what is right and teaches them His way. 10 All the Lord’s ways show faithful love and truth to those who keep His covenant and decrees. 11 Because of Your name, Yahweh,forgive my sin, for it is great.12 Who is the man who fears the Lord? He will show him the way he should choose. 13 He will live a good life, and his descendants will inherit the land.14 The secret counsel of the Lord is for those who fear Him, and He reveals His covenant to them. 15 My eyes are always on the Lord, for He will pull my feet out of the net.16 Turn to me and be gracious to me, for I am alone and afflicted. 17 The distresses of my heart increase;bring me out of my sufferings. 18 Consider my affliction and trouble, and take away all my sins. 19 Consider my enemies; they are numerous, and they hate me violently. 20 Guard me and deliver me; do not let me be put to shame, for I take refuge in You. 21 May integrity and what is right watch over me, for I wait for You.22 God, redeem Israel, from all its distresses.
********************************************************* Of course, my enemies are not people. At least, I know of none. :) But I do allow enemies of fear, depression, pride, anger, distrust, bitterness, etc. to triumph when I know that battle belongs to the Lord. In Hebrews 13, Deuteronomy 31 and Joshua 1 (along with many other places), God assures us that He will NEVER leave us not forsake us. God is with us ALWAYS!!!
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But now, I think it is time I turn my Escape Plan into a plan of action. It may mean swallowing my pride and utilizing even more government handouts to help me get on my feet so I may be able to more effectively serve Him and others through Him. I haven't even called my dr for an appt when health issues have worsened...because it is a "free" service. I may have to apply for disability. I may have to trust people and not automatically expect rejection. And if they do reject me...Jesus loves me. (I may often think He doesn't like me, but I do know He loves me.) I don't know where my escape plan will lead me. Away from where I live? Maybe. I just want to be open to all possibilities, no matter where they lead. However, even if it means I live the rest of my life right here where I am, I want to escape from this pit of despondency and despair and to live in the center of God's Plan for MY Life!! To paraphrase and personalize Psalm 37:24, 'Though I may stumble, I will not fall, for the Lord upholds me with His hand.' Even though, I am kinda hoping no one ever reads this (I am posting it more as a reminder to myself)...if you do, please say a prayer! Thanks!!! :)
Benjamin Franklin is quoted as saying, "Many men die at 25 and aren't buried until they are 75." This book is intended to wake up these people.
Fully Aliveuncovers forgotten signs of life in a culture seemingly filled with the opposite. Through action steps that led to his physical, mental, social, and spiritual health, Ken Davis recounts his journey back to the land of the living and the signs of life he found along the way.
The anchoring focus is based on the apostle Paul's quest for life, when he said, "I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection." A power greater than death is available for what we face today? Who doesn't want a piece of that? (from the publisher)
This book came along just when I needed it. It is filled with encouraging stories, practical ideas, and humor. Throughout the book, Ken tells the reader that there is so much more to life than just existing until death. Age, poor health, obesity, depression, retirement: whether you are facing all, some, or even a different set of obstacles, there is hope to LIVE as long as you breathe. Actually, Ken encourages you to breathe hard as you give all you have in life. When circumstances are crushing your spirit, shove back.
This is a book that will inspire you to find the passion you once had to enjoy every moment instead of shuffling slowly with your head bowed in defeat. It may be a step-by-step or moment-by-moment progress...but make the effort to move!! Fear can either paralyze you or it can get your heart pumping and your legs moving. This is definitely a book for anyone who wants to live life to the fullest.
You can purchase this book through Thomas Nelson, Amazon, ChristianBook (CBD), or other great retailers.
Ken Davis website: Ken Davis
Ken Davis on Twitter
Ken Davis on Facebook
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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com <http://BookSneeze®.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 <http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_03/16cfr255_03.html> : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Look to the skies!! Theannual Perseid Meteor Showeris back and the peak viewing time is Aug. 10-13, 2012. This weekend will provide a perfect time for creating special memories with your family. The photo on the right reminded me of the Christmas I got a telescope and my dad helping me to set it up. Just as this scene is one that proves to be a pivotal point in the relationship of the parent and child in Beyond The Farthest Star, it was a special moment with my dad. Years later, I wanted unforgettable moments like that with my own children.
When my kids were younger, we lived in the country and could see an amazing number of stars. In Genesis 15:5, God tells Abram, "Look up at the heavens and count the stars--if indeed you can count them.", and just think---we each see only a small portion of them! Even a quiet night was special (and I must admit 2 of them were not thrilled when I hauled them out in the middle of a cold night to go view Halley's Comet with my astronomy class) but their astonishment and delight as we watched meteor showers with friends really caused us to marvel at God's creation!! Even as adults, they still talk about those nights and the fun we had.
If you are into camping, this is a fantastic weekend to get out and sleep under the stars. Actually, my granddaughter and I unintentionally did that 2 years ago! In mild hopes of spotting a few "shooting stars" despite living too near streetlights for a great view, we stretched out on blankets in my backyard to talk and watch the skies. We woke up at dawn! Cait saw 2 and I missed both, but we both gained a precious memory of time spent together. Stiff, sore muscles from sleeping on the ground, but IT WAS WORTH IT!!
Recently I won a book that I love! If anyone in your household has any interest in stargazing, I highly recommend The Stargazer's Guide To The Night Sky by Dr. Jason Lisle! It's worth it just for the fascinating photos. I also found a couple of articles that will give you more info about the Perseid Meteor Shower and give you some fun ideas for your family, along with some options if watching online is your only choice (or comfort level!!).
Families are meant to be treasured, and you will never regret taking the time you spend with them as you talk, share your faith & special moments, and let the ones you love know just how much they mean to you. You never know what a difference the memories of the moments will have or the impact they may have. Whether you are alone, with family, or with friends....relax, & spend some time this weekend stargazing!! What you discover will be----INDESCRIBABLE!!**********************************************************
Psalm 147:4 "He counts the stars and calls them all by name."
In “Ramblings From The Shower”, author Faye Bryant shares some of the thoughts that have come her way during the mundane task of everyday hygiene, and how those thoughts have compelled her to ask, “What about this, God? What do You think?”
Follow along as Faye shares through personal experience and revelation her conclusions on just what God does think.
Faye Bryant is an outspoken advocate for authentic Christianity, having lived as a mask-wearer for years. She has spoken before several groups on living real and loving raw. She has served on a church staff for over ten years. She is also a hobbyist photographer, a history buff and a menace at trivia games. She has been a wife… then an ex-wife… and is a wife again. Mom… then step-mom. Then step-grandmom. She has been rejected… then accepted. Abused… then loved. And she has learned how to love in return. She was whole… then cancer. She has battled with fear… then was brought to a place of peace. Now she is facing the future with hope and confidence in God. Meeting life right where it happens, through a variety of experiences, Faye has learned that life can hurt, but God’s love is real, and God never expects us to go it alone, or be something other than what He has called us to be. Through her warm and witty sense of humor, Faye now shares her faith and love for God alongside her husband Jack, through their church in the mountains of East Tennessee. (from the publicist)
My expectations of this book was that it would be humorous, and one that I could quickly read...and just as quickly forget. You know, sort of a "mind candy" since I have read several serious books lately. Instead, I got a book that made me smile, and made me weep. Instead of a quick read, I began to slow down to savor the words. As Faye shared the experiences of herself and other people who have touched her life, it is obvious that God is just waiting for us to share our burdens with Him and with others so we may heal from wounds we experience. Even moments ago, as I opened the book to refresh my memory about a point, the page that randomly opened was one that spoke very clearly on an issue I struggle with and refuse to remedy. While I haven't shared some of the situations that are discussed in the book, the raw emotion and honesty do cause one to reconsider ones own life. Honestly, humor is every bit as healing to me, and I do appreciate Faye's outlook. I have often commented that God gave me an offbeat sense of humor to counter-act the depths of depression I fall in and I enjoy reading books by others who can see the funny side of things. Faye Bryant has a way to see the humor, the hurt, and to help others find the way to lead to God's healing. Whether it is our own burden or a friend's that we are helping to shoulder, this is a book that is honest and will make you re-examine some of your attitudes. You will enjoy the random ramblings and will feel refreshed and renewed at the end. You can follow Faye blogs at fayebryant.com and tweets at @rfbryant. You can purchase a copy of this book at Amazon.
I received a free copy of this book/Ebook/Product to review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC Regulations. I am part of The CWA Review Crew.
Hey, I am asking for your support. Some of you may have seen that I am a part of a new non-profit inCullman, AL called The Link Of Cullman County. We are building community (partnering with others) with the main focus of breaking the cycle of poverty in Cullman County. We are doing what we believe God has given us a vision to do in way of implementing educational programs that will help people's lives be transformed and moved from a state of dependency to self-sufficiency. To make that happen, we need money to support us. The good news is that I am not asking you for cash...just to vote for us:
People's Bank of North Alabama is running a FB Charity Drive Contest where you can vote once a day for a charity of your choice to win cash to support their cause. The Link of Cullman County is one of 35 that made it into the Top 10 which we means will receive a minimum of $2500.Your vote can help us get to the Top 3 to win the Grand Prize of $11,666!!
And then share it with your friends. Your vote can make the difference! Remember you can vote once a day in a 24 hour period until August 8th. Spread the word and let's break the cycle of poverty in Cullman!
