"Suddenly, the angel of the Lord appeared to him as a blazing fire in a bush. Moses was amazed because the bush was engulfed in flames, but it didn't burn up." Exodus 3:2 (NLT)
We continue to explore the different paths of spiritual experience in the "Paths to Wholeness" resource, based on the book, Discover Your Spiritual Type by Corinne Ware.
This week we are exploring worship & prayer through Air and Fire! Both are used throughout the Bible to represent God's presence. The burning bush is one of my favorites and most vivid! And it calls Moses to extreme action for the Kingdom of God (one of the markers for the Fire path).
Reading is one of my favorite things to do. Whether it be for knowledge or entertainment, I am most content to sit & read. When I took my daughter for a visit to her future college, she went to dinner with her future teammates and they urged me to come along. They couldn't understand why the prospect of eating alone in my hotel room and reading a book was appealing to me. I've known this about myself from a very young age, but I never put it together with my spirituality.
This is the insight that our study is giving us. And it's importance goes beyond just knowing and understanding how we, as individuals, prefer to worship. It can be helpful by showing us, individually and corporately, what we need to continue to grow in our faith; how to step out of our comfort zone; and how to seek out and appreciate the gifts of others.
Ms. Ware and her predecessor, Urban T. Holmes, contend that we all have tendencies towards one or two paths, but that it is important to maintain a balance among the 4 quadrants (paths). "The circle emphasizes Holmes's belief that each of four types of authentic religious experience is needed as part of a healthy whole. The circle itself represents the value placed on unity and on the interdependence of each part." (Discover Your Spiritual Type, pg. 9).
In other words, I need to do more than keep my nose in a book! To maintain a balanced life, spiritually and otherwise, I should look to the other paths of Water & Fire to provided the proper tension to my Earth & Air paths. When I look around at my immediate family and friends, I recognize that often they provide the balance and pull or push that I need to draw me off of my comfy sofa, out of the pages of an interesting book and into the world of action and expression.
I hope, as we study these different paths, that we can open ourselves to new experiences. Even if we don't incorporate new practices into our personal worship and prayer time, it's still a valuable tool to use on our journey in becoming the person God created us to be. He created us to be part of a whole, part of a community. None of us can be complete without each other, by design.
Here's a quick overview of what we will do on Friday when we meet:
First we will look at the Fire Path and talk about volunteerism. Please read page 20 so that you are familiar with this path's characteristics. We will not discuss "the situations" on page 21. We may briefly discuss how we, individually and as a church, contribute to The Kingdom of God through our volunteer efforts.
The bulk of our time will be exploring Air through contemplative meditation. Please read pages 17,18, and 19 so you are familiar with what we will be doing. This will make the transition into the meditation smoother and give us more time for the meditation and discussion or quiet time. If you would like to bring a pillow to sit on for the meditation, please do so. We will be sitting silently for 10 minutes.
WINNER!!! Congratulations, Paula! You are the winner of the journal and pen giveaway! I will bring it to our meeting on Friday.
Please share your experiences so far in exploring the different paths of spirituality. Were you surprised by your dominate path? Do you need to be more balanced? How do you plan on drawing from the other paths?
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
Warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Earth and Water
"And God said, "let the water beneath the sky be gathered into one place so dry ground may appear." And so it was. God named the dry ground "land" and the water "seas". And God saw that it was good." Genesis 1: 9-10
Have you figured out your spiritual style based on Corinne Ware's guide? I am finding it fascinating, but then again, I am mostly Earth, with a strong showing from Air! Which means, I like this kind of stuff: "thinking" spirituality, the written word has power, love of order, concrete, attempts to make sense of spiritual experiences and give them names! Describes me and this study to a "T"! Who else would try to label one's spiritual experiences except an Earth type :)
On Friday I was pushed out of my comfort zone and into the "water". And it was amazing!! I am not artsy, though I have a high appreciation and love for art, music, dance, and all things made by human hands. Personally, I can't draw a stick figure and a blank canvas or lump of clay is just that: a blank, lumpy thing! But our study is encouraging us to learn about and experience different ways of seeking God, responding to worship, and being spiritual. So, art supplies were gathered and we ventured into guided meditation. After allowing the meditation to sit in our minds and hearts for a few minutes, we turned to the water colors, acrylics, and play dough to respond to our experience. INCREDIBLE! Afterwards we shared our art, how we felt, what we "saw", and what moved us. One of the many unexpected results is that often we didn't know exactly why we responded the way we did: a purple house, a red braid of hair. Some of us had memories stirred and the art reflected that: a jar of nard, a camel, a bowl of peas. And some responded to the immediate: a rainbow on the hard packed ground, the silhouette of Jesus' head, a free-form poem echoing the meditation, and blue play dough kneaded into nothing in particular. The process was authentic and the results were rich!
Whether or not you were able to participate last Friday, let me encourage you dip your toe into the "water". It is refreshing! As we journey through Holy Week, grab a brush, some clay, or a pen and dare to respond with art from your heart. Listen to some music that stirs your soul. Write poetry. Draw or paint, allowing color to express your emotions. For more inspiration, here is a link to my friend Jess's blog, Liturgy Beyond Words. I met her when I was a member of The Presbyterian Church of Morris Plains. She has since gone off to Seminary and is discovering the world of Liturgical Art. This is the link to the art work she did during the Palm Sunday sermon. Her whole blog is very interesting - I hope it inspires you.
Thank you Lisa, for sharing your inspired response from our Friday gathering! BEAUTIFUL!
The water path is not just about art: it includes being intuitive, extemporaneous prayer, music, evangelism, witnessing and establishing relationships with other people and with God. In the book, Discover Your Spiritual Type, Ms. Ware says you "seek illumination by heartfelt intuition." (pg 39). I think that's lovely!
I would love to hear about your artistic response to the Word! Or what role you think art plays in our spiritual experience. Have you had a spiritual artful experience that you would like to share? Comment below and you could be the winner of my next give away! From those who comment on Art & Spirituality, a random person will be chosen to receive a set of watercolors and a pad of water color paper!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Have you figured out your spiritual style based on Corinne Ware's guide? I am finding it fascinating, but then again, I am mostly Earth, with a strong showing from Air! Which means, I like this kind of stuff: "thinking" spirituality, the written word has power, love of order, concrete, attempts to make sense of spiritual experiences and give them names! Describes me and this study to a "T"! Who else would try to label one's spiritual experiences except an Earth type :)
On Friday I was pushed out of my comfort zone and into the "water". And it was amazing!! I am not artsy, though I have a high appreciation and love for art, music, dance, and all things made by human hands. Personally, I can't draw a stick figure and a blank canvas or lump of clay is just that: a blank, lumpy thing! But our study is encouraging us to learn about and experience different ways of seeking God, responding to worship, and being spiritual. So, art supplies were gathered and we ventured into guided meditation. After allowing the meditation to sit in our minds and hearts for a few minutes, we turned to the water colors, acrylics, and play dough to respond to our experience. INCREDIBLE! Afterwards we shared our art, how we felt, what we "saw", and what moved us. One of the many unexpected results is that often we didn't know exactly why we responded the way we did: a purple house, a red braid of hair. Some of us had memories stirred and the art reflected that: a jar of nard, a camel, a bowl of peas. And some responded to the immediate: a rainbow on the hard packed ground, the silhouette of Jesus' head, a free-form poem echoing the meditation, and blue play dough kneaded into nothing in particular. The process was authentic and the results were rich!
Whether or not you were able to participate last Friday, let me encourage you dip your toe into the "water". It is refreshing! As we journey through Holy Week, grab a brush, some clay, or a pen and dare to respond with art from your heart. Listen to some music that stirs your soul. Write poetry. Draw or paint, allowing color to express your emotions. For more inspiration, here is a link to my friend Jess's blog, Liturgy Beyond Words. I met her when I was a member of The Presbyterian Church of Morris Plains. She has since gone off to Seminary and is discovering the world of Liturgical Art. This is the link to the art work she did during the Palm Sunday sermon. Her whole blog is very interesting - I hope it inspires you.
Thank you Lisa, for sharing your inspired response from our Friday gathering! BEAUTIFUL!
The water path is not just about art: it includes being intuitive, extemporaneous prayer, music, evangelism, witnessing and establishing relationships with other people and with God. In the book, Discover Your Spiritual Type, Ms. Ware says you "seek illumination by heartfelt intuition." (pg 39). I think that's lovely!
I would love to hear about your artistic response to the Word! Or what role you think art plays in our spiritual experience. Have you had a spiritual artful experience that you would like to share? Comment below and you could be the winner of my next give away! From those who comment on Art & Spirituality, a random person will be chosen to receive a set of watercolors and a pad of water color paper!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
It All Fits Together
"Use every piece of God's armor to resist the enemy in the time of evil, so that after the battle you will still be standing firm." Ephesians 6:13
Welcome Spring! Most people greet spring with great enthusiasm and excitement. Not me. Although it's not a popular stance, spring is my least favorite of the four seasons. I don't get excited until the end of May. And technically, it's still spring, but March and April hold little appeal for me outside of the fact that some dear friends & family celebrate their birthdays in those months and I do love Easter. I won't go into all the reasons I am glum & grumpy, but instead turn to one of the verses in my Warrior scripture.
I have been wondering how my word 'warrior' was going to serve me throughout the coming year. Today, after journaling the happenings of the last few days, I am beginning to see how Ephesians 6:10-18 will help. I decided to view my glum & grumpy attitude through My Word and this Scripture and it dawned on me that "my time of evil" can be something different for everyone.
It sounds like some great battle, but it can also mean those little battles I fight every day. When I want to sit on the sofa, snap at my kids, or yell at the ref who just made a horrible call, I need to resist. God commands, through Solomon's wise teachings, that I speak "kind words because they are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body" Proverbs 16:24. He says I should wear the shoes of peace (not get agitated at the ump) and that I will need the shield of faith to protect me from Satan's fiery arrows (that little devil on my shoulder telling me that I have time for one more game on my iPhone, the laundry can wait). It might seem like a stretch, but these little, daily skirmishes add-up at the end of the day. I have to decide if I will have a day led by God or a day lost in the muck of selfishness and annoyance.
What are your 'times of evil'? Are they little things throughout the day or a big thing that seems impossible to overcome? Remember what Jesus said in Matthew 19:26, "But with God everything is possible."(NLT). And as we study God's word together, we are gathering tools to help us draw closer to God and learn to rely on Him.
Use your One Word to slow down; take a look at the situation through the lens of your word and the Scripture you have chosen. God will use these tools and lead you.
Use your journal to examine your state of mind, a situation, or just to write what's in your heart and mind. Journaling your journey will allow you to see how far you have come and recall all the wonderful things God is doing in your life. I find it amazing what comes about while taking the time to write it out!
And as we explore our Spiritual Style, we will gain an understanding of what stirs us, fulfills us, and how we best experience our spirituality. If you haven't already done so, flip ahead in the packet to read the "Dominant characteristics" and "Worship & Theology" of the different paths. It's fascinating!
I am excited to learn how our different spiritual paths connect, support and compliment each other.
And how knowing our paths will enhance our use of our One Word, our journals, our gatherings and how we each have our own style of growing closer to the woman God created us to be.
A Giveaway!!
For a chance to win a journal & pen share your response to discovering your personal spiritual style/path in the comment section. Do the characteristics fit you? Were you surprised by the outcome? A winner will be chosen at random from qualifying comments on April 15th.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Welcome Spring! Most people greet spring with great enthusiasm and excitement. Not me. Although it's not a popular stance, spring is my least favorite of the four seasons. I don't get excited until the end of May. And technically, it's still spring, but March and April hold little appeal for me outside of the fact that some dear friends & family celebrate their birthdays in those months and I do love Easter. I won't go into all the reasons I am glum & grumpy, but instead turn to one of the verses in my Warrior scripture.
I have been wondering how my word 'warrior' was going to serve me throughout the coming year. Today, after journaling the happenings of the last few days, I am beginning to see how Ephesians 6:10-18 will help. I decided to view my glum & grumpy attitude through My Word and this Scripture and it dawned on me that "my time of evil" can be something different for everyone.
It sounds like some great battle, but it can also mean those little battles I fight every day. When I want to sit on the sofa, snap at my kids, or yell at the ref who just made a horrible call, I need to resist. God commands, through Solomon's wise teachings, that I speak "kind words because they are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body" Proverbs 16:24. He says I should wear the shoes of peace (not get agitated at the ump) and that I will need the shield of faith to protect me from Satan's fiery arrows (that little devil on my shoulder telling me that I have time for one more game on my iPhone, the laundry can wait). It might seem like a stretch, but these little, daily skirmishes add-up at the end of the day. I have to decide if I will have a day led by God or a day lost in the muck of selfishness and annoyance.
What are your 'times of evil'? Are they little things throughout the day or a big thing that seems impossible to overcome? Remember what Jesus said in Matthew 19:26, "But with God everything is possible."(NLT). And as we study God's word together, we are gathering tools to help us draw closer to God and learn to rely on Him.
Use your One Word to slow down; take a look at the situation through the lens of your word and the Scripture you have chosen. God will use these tools and lead you.
Use your journal to examine your state of mind, a situation, or just to write what's in your heart and mind. Journaling your journey will allow you to see how far you have come and recall all the wonderful things God is doing in your life. I find it amazing what comes about while taking the time to write it out!
And as we explore our Spiritual Style, we will gain an understanding of what stirs us, fulfills us, and how we best experience our spirituality. If you haven't already done so, flip ahead in the packet to read the "Dominant characteristics" and "Worship & Theology" of the different paths. It's fascinating!
I am excited to learn how our different spiritual paths connect, support and compliment each other.
And how knowing our paths will enhance our use of our One Word, our journals, our gatherings and how we each have our own style of growing closer to the woman God created us to be.
A Giveaway!!
For a chance to win a journal & pen share your response to discovering your personal spiritual style/path in the comment section. Do the characteristics fit you? Were you surprised by the outcome? A winner will be chosen at random from qualifying comments on April 15th.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
You've Got Style
"Praise to the Lord! Sing to the Lord a new song. Sing his praises in the assembly of the faithful. 3 Praise his name with dancing, accompanied by tambourine and harp." Psalm 149: 1,3
You've got spiritual style! It's true! Do you know what it is? We think of style when it comes to clothing, home decor, car, music choices, even the way we parent, and engage in relationships. But have you ever considered your Spiritual Style? And I'm not talking about what you wear to church :)
I'm referring to the way in which you follow God. The way you worship in church and in your life; how you draw closer to God. We all have spiritual gifts, talents, traditions, and rituals; but style is more about how we like to do these things. And although there is no right or wrong when it comes to style, it certainly can stir up emotions and controversy.
Over the next 6 weeks (7 on the calendar because we're not meeting on Good Friday) we are going to explore the different spiritual styles as defined by Corinne Ware in her book, Discover your Spiritual Type: A Guide to Individual and Congregational Growth. We will not be reading the book (although it is encouraged). Instead we will be following a "retreat resource" put together by the WELCA. We will explore what Spiritual Style is and how it impacts our personal worship. We will also have the opportunity to discover our own spiritual path(s) as well as the spiritual paths of others. After discovering our own style(s), we will then have the opportunity to experience each of the spiritual paths, as defined in the book.
In preparation, please carefully read pages 3-5 of the "Paths to Wholeness" handout. Take some time to answer the questions on pages 3 & 4 completely and consider your personal style.
You've got spiritual style! It's true! Do you know what it is? We think of style when it comes to clothing, home decor, car, music choices, even the way we parent, and engage in relationships. But have you ever considered your Spiritual Style? And I'm not talking about what you wear to church :)
I'm referring to the way in which you follow God. The way you worship in church and in your life; how you draw closer to God. We all have spiritual gifts, talents, traditions, and rituals; but style is more about how we like to do these things. And although there is no right or wrong when it comes to style, it certainly can stir up emotions and controversy.
Over the next 6 weeks (7 on the calendar because we're not meeting on Good Friday) we are going to explore the different spiritual styles as defined by Corinne Ware in her book, Discover your Spiritual Type: A Guide to Individual and Congregational Growth. We will not be reading the book (although it is encouraged). Instead we will be following a "retreat resource" put together by the WELCA. We will explore what Spiritual Style is and how it impacts our personal worship. We will also have the opportunity to discover our own spiritual path(s) as well as the spiritual paths of others. After discovering our own style(s), we will then have the opportunity to experience each of the spiritual paths, as defined in the book.
In preparation, please carefully read pages 3-5 of the "Paths to Wholeness" handout. Take some time to answer the questions on pages 3 & 4 completely and consider your personal style.
Please do not read ahead!
For those who have One Word, my hope is that this will be complimentary to living your life through the lens of that word. Another layer of understanding ourselves, our Sisters, and our relationship to God.
In the comments below, please share your "style" of life as you understand it. How do you think this will influence your spiritual style? I'm excited to read all about you "stylish" women!
As a follow-up to last Friday's session, I'd like to thank Janice for that beautiful and moving display of our words. That had style! And in my style, I came home and wrote about it - in my journal and in poetry. Please indulge me as I share my response:
My One Word walks across the room.
Held aloft by little arms.
Clutched in tiny fingers.
Look! There it is!
It walks, unafraid, across the room.
Silent. Strong.
It walks with purpose, not knowing where the journey will end.
My heart is so full it spills from my eyes.
Our One Words parade through the room.
Look! There's yours!
A living reminder of our journey with the Lord.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
Eph 6:10-18
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the sould and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
Remember, do not forget!
"Search for the Lord and for his strength; continually seek him. Remember the wonders he has performed, his miracles, and the rulings he has given..." Psalm 105:4-5
"Remember, do not forget (fill in the blank)..."!
I can't tell you how many times I've said that to my husband, my children, my family, the class parents, my friends, and myself! I pen reminder notes, send them via e-mail, in newsletters and blogs, and sometimes I even resort to making phone calls or face to face meetings. I have 3 calendars, plus those put out by the various teams and organizations that have a hand in making our family schedule. All in an effort to remember to not forget something! In fact, right this minute I am remembering that I have forgotten to mail a check! Thank goodness for notes - when I checked, I saw that I had mailed it, a week before the deadline! Have you ever done that? Thought you forget, only to discover that you didn't!? It makes me wonder what kind of life I've gotten myself into when I forget that I remembered!
Forgetfulness is not a 21st Century problem! It goes back to the very beginning of human existence. In My One Word, Mike Ashcraft talks about the Israelites forgetting God's love for them as they wandered through the desert. It seems like a crazy thing to forget, considering the miracles that took place to get them out of Egypt, but it happened. And it happens to me all the time! I am acutely aware that I am a very forgetful person. I forget people's names right after they introduce themselves; I forget important birthdays; or where I hid gifts, documents, and that air freshener refill that I love and they only had 1 left! I forget to rely on God for what I need, to thank Him for all he has done and to enjoy the life he gives me. My forgetfulness can be so frustrating! So, I turned to 'the great big book of everything': the Bible.
I looked it up on Bible Gateway and the phrase "do not forget" (or some form of it) appears in 15 passages (NLT) from the books of Deuteronomy through Hebrews. These include commands to God's people and the promise that God does not forget. Okay, so I'm not the only one who is both using this phrase and in need of it. It is comforting to know it's not just me!
Then I searched the word "remember" and was overwhelmed by 267 passages (NLT)! I guess that settles it; humans need to be told to remember! It appears in 52 out of 66 books of the Bible! From Genesis to Revelation! If it was written down that many times, can you imagine how many times it was spoken?! Clearly, remembering is something we have to be reminded to do. So when we forget, because we will, we shouldn't throw in the towel. Pray and keep moving forward on the path to becoming the person God created us to be.
What are some ways you remember things? I'm sure you learned RoyGBiv to recall the colors of the rainbow, and Every Good Boy Does Fine (or similar phrase) and FACE to learn to read music. What about now, how do you remember important events, schedules, goals, and God's promises? How will you remember your One Word this year? What will you do to "Keep it in front of you", as Mike urges us in chapter 5 of My One Word. And how will you recall everything that happened throughout the year on your journey with your word? Mike has a suggestion for that, too: "write your guts out"! For more encouragement click here to read what Women of the ELCA says about journaling.
I am excited to read how you will keep your word present and engaging throughout the year! For those of you who leave a comment based on these questions, I will randomly choose one person to receive a pen and journal! I will choose and announce the winner on Wednesday, April 2nd!
What's Next?
Our next study will begin Friday, April 4th. Copies of the free booklet can be picked up from me or you can dowload it here. It is about finding your style of following God's lead!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
warrior
Eph 6:10-18
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Thursday, March 20, 2014
My One Word - Chapters 11 & 12
"And the Lord replied, "I will personally go with you, Moses. I will give you rest - everything will be fine for you." Then Moses said, "If you don't go with us personally, don't let us move a step from this place." Exodus 33:14-15
As we come to the end of the book, we are reminded of the importance of The Journey. By now, you have probably chosen a word, or at least narrowed it down. But in the process of choosing, don't forget the purpose of your One Word - to draw closer to God.
I chose an obvious word for chapter 11: WAIT and for chapter 12 it is JOURNEY. Both words point to the fact that it takes time to get to our destination, just as both chapters talk about the importance of what happens between today and a year from today with our one word. We all have a 'destination' in mind when we choose a word - a new & improved self, attitude, outlook, etc. But it's the moments and days in between now and then that make the change possible. Often times we see a journey as just a waiting time til we get to our destination. But there's a better way to view it; Mike puts it this way, "Waiting prepares me for his (God's) lead." (MOW, 159).
Most importantly, it's who we rely on to make that change in us. Just before the passage above, Moses is a talking with God and expressing concern about traveling to the Promised Land. The Lord's assurance is not just for Moses - it's for us, too! When we wait on the Lord, our time is not wasted. When God travels with us on our journey, he teaches "...us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom" Psalm 90:12
Over the next few days, as you finish reading "My One Word" and begin a year-long journey with your word, don't forget to travel with the best tour guide around: God! Remember to stop and smell the roses and keep a travel journal so that you can look back and recall all the things, big & small / good & bad, that you experienced along the way. "The normal, natural pace of our lives will not likely lead us toward spiritual formation" (MOW, 23), so be intentional in your endeavour, stay focused on your word, and remain open to what God is doing in your life.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
As we come to the end of the book, we are reminded of the importance of The Journey. By now, you have probably chosen a word, or at least narrowed it down. But in the process of choosing, don't forget the purpose of your One Word - to draw closer to God.
I chose an obvious word for chapter 11: WAIT and for chapter 12 it is JOURNEY. Both words point to the fact that it takes time to get to our destination, just as both chapters talk about the importance of what happens between today and a year from today with our one word. We all have a 'destination' in mind when we choose a word - a new & improved self, attitude, outlook, etc. But it's the moments and days in between now and then that make the change possible. Often times we see a journey as just a waiting time til we get to our destination. But there's a better way to view it; Mike puts it this way, "Waiting prepares me for his (God's) lead." (MOW, 159).
Most importantly, it's who we rely on to make that change in us. Just before the passage above, Moses is a talking with God and expressing concern about traveling to the Promised Land. The Lord's assurance is not just for Moses - it's for us, too! When we wait on the Lord, our time is not wasted. When God travels with us on our journey, he teaches "...us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom" Psalm 90:12
Over the next few days, as you finish reading "My One Word" and begin a year-long journey with your word, don't forget to travel with the best tour guide around: God! Remember to stop and smell the roses and keep a travel journal so that you can look back and recall all the things, big & small / good & bad, that you experienced along the way. "The normal, natural pace of our lives will not likely lead us toward spiritual formation" (MOW, 23), so be intentional in your endeavour, stay focused on your word, and remain open to what God is doing in your life.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
My One Word - Chapters 9 & 10
"There is meaning in every journey that is unknown to the traveler." ~ Dietrich Bonhoeffer
I read this quote this morning on Facebook - it was posted by the ELCA. If you are on Facebook you should follow them! They've been posting inspiring quotes throughout Lent! When I read this one, I couldn't help but think of the My One Word project! Mike talks about staying open to what God will do through our focus on our word in chapter 7. And in chapter 10 he touches on why journaling is so important; one of the reasons being that it allows us to see later, that meaning which wasn't clear in the beginning. We stay with one word for a year, because it is a journey whose destination is not yet known.
Regardless of where you are, keep moving forward, keep reading and writing; listen for God's voice in your search for your word and stay open to what He will do with you throughout the coming year.
Chapter 9 is a little aggressive! With a title like, "Blow Up the Moment", what did I expect? But when it comes to avoiding or defeating sin (whatever the sin is) we can't take a laissez-faire attitude. I thought of the word TEST in this chapter. Mike suggests we run some tests when we are in situations that can lead us away from God. We have asked the question over & over, "how do I know it's God talking to me". In this chapter (along with the 4 C's in chapter 6) Mike gives us some guidance as to how to slow ourselves down and control our thoughts, rather than letting emotions and our "mind monkeys" control them! I love the image of "mind monkeys"! It cracks me up and. at the same time, scares me a little! My mind monkeys run the range from "5 Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed" to the pack of baboons chasing Jane in Disney's Tarzan. Can you tell I have kids!? No matter what your mind monkeys look like, they can be tamed with Scripture.
The word that came to me in chapter 10 is a bit obvious: WRITE! Mike implores us to write our guts out. And even for someone like me, who enjoys writing, it's not an easy task. It is a discipline. To take the time every day or even every other day, to slow down long enough to put pen to paper and record our thoughts, observations, activities, and feelings requires discipline and obedience. I know I didn't do so well last year with this, but this year it is one of the things I hope to incorporate through focusing on my one word. Mike does a fantastic job of proclaiming the benefits of journaling. So, I won't restate his declarations, I'll just say "Find a journal and get started! Right now!"
We are almost to the end of the book, but that is merely the beginning of the journey! If you have your word, great! I hope you have already found a Scripture to guide you and are working on your one small action. If you haven't yet chosen a word, stick with the process and keep your eyes and ears open! I thought I had my word narrowed down to 2 last week. I shared them, Kindness & Obey, but what others said in the course of discussing their words and mine, I have since heard another whispering to me. More research, listening and writing for me this week!
In the comment section, please share your word (if you have one), your Scripture, your one small action or any questions or struggles you are having discovering your word. I can't wait to read about your One Word!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
I read this quote this morning on Facebook - it was posted by the ELCA. If you are on Facebook you should follow them! They've been posting inspiring quotes throughout Lent! When I read this one, I couldn't help but think of the My One Word project! Mike talks about staying open to what God will do through our focus on our word in chapter 7. And in chapter 10 he touches on why journaling is so important; one of the reasons being that it allows us to see later, that meaning which wasn't clear in the beginning. We stay with one word for a year, because it is a journey whose destination is not yet known.
Regardless of where you are, keep moving forward, keep reading and writing; listen for God's voice in your search for your word and stay open to what He will do with you throughout the coming year.
Chapter 9 is a little aggressive! With a title like, "Blow Up the Moment", what did I expect? But when it comes to avoiding or defeating sin (whatever the sin is) we can't take a laissez-faire attitude. I thought of the word TEST in this chapter. Mike suggests we run some tests when we are in situations that can lead us away from God. We have asked the question over & over, "how do I know it's God talking to me". In this chapter (along with the 4 C's in chapter 6) Mike gives us some guidance as to how to slow ourselves down and control our thoughts, rather than letting emotions and our "mind monkeys" control them! I love the image of "mind monkeys"! It cracks me up and. at the same time, scares me a little! My mind monkeys run the range from "5 Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed" to the pack of baboons chasing Jane in Disney's Tarzan. Can you tell I have kids!? No matter what your mind monkeys look like, they can be tamed with Scripture.
The word that came to me in chapter 10 is a bit obvious: WRITE! Mike implores us to write our guts out. And even for someone like me, who enjoys writing, it's not an easy task. It is a discipline. To take the time every day or even every other day, to slow down long enough to put pen to paper and record our thoughts, observations, activities, and feelings requires discipline and obedience. I know I didn't do so well last year with this, but this year it is one of the things I hope to incorporate through focusing on my one word. Mike does a fantastic job of proclaiming the benefits of journaling. So, I won't restate his declarations, I'll just say "Find a journal and get started! Right now!"
We are almost to the end of the book, but that is merely the beginning of the journey! If you have your word, great! I hope you have already found a Scripture to guide you and are working on your one small action. If you haven't yet chosen a word, stick with the process and keep your eyes and ears open! I thought I had my word narrowed down to 2 last week. I shared them, Kindness & Obey, but what others said in the course of discussing their words and mine, I have since heard another whispering to me. More research, listening and writing for me this week!
In the comment section, please share your word (if you have one), your Scripture, your one small action or any questions or struggles you are having discovering your word. I can't wait to read about your One Word!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Thursday, March 13, 2014
My One Word - Chapters 7 & 8
"Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see." Hebrews 11:1
This study is going fast! I don't know about you, but I feel like even though I can get the reading done, the reflection questions will take a little more time to really sink in. I suppose that's why this is a year long endeavour and not just a 4 or 8 week study! Hang in there and remember, it's about the process, not perfection.
Chapter 7, "Let It Morph" is all about staying OPEN (my word for the chapter) to what God is doing in us through our word. Proverbs 16:9 says "We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps." I know, it seems contradictory to say 'stay focused' AND 'stay open'! Staying focused on our word, which is chosen with help and direction from God, will begin the work and staying open to what God has intended for us will sustain us and "bring about his purposes and our maturity" (MOW, 101). As you journal your journey throughout the year, you will begin to see how staying open to what God wants will allow your word to morph.
Chapter 8, "Seeing Through Your Word" is all about TRAINING! I was never an athlete, but my children are! Training is something I have learned a great deal about as an adult and I'm trying my best to pass on this newly acquired knowledge to my children. Training, not just physically, but mentally & spiritually, is very important! It is how we can be strong when we are put to the test. The way we think, they way we view the world, the way we react to the world is a little bit 'nature' (how we're wired) and a little bit (maybe a lotta bit) 'nurture'. We are intelligent and can train our brains. Mike goes even further and says that we can also, with God's help, through the lens of our one word, train our hearts. On page 107 Mike puts it this way, "what we see determines the direction we will go. The attention of our eyes focuses the affection of our hearts. The eyes of our heart, once enlightened... show us a reality that our physical eyes cannot see. A reality based on the words and promises of God." Of course, all of this is dependent on staying focused on our word and staying open to what God has in store!
Once you have a word, write in your journal your reason for choosing that word. What inspired, drove, or impressed you about the word? What hopes do you have for the year? Answering these questions now will be helpful in the weeks and months to come. It will serve as a reminder of your intentions and help you to see how your word morphs over the year.
I would love to know what your word is and why you chose it! Please comment below to share with us!
As soon as I have settled on my word, I will let you know! Remember, it's a process not a race; it may take some time to settle on your word for the year. Stick with it, pray, and let God guide you to His word for you.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
This study is going fast! I don't know about you, but I feel like even though I can get the reading done, the reflection questions will take a little more time to really sink in. I suppose that's why this is a year long endeavour and not just a 4 or 8 week study! Hang in there and remember, it's about the process, not perfection.
Chapter 7, "Let It Morph" is all about staying OPEN (my word for the chapter) to what God is doing in us through our word. Proverbs 16:9 says "We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps." I know, it seems contradictory to say 'stay focused' AND 'stay open'! Staying focused on our word, which is chosen with help and direction from God, will begin the work and staying open to what God has intended for us will sustain us and "bring about his purposes and our maturity" (MOW, 101). As you journal your journey throughout the year, you will begin to see how staying open to what God wants will allow your word to morph.
Chapter 8, "Seeing Through Your Word" is all about TRAINING! I was never an athlete, but my children are! Training is something I have learned a great deal about as an adult and I'm trying my best to pass on this newly acquired knowledge to my children. Training, not just physically, but mentally & spiritually, is very important! It is how we can be strong when we are put to the test. The way we think, they way we view the world, the way we react to the world is a little bit 'nature' (how we're wired) and a little bit (maybe a lotta bit) 'nurture'. We are intelligent and can train our brains. Mike goes even further and says that we can also, with God's help, through the lens of our one word, train our hearts. On page 107 Mike puts it this way, "what we see determines the direction we will go. The attention of our eyes focuses the affection of our hearts. The eyes of our heart, once enlightened... show us a reality that our physical eyes cannot see. A reality based on the words and promises of God." Of course, all of this is dependent on staying focused on our word and staying open to what God has in store!
Once you have a word, write in your journal your reason for choosing that word. What inspired, drove, or impressed you about the word? What hopes do you have for the year? Answering these questions now will be helpful in the weeks and months to come. It will serve as a reminder of your intentions and help you to see how your word morphs over the year.
I would love to know what your word is and why you chose it! Please comment below to share with us!
As soon as I have settled on my word, I will let you know! Remember, it's a process not a race; it may take some time to settle on your word for the year. Stick with it, pray, and let God guide you to His word for you.
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Monday, March 10, 2014
My One Word - Chapters 5 & 6
"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me." John 10:27 ESV
Last week was an amazing week for my two teenagers! My daughter and her partner won a state-wide video contest, my son had a hat trick, his team won a weekend tournament, and their high school hockey team became State Champions! I can't help but be very proud of them!
Have you had days like this, where you're on top of the world? Energy is high and it seeps into everything you do. Take a moment to recall that time. How long did that euphoria last? How long did it sustain you? In our busy lives it's easy to forget even the most exciting & uplifting feelings that we experience. In fact, when I mentioned what a great week it was, my daughter said, "Oh yea, that was this week!" in reference to her video contest. Amazing! They had worked very hard on the project and drumming up votes, yet with everything else going on, she had forgotten that it was only days before that she had celebrated a victory. Memories can be short, even for the good things in life!
A one word description for chapter five is Remember. Mike talks about how forgetful we humans can be and gives us our first challenge: "Don't fail to remember." (pg. 76). Even with all the work that we put into discovering our one word, chances are that if we are not intentional, we can forget our word. He says, "... the single most difficult part of this One Word journey is continuing to focus on our word for a full year." (pg. 75). In the Reflect section, he gives us some good advice about how to keep our word in front of us.
Last year I decided to electronically sign all my e-mails with the Bible verse that contains my word. Every time I sent an e-mail, it was there. Often I would re-read my e-mail through the lens of My One Word and make appropriate changes or not send it at all!
What are the ways you are going to keep your One Word in front of you? Please share your ways in the Comments! I can't wait to read all your creative ideas.
The one word I chose for chapter six is: Obey. Personally, I find that difficult. I am a rule follower, but I don't like being told what to do! On page 82 Mike gives us challenge #2: "... stop making excuses for inactivity." Oh, I am so good at making excuses - I consider it a hobby! But that's not what God expects; 'he is waiting for us to obey.' (pg. 90). Mike also tackles the question of 'how do I know it's God's voice?'. According to him, hearing God requires the Four C's: Consistency in my walk; Clarity on his purpose; Confirmation in the Word; and Counsel from wise friends. When you're unsure if what you're hearing is coming from God, put it to the test of the 4 C's.
And don't forget to journal your journey! It's the best way to remember, reflect, and obey.
Connect and share in the comments :) I look forward to reading about your One Word journey!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Last week was an amazing week for my two teenagers! My daughter and her partner won a state-wide video contest, my son had a hat trick, his team won a weekend tournament, and their high school hockey team became State Champions! I can't help but be very proud of them!
Have you had days like this, where you're on top of the world? Energy is high and it seeps into everything you do. Take a moment to recall that time. How long did that euphoria last? How long did it sustain you? In our busy lives it's easy to forget even the most exciting & uplifting feelings that we experience. In fact, when I mentioned what a great week it was, my daughter said, "Oh yea, that was this week!" in reference to her video contest. Amazing! They had worked very hard on the project and drumming up votes, yet with everything else going on, she had forgotten that it was only days before that she had celebrated a victory. Memories can be short, even for the good things in life!
A one word description for chapter five is Remember. Mike talks about how forgetful we humans can be and gives us our first challenge: "Don't fail to remember." (pg. 76). Even with all the work that we put into discovering our one word, chances are that if we are not intentional, we can forget our word. He says, "... the single most difficult part of this One Word journey is continuing to focus on our word for a full year." (pg. 75). In the Reflect section, he gives us some good advice about how to keep our word in front of us.
Last year I decided to electronically sign all my e-mails with the Bible verse that contains my word. Every time I sent an e-mail, it was there. Often I would re-read my e-mail through the lens of My One Word and make appropriate changes or not send it at all!
What are the ways you are going to keep your One Word in front of you? Please share your ways in the Comments! I can't wait to read all your creative ideas.
The one word I chose for chapter six is: Obey. Personally, I find that difficult. I am a rule follower, but I don't like being told what to do! On page 82 Mike gives us challenge #2: "... stop making excuses for inactivity." Oh, I am so good at making excuses - I consider it a hobby! But that's not what God expects; 'he is waiting for us to obey.' (pg. 90). Mike also tackles the question of 'how do I know it's God's voice?'. According to him, hearing God requires the Four C's: Consistency in my walk; Clarity on his purpose; Confirmation in the Word; and Counsel from wise friends. When you're unsure if what you're hearing is coming from God, put it to the test of the 4 C's.
And don't forget to journal your journey! It's the best way to remember, reflect, and obey.
Connect and share in the comments :) I look forward to reading about your One Word journey!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Thursday, March 6, 2014
Patience
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." 2 Corinthians 517 ESV
Welcome! I am so glad you are here! We are currently reading My One Word by Mike Ashcraft and Rachel Olsen.
In an homage to choosing one word for a year, I have decided to listen for one word in each chapter. Mike packs so much into each chapter, I found it helpful to look for an overall theme.
As I read chapter three, one word kept coming to mind: patience. This chapter is Mike's 'formula' for choosing a word: his process, thinking, and Scripture. He lays out an approach that is very helpful in tackling such a daunting task. And overall I hear him urging us to be patient. Follow the process, use a pen & paper (because it takes longer to write words than it does to think them), dig into your thoughts and Scripture. Over and over he says things like, "So give this question some in-depth thought. Don't rush the process. Approach this patiently. ...allowing questions to remain questions for some period of time - so that truth can arise." (pg 45). In an earlier chapter Mike mentions that his church took the better part of 3 weeks choosing a word. This is not a process to be rushed; there is no deadline to be met. Stay with the process and continue to move forward. It is time well spent.
Even if you think you already know your word for this year, I encourage you to go through the process with an open heart and mind. Often times it is not about the destination, but the journey. There is much to be learned along the way.
One thing I found very helpful to me over this past year is choosing a Bible verse to go with my word. It was this verse that sustained, encouraged and reminded me of my One Word and what it was I was moving towards; who I wanted to become in Christ. This was my anchor! It made the difference between this being another self-help workshop and a catalyst for true & lasting change. I implore you to connect your one word to a verse in the Bible!
Honesty is the word that floated to the surface of chapter four for me. Maybe you have a different view? I'd love to know what it is! We all approach this project from right where we are and see things from various angles. But if I had to sum up chapter 4 in one word it would be honesty. I loved Mike's story about his chat over coffee with Jerry! I know people who fit this scenario and yet, I know that at times I do, too. It is so easy to think there is something wrong with everyone else, especially when we are self-deceived. When we are not honest with ourselves, like Jerry or like Dan, it's difficult to move forward with change. Honesty, especially with oneself, does not come quickly. When we are self-deceived it is probably a result of years of thought patterns, habits, and covering over. And just like Rome wasn't built in a day, neither were our self-deceiving ways. It will take some time and effort to sort through that hall of mirrors to find the real self!
On page 66 Mike lists the three things required for our formation to happen:
1. An accurate view of Christ
2. An accurate view of yourself
3. An accurate view of yourself in Christ
"Regularly looking into Scripture will help with all three." (pg 66).
So, how are you doing with the reading? I know this can be a challenge, especially if it's been some time since you've taken a class where note taking is required. Not that it's required for this study, but I think it's very helpful. If you are having difficulty, here are some things that I do to help me read, understand, and note things of importance (to me).
1. I write in my book! It took me a long time to write in my books, but now I do it freely. I underline (sometimes in multiple colors), star, question, and write other notes as I read.
2. A notebook (or journal)! I keep my notebook with my book, along with a pen or two. I take notes by chapter and write the page number of almost everything, so I can more easily find it later.
3. Personalize! When I'm taking notes, either paraphrasing or quoting, I change the pronouns to make it personal. For example, on page 61 he writes, "Only when we being to let what we believe affect what we do are we able to embrace the process of formation." In my notes, I changed all the "we"'s to "I"'s. Go back and read it, inserting "I" for "we" and you'll see what a more powerful impact it has. This is also very powerful when reading Scripture.
4. List! I make the lists; not always how Mike suggests, but I do make the lists. If you don't have the time to sit quietly to make your list, take a suggestion from the show "My Name Is Earl". He jotted down his list of things he wanted to change on a little piece of paper and carried it in his wallet. If you're always on the go, consider making your lists in a small notebook you can throw in your purse and work on it anytime you have a moment or when something comes to mind.
5. Read daily! Even if it's only half a chapter, or read one day and spend time with the Reflection Questions the next. This will give you the time you need to follow the process. However, the timeline of finishing the book is up to you, which is why I've adopted this new format of blogging 2 chapters at a time and reserving our coffee hour discussions for the video of the day. This is a very personal project you have chosen to do. Because we are a group, there is a schedule we'll follow (generally 4 chapters a week) so that our discussions are mutually beneficial and the video series is timely. But if you are on a chapter I've already posted and want to comment on it - great! Go to the blog post about that chapter and comment; I'll get your comment and do my best to respond.
P.S. I tend to carry my book to appointments so I can squeeze in some reading while I'm waiting :)
I hope these tips are helpful. Do you have any other tips you'd like to share? Working quiet time into our busy lives is a challenge and advice is always welcome.
Comment below on your thoughts, insights, and questions for chapters 3 & 4. I can't wait to connect with you and hear what you have to say about your My One Word project so far!
Keep reading, keep writing, and keep praying!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
Welcome! I am so glad you are here! We are currently reading My One Word by Mike Ashcraft and Rachel Olsen.
In an homage to choosing one word for a year, I have decided to listen for one word in each chapter. Mike packs so much into each chapter, I found it helpful to look for an overall theme.
As I read chapter three, one word kept coming to mind: patience. This chapter is Mike's 'formula' for choosing a word: his process, thinking, and Scripture. He lays out an approach that is very helpful in tackling such a daunting task. And overall I hear him urging us to be patient. Follow the process, use a pen & paper (because it takes longer to write words than it does to think them), dig into your thoughts and Scripture. Over and over he says things like, "So give this question some in-depth thought. Don't rush the process. Approach this patiently. ...allowing questions to remain questions for some period of time - so that truth can arise." (pg 45). In an earlier chapter Mike mentions that his church took the better part of 3 weeks choosing a word. This is not a process to be rushed; there is no deadline to be met. Stay with the process and continue to move forward. It is time well spent.
Even if you think you already know your word for this year, I encourage you to go through the process with an open heart and mind. Often times it is not about the destination, but the journey. There is much to be learned along the way.
One thing I found very helpful to me over this past year is choosing a Bible verse to go with my word. It was this verse that sustained, encouraged and reminded me of my One Word and what it was I was moving towards; who I wanted to become in Christ. This was my anchor! It made the difference between this being another self-help workshop and a catalyst for true & lasting change. I implore you to connect your one word to a verse in the Bible!
Honesty is the word that floated to the surface of chapter four for me. Maybe you have a different view? I'd love to know what it is! We all approach this project from right where we are and see things from various angles. But if I had to sum up chapter 4 in one word it would be honesty. I loved Mike's story about his chat over coffee with Jerry! I know people who fit this scenario and yet, I know that at times I do, too. It is so easy to think there is something wrong with everyone else, especially when we are self-deceived. When we are not honest with ourselves, like Jerry or like Dan, it's difficult to move forward with change. Honesty, especially with oneself, does not come quickly. When we are self-deceived it is probably a result of years of thought patterns, habits, and covering over. And just like Rome wasn't built in a day, neither were our self-deceiving ways. It will take some time and effort to sort through that hall of mirrors to find the real self!
On page 66 Mike lists the three things required for our formation to happen:
1. An accurate view of Christ
2. An accurate view of yourself
3. An accurate view of yourself in Christ
"Regularly looking into Scripture will help with all three." (pg 66).
So, how are you doing with the reading? I know this can be a challenge, especially if it's been some time since you've taken a class where note taking is required. Not that it's required for this study, but I think it's very helpful. If you are having difficulty, here are some things that I do to help me read, understand, and note things of importance (to me).
1. I write in my book! It took me a long time to write in my books, but now I do it freely. I underline (sometimes in multiple colors), star, question, and write other notes as I read.
2. A notebook (or journal)! I keep my notebook with my book, along with a pen or two. I take notes by chapter and write the page number of almost everything, so I can more easily find it later.
3. Personalize! When I'm taking notes, either paraphrasing or quoting, I change the pronouns to make it personal. For example, on page 61 he writes, "Only when we being to let what we believe affect what we do are we able to embrace the process of formation." In my notes, I changed all the "we"'s to "I"'s. Go back and read it, inserting "I" for "we" and you'll see what a more powerful impact it has. This is also very powerful when reading Scripture.
4. List! I make the lists; not always how Mike suggests, but I do make the lists. If you don't have the time to sit quietly to make your list, take a suggestion from the show "My Name Is Earl". He jotted down his list of things he wanted to change on a little piece of paper and carried it in his wallet. If you're always on the go, consider making your lists in a small notebook you can throw in your purse and work on it anytime you have a moment or when something comes to mind.
5. Read daily! Even if it's only half a chapter, or read one day and spend time with the Reflection Questions the next. This will give you the time you need to follow the process. However, the timeline of finishing the book is up to you, which is why I've adopted this new format of blogging 2 chapters at a time and reserving our coffee hour discussions for the video of the day. This is a very personal project you have chosen to do. Because we are a group, there is a schedule we'll follow (generally 4 chapters a week) so that our discussions are mutually beneficial and the video series is timely. But if you are on a chapter I've already posted and want to comment on it - great! Go to the blog post about that chapter and comment; I'll get your comment and do my best to respond.
P.S. I tend to carry my book to appointments so I can squeeze in some reading while I'm waiting :)
I hope these tips are helpful. Do you have any other tips you'd like to share? Working quiet time into our busy lives is a challenge and advice is always welcome.
Comment below on your thoughts, insights, and questions for chapters 3 & 4. I can't wait to connect with you and hear what you have to say about your My One Word project so far!
Keep reading, keep writing, and keep praying!
Your Partner in Ministry,
Shelly
honey
"Kind words are like honey - sweet to the soul and healthy for the body." Proverbs 16:24
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