For the month of NOVEMBER, these are the 4 One Words for us to "Focus" on:
EXPECT
the week of November 3
CREATE
the week of November 10
PURPOSE
the week of November 17
INTENTIONALITY
the week of November 24
Please SCROLL way down for this last week's
ONE WORD
for this week
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although the main One Word Focus for all month is
GRATITUDE
actually - for every day
{I stuck this into this blog post, just in case}
I really can't believe
NOVEMBER
is almost over
and
ADVENT
starts the Sunday after Thanksgiving
December 1
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This 1st week's
"There's a big difference between EXPECTation and comprehension ..."
CCR's opening statement continues this thought ...
| It was by faith that Moses left the land of Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger. He kept right on going because he kept his eyes on the One who is invisible. Hebrews 11:27 NLT |
| Proverbs 10:20 ESV; 2 Corinthians 9:8 ESV; Ephesians 3:20 ESV; Matthew 17:20 ESV |
Taking Inventory
the week of November 10
[credit image: Bible (dot com) YV]
| According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building upon it. Let each one take care how he builds upon it. 1 Corinthians 3:10 ESV |
| Ephesians 2:10 ESV; Isaiah 64:8 NASB; Romans 22:6-8 ESV; 1 Timothy 4:14 ESV |
I am sure that CCR has
CREATED
a beautiful devotional
to stir up ones' flow to
CREATE
and much gratitude for our
CREATOR & HIS CREATION
(at least originally)
Reminder of: Taking Inventory
and share in the comments
PURPOSE
[credit image: iBelieve (dot) com]
| Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. Matthew 28:19-20 ESV |
| Psalm 138:8 ESV; Jeremiah 1:5 ESV; Revelation 4:11 ESV; Exodus 9:16 ESV |
Reminder of: Taking Inventory
| James 5:12 ESV; Colossians 4:5 ESV; Jeremiah 10:23 ESV |
Reminder: to do "Taking Inventory"
Many points in this devotional on EXPECT. I'll start out with "Many times, we set our EXPECTations based on our desires rather than on His given instruction from His Word." ... (Ouch!) but so very true, however I think we're hoping that when we do that it is aligning with His (at least, in most cases) yet we are ever too human & sadly too fallen (selfish, fleshly) ouch, ouch. Yes, I am ever so aware that HE is God (and I am not) recurring ouch! and then this the BIG "oucher" "...our trust becomes built on whether HE (?) met or exceeded our EXPECTations." ... must I continue, so convicting ... line after line ... "many times we interchange EXPECT with wish ..." And as usual the best for last "EXPECTations make God's voice the loudest in our lives, letting the foundation of His character form the way we embrace the present, past and future." Thinking BIG now!!! I have the faith to believe and I do EXPECT Him to show up (but not as I wish, how He wills and will ... HE is God, He is in control and He will show up whether I'm ready, willing or not. Yet I will still WAIT and EXPECT Him in my day/week/month/ year ... moment by moment! in 🙏💙 (sigh) I EXPECT there are even more hidden treasures coming as I anticipate all that He assures us in that "His Ways are higher than our ways (always) & His timeline ..." yet to come and be - because He & His Word deliver & exceed all our EXPECTations and I try not to question Him. (but I'm sure I do)
ReplyDeleteI agree with the many “ouches” and conviction filled words. I EXPECT this week will show us several more, too!
DeleteI have to share Sue Boldt's Morning Moment of Prayer: "Morning Moment of Prayer…
DeleteDear Lord Jesus…Oh, how I love that You awaken me each morning with a fresh word to my heart to see me through the day. I know that You are at work in the major decisions facing my country this week, and for these difficult situations in my life or loved ones' lives that I have been seeking You about and battle praying for _______ (name them). I live in perfect peace, knowing that You have every answer. I once again surrender my preconceived ideas about what you should do! My trust is totally in You as I lean into the love and power through the Holy Spirit. In Your Name Above All Names, Jesus, I pray. Amen!"
…He awakens Me morning by morning,
He awakens My ear To hear as the learned.
Isaiah 50:4
https://www.sueboldt.com/moments?
🙏🏻 Love it!
DeleteThe book stayed right on point with EXPECT and EXPECTATIONS. My favorite part was “When we expect God to show up, we lean on it, plan for it, and live in a way as if it has already happened.”
ReplyDelete(I love the picture you chose, as well)
So thankful you shared your favorite part because it's so good (and easier to accept) and that's why I had to add Sue Bold's prayer because it goes with this ... as we lean and EXPECT... the more 🙌🏼ever after ... 💙💚 🛐
DeleteWondering how I missed your favorite part because it really is the BEST ... no conviction, no ouch - just EXPECT God to show up & lean! Much more beautiful to think on this & live & lean & count on His plan (it's gonna happen anyways - according to Him)
DeleteCREATE ... I am sure that CCR has a beautiful depiction of CREATION by our God (based on her opening words) and that she is most likely suggesting that we CREATE something special (based on the Focus Tip) but I have tried yesterday and today, just to sit down and share after reading the devo and time just gets away from me, but honestly, being CREATIVE is probably the furthest thing from my thoughts, even though I do enjoy CREATING, I happen to feel, you need to be in the right mood and inspired to CREATE. That's when your CREATIVE juices begin to flow. I use to think that I was CREATIVE with verse images, or even "blogging" however, for right now, I am thankful just to gaze out my deck window at the sun setting over Lake Louise & thank God for the beauty that HE CREATES & I am able to still see & enjoy each evening, sunny or cloudy, the sun always sets. And today, that bright radiant circle peaking through the bare tree branches, I'm reminded how fall is past and winter is coming. Death has begun once again to cover this land except when I gaze up and see the pine tree tops and what remains of the blue sky, now somewhat gray, yet even with death around us, there is light and a glow, that casts a glimmer onto the lake, reflecting the sun (Son) rays. I'm so glad for the view this evening and the reminder that the Son is reflected in us, to light up the life of others (maybe just for a split second) and God created all the hues of color across the sky to light up His glory - and that is enough! Life comes alive because of Jesus' reflection in the diversity of His planet earth, in all its colors, similarities and differences, but genuinely poured out through us, like those colors of the setting sun, dimly casting an 'orange' horizon and continuing to breathe and splash as the Canadian geese dive & plunge into the lake - just because they can and they hope to still find fish or food. Yes, God is good! God is the Masterpiece of CREATION, each aspect with a purpose and a reason, even if or when we can't quite see it, we are able to connect with our heavenly Father, worship & give thanks for life & death and His divine plan in it all. Hoping to reflect more of the Son, Jesus in whatever I am able to do or CREATE in Jesus' name and through His power & Spirit alive in me. The Trinity completes the beauty, hope, love and joy that my faith (even when weak) finds in His Word & His Creation and the eternal glory of our heavenly Home above. I'm not sure when I will sit down and find an extra minute (without dozing off) to read the CREATE devo and choose a favorite part from CCR, because she CREATES wonderful One Word devotions (and I'm blessed to be reading this one & a few other samples, like BE STILL ... through YV I read 30 of the 90; and her newest (I think) is REVIVE ... and I have REFRESHED and RADIATE samples because I can't choose) and Jennifer Tucker's new book release today "Present in Prayer" (like her "Breath as Prayer") and Asheritah Ciuciu will release one in Dec. with JOY "Delighting in Jesus" (yes, too many choices and prices are going up, but I have credit points to use, just can't decide). Yes, books are CREATIONS also and Jennifer Tucker as her lovely graphics in hers ... oh my ... to be CREATIVE once again and flow with the gifts of God CREATIVELY will one day be my joy again (but not in the near future). May God speak to you throughout this week with CREATE, CREATION, CREATIVITY or however and through the process may you grow closer & be touched deeply by the beauty of life for now. 🙏
ReplyDeleteI agree that one has to be in the right mood and inspired to CREATE (and even the right season)! Your deck view and the awesomeness of creation you experienced was glorious! Basking in God’s glory is a form of creativity because so many might see that same scene and totally miss out on the blessing it is! Dear one, you are filled with CREATIVITY and always have been....just like your Heavenly Father CREATED you!
DeleteThank you Karen! What a blessing you are and your beautiful gift of words to lift me up just at the right moment in time. You put a much needed smile on my face & encouragement in my heart & mind. You seem to have such a CREATIVE way to express also heart to heart from the wonderful heart of our Heavenly Father (just the way He "CREATED you, too) and I receive the blessings so often from you. Right time, right mood, right season & such a heart warming message (here, there & everywhere) that no matter what, God uses you mightily in my life to uplift & move me. I can never thank Him enough for you!
Delete{I didn't realize how much or how long I had written when I got carried away in my CREATE comment inspired by the beauty of His glow as I gazed, until I published. Thank you for reading all that}
From the book I chose : “We are all molded with a unique makeup – consisting of God – given gifts, passions, mindset, and heart. It is this powerful combination that works together to form what we can offer back to God – our service. “
ReplyDeleteSo whether teaching, blogging, caregiving, worshipping, or acknowledging the Lord’s greatness, we are CREATING in our own unique ways, His kingdom come on earth.
Your choice from the CREATE devo also is the best! You selected one that truly ties this altogether. Once again, thank you for how you CREATE beautiful treasures through your unique gift of writing & the beautiful heart God CREATED you with that uniquely blesses me every time. Our CREATOR knew exactly what He was doing when our journeys were united, having crossed through blogging & continued all these years. You are such a special gift to me, in so many ways, a gentle reminder of God's love & grace (even when life may get crazy), you take the time to be Jesus & shine anew in my life! God bless & keep you always (just like this because you shine so much Jesus just when I need it).
DeletePURPOSE - from CCR "... our PURPOSE is essentially pointing to Him in whatever we do, whatever we say, and however we live." {ouch, sometimes} as this quote or saying that's been around says: "You May be the only Bible some people read… You may be the only Jesus some people see…" {really ouch} How we hope to be this! I am fortunate to know one such person 💚 My favorite part was near the end as usual (but not the concluding statement) starting with "...The point of our lives ... (just giving this part so you know what "It" is referring to in the part that I've chosen) "It is the extension of our hands, the willingness of our feet, and the softness of our heart toward those who don't know Jesus that pleases Him"... (no mention of the one word "PURPOSE" but it's in this ...)
ReplyDelete"... Though the particulars of our path may seem confusing at times, His PURPOSE for us is clear."
"We will face opposition, but His PURPOSE for us is sure."
"And we will get discouraged, but His PURPOSE for us is not up for negotiation."
and then comes the Grace & Fulfillment in the conclusion, "outweighing any outcome we can see" ... eternity,
"and bringing heaven to earth." Pretty lofty words but that's our heavenly PURPOSE! Shining Jesus and bringing Him all the glory! 🙌👼🙏
I share your “ouches” and also the blessing of an inspiring example 💙😉
DeleteThe chosen quotes reflect my impressions as well. “Be disciples who make disciples” made me think of all the many ways one can accomplish that by God’s grace. For such time as this, we have been placed in our different surroundings and circumstances to reflect the love of the Lord. (Self, remember that !)
Thank you for letting me know I'm not alone! And also confirming my quotes (but as I reread, I was thinking that I almost shared it all) without leaving you many choices of quotes. But your last comment, once again is a "remember" for each of us in every season in every place or situation - reflect Jesus' love! Our PURPOSE now & forever (but often not being done, especially in this world) far too much self-centeredness
DeleteOh, the PURPOSE Driven Life is such a great book! It left a lasting impression on me and I shared it with Matthew during a time away at “school”. He loved getting letters from home so each week I’d write updates and then send him a chapter of RW’s book. I’ve always felt that was one of my PURPOSES in life!
ReplyDeleteI think every person has regrets on how they used their life lessons at the time. The important thing is to keep moving forward and try our best with God’s help to do what He asks of us. (Easier said than done sometimes)
Oh sis💚what a heart warming PURPOSE truly lived out in sharing that PURPOSE Driven Life with your Matthew! I'm sure that was a very special PURPOSE in your life! Clearly you have made & PURPOSED many of your life lessons so people like me also are blessed by the wisdom you gain & share (& the legacy of music and your gift of writing)! Your last sentences are one example of those "wise" gems. Also your above comment - it's clear that your PURPOSE is pausing & precisely (or concisely) making comments that are wonderful reflections of wisdom shared to apply in our lives as you have or are doing in your own. Your "For such a time as this... " is a remember for me and all of us. (ahh sigh) To love & reflect Jesus' love!
DeleteTruthfully, I'm not sure when I may get to this (and not because of any holiday planning yet I will be giving plenty of thanks, just not the hoop-la) and be able to share about CCR's "INTENTIONALITY". All I can say for me personally, I do much with good INTENTIONS, however I am not very INTENTIONAL (which frankly doesn't make much sense). What I think I'm saying is that I usually mean well but the doing & the outcome are not done INTENTIONALLY, and quite often I INTEND to do whatever I do in kindness, but it often does not happen or done in any way that shows I am being INTENTIONAL in it, perhaps because I use to be quite impulsive but have many lessons learned the hard way, I've become a little better about not being so impulsive (except for sometimes when shopping, however I'm quite frugal - so no concerns there (lol). I think what I'm saying that I'm a bit more careful now (as the Ephesians verse says) and hopefully not too foolish any longer but what I do DO is often without paying attention to any INTENTIONS even if I INTEND to do what I do with goodness & kindness. I'm thinking there's not much INTENTIONALITY in (me) these bones and I need to become more INTENTIONAL, so perhaps after reading CCR's devo words, I'll have a better handle on how to be more INTENTIONAL, and put into practice, especially for Thanksgiving. I'll be thankful for any positive change or gain in me and my life this week, and look for chances to be more INTENTIONAL in what I do or haven't done, but if there is anything that I've been INTENDING to do and not done, it's totally out of the picture since July. I'm not in control of much of what I can or can't do, kinda living in a "limbo" of just not knowing or doing much outside of my home (it's been like this for years, especially since Covid, and now with having had one person gravely impacted, it keeps me even more confined & perhaps fearful of moving out of my safety zone, so I stay within my somewhat comfortable surroundings for now - waiting, not with any INTENTIONS for anyone, really). My life is in God's hands and I will be content with where & how He leads me. Thankful that I know God & He knows me & that still He is watching over me & I hope listening to my many prayers (mostly for others). I give Him thanks for all & hope for better in the days to come.
ReplyDeleteHe knows our heart and gives us grace! I’m most thankful for that!
DeleteThank you as always sis, words of comfort, encouragement & grace - much to be thankful for when it comes to you! Blessings galore!
DeleteThere are several good points from the book but this sentence sums it up perfectly : ”Make time for what matters to Jesus”. Even in that, He gives us so much grace! Knowing our heart intimately, If our good intentions don’t always pan out like we planned He lovingly forgives us! How wonderful is that?!
ReplyDeleteWhen I finished "RADIATE" today, I took out this book to read the INTENTIONALITY devo for this week and I got almost to the end (without finding one that seemed to speak to me) until ... yours "make time for what matters to Jesus" ... front & center, first words of last paragraph & I couldn't agree more with your choice, but then I read on to "Rest in this truth..." that "no one ever looks back or regrets how INTENTIONALLY they lived" right to the very end of "given time to things that last in eternity. Building a legacy ..." {which I might add that you and your wonderful family, before you and currently and after, have done so beautifully IF ONLY ... it could be wrapped and unwrapped by all who truly would be blessed by grabbing hold of your family legacy from grand daddy and probably before ... to your sons and their families} but I'm thinking that it just was a product of your southern living and hospitality and way of your family, that came naturally, not necessarily as I tried to say in my original comment; through INTENTIONALITY. We could say that now in hindsight, but I'm thinking (too much I guess) that you all did what you did/do because of who you are and all you believe and your faith passed on was the difference maker. So I'll go back to what struck me before your great choice ... which is just the question (that I hoped to capture the answer & share)
ReplyDelete"How do we become more INTENTIONAL with our lives?"
I know that CCR goes on to show us but it seemed like she was suggesting if we're serious, we need to block out time (schedule) being INTENTIONAL and having more "fruitful conversation" checking in and living in obedience... etc. - too much to summarize (I guess, or I missed it) and that we need to "... allow the margin to live a more INTENTIONAL life". Perhaps this might be why that I have good INTENTIONS and INTEND to do good or better, but I somehow miss the point or mark of actually living INTENTIONALLY, seems like I live more by chance (which probably is why I haven't; and goes to my point of the poor habit I had more when I was younger of being impulsive). I'm sure that "impulsive" and "intentional" are opposing to each other, unless you're naturally more INTENTIONAL (because sometimes my impulsive things were done with good intentions too) and I know that there are some special people that just seem to have a beautiful knack of kindness. {although the opposite is true also, of people who just don't and selfishness reigns}.
I like so much your emphasis on His grace - it is wonderful and just that aMazing! And His mercies and forgiveness because He knows our hearts capture the heart of the Father, which is just like you, like Jesus, pointing us to our Father & His love! Thank you as always for sharing!