February 22, 2010

Changes (for the better)

 
(photo google)

Well, today is the day. Actually, Ash Wednesday was the day, but I'm just now filling you all in. I am making some changes in my life.

Have you ever had an experience where it seemed like God was trying to tell you something? Like he was trying to speak directly to you? Well, he's been calling me for a while. And after leaving a few voice mails, I'm returning his calls.

There has been a series of events that have spoken to me over the past few days. First, my church started doing a New Testament reading challenge to get us in the habit of reading the Bible everyday (that was his first call, he left a message). Then there was Lent and the need to give up or take on something to better myself and strengthen my faith (call number two, he left another message). Then sweet Summer posted this yesterday, her '21 Days to a Better You.' (that was when God left his last message and I returned the call).

(photo here)

I have struggled with ways to strengthen my faith for a while. I certainly feel close to God, but I've felt that there was something else I could do and then he placed all these signs in front of me that it was time for a change. I mean, who doesn't want to feel better about themselves and stronger in their faith?

(photo LaceyBlog)

So, I've decided to join Summer and take on this challenge and I'm hoping by the end I will feel like a new and refreshed person. Here's a little update on yesterday and today's challenges.

Day 1:
Think of something you are willing to give up for 21 days,
and commit to it once and for all.
Write it down.
Tell someone so they can help to hold you accountable.
and remember,
it's just for 21 days.
you can do anything for 21 days.


What did I give up? Cursing. I don't do it a lot, but I do it enough to give it up for 21 days.

Day 2:
Let today be a day that you are focused on going out of your way to show love and kindness to the people around you.
Whether that means sending a card,
writing a thoughtful email or note,
doing a chore for someone,
or spending extra intentional time with a friend, child or family member....
Whatever it may be, just find as many ways as you can throughout the day and do them.
And do them with a heart full of love.

I was full of love today! And I feel gooood.

I am so excited about this challenge and the changes that I'm making. I am too blessed to not put my priorities in order and give thanks to the One who gives me everything I need.
(photo here)

"Walk with me and work with me-watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."
Matthew 11:29-30

I would love it if you would join me! Let's feel better together!

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20 comments

Summer said...

I so get what you mean. I feel like God has been pushing for change for a looooong while. I finally just had enough, and decided it was time!

I am so excited your joining along, it will be much easier to have support. =)

Aly @ Analyze This said...

Oh Julie! I am right there behind you!

Change is something I think about for such a long tme...but I never committ....Well, this is my committment to myself, now. Change.

Thanks for shedding some light on this topic! I can't wait to see how yours (and others) as well as mine change!

Here's to a wonderful 21 days!

xoxo, Aly

Unknown said...

Glad you're in on the 21 days too! We can have each other's backs now! Well, I'll always have your back... but ya know!

I don't feel like I've shown enough love today yet. I am going to pack my night full of it!

Kelsey Claire said...

Yeah for changes! That all sounds like fabulous! I have felt the tug as well! Good luck and let us know how it goes!

Suzanne said...

He's been tugging and yanking on me...so I am off to check out the 21 day challenge. My devotions have been like this too so it's time for me to listen:-) Wonderful post...thank you!

Anything Fits A Naked Man said...

FANTASTIC idea! Good for you! I need to join you!

Brittany said...

That's so awesome! Good for you :-) I hope you stick to it! Let us know how it all works out.

meredith said...

i LOVE this, julie! i'm right there with ya, girl. my church is starting a series tomorrow evening and goes through the end of the week called "refresh." i'm really excited to see what God will be doing in my life. obedience and change can be so hard, so i'm thankful to have a little blogging community! :)

{andthisiswhatshesaid} said...

Awesome that your joining it. Its such a good idea!

Amber said...

I absolutely know how you feel. God has really been speaking to me lately and I'm finally starting to listen. I pray you grow stronger in your faith during this time!!

Kristen said...

This sounds amazing... I need to get back on track with my faith too. It is by no means "bad" but I totally feel like it could be better. I might just play along too.

Valerie said...

Good luck with your challenge dear! Keep us posted on your progress :)

Michelle Schraudner said...

I'm in! This sounds fantastic! I can't wait to hear more about how it's going for you.

Nocona said...

I blogged about your blog and your 21 day challenge.

Unknown said...

This is awesome!!! He calls to us in so many different ways...we just have to answer.

Stephanie R. said...

The 21 Day Challenge sounds awesome! I'm in!

Buckhead Belle said...

I completely know what you mean! Can't wait to hear updates during the 21 days! xoxo

Taylor-Made Wife said...

I love this!! God has a tough time getting through to me sometimes. We have an ongoing battle of control- you'd think I'd giving up knowing I could never win. Good luck with everything.

Anonymous said...

This is a great challenge!

Holly said...

im intrigued. i need to check this out. i have 21 days :)