Extravagant Grace

Pursing Wellness: Week 12, Time to Celebrate

2009-07-17T00:01:00.000-07:00

Welcome to our final week of Pursuing Wellness using the First Place 4 Health's, Begin With Christ book as our guide. It has been a 12 week journey that took nearly seven months to complete, but the job is done. Doesn't that feel good, to know that we persevered as we stepped out in faith while also realizing our limitations. Today is a day of reflection, where we can testify to all that we have learned and the many ways we have grown.

Before we get to this week's check-in, I just wanted to remind you that anyone can participate in Pursuing Wellness, beginning at any time, using the First Place 4 Health's, Begin With Christ book as a study guide and simply dropping by here to answer the accountability questions each week. Essentially, you have three options:

If you are starting today, go to this post - Introduction.
If you started on June 12th, continue with the next week listed on the sidebar, according to how many weeks you have already completed. Work your way through and leave a comment / link at that particular post.
If you are picking up from the original start date (January 2009), then you will should be at Week 12 in the book and today is your final check-in.

Let's Celebrate, by sharing our thoughts to the following reflection points:

List some of the benefits you have gained by allowing the Lord to transform your life through this journey. Be mindful that He has been active in all for aspects of your being, so list benefits that you have received in the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual realms.

This journey has opened my eyes to seeing that being a Godly women really does mean taking care of the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual realms. There must be balance in all aspects. I've noticed that this change in my thinking inspires me to exercise more. I also want that to translate to how I eat.

In what ways have you most significantly changed mentally? Have you seen a shift int he way you think about yourself, food, your relationships, or God? How has Scripture Memory been a part of these shifts?

The Scripture memory CDs have probably influenced my life most of all in this journey. I hear the verses often in the tune they were set to at the most unusual times. Mentally, I feel like I've just begun to recognize my thinking patterns in regards to beauty and health, and now that I see how wrong they are, I can take them to the Lord for His truth.

In what ways have you most significantly changed emotionally? Have you begun to identify how your feelings influence your relationship to food and exercise? What are you doing to stay aware of your emotions, both positive and negative?

I've know for some time now that I eat for comfort and to be in control. This study really helped me nailed that down. I am very aware of how my emotions -- and my self-esteem (positive or negative) -- have been the driving force of my eating and exercise. I am trying to change that by focusing on stewardship of my body instead of comforting or indulging myself.

In what ways have you most significantly changed spiritually? How has your relationship with god deepened? How has drawing closer to Him made a difference in the other three areas of your life?

Through the Scripture memory and focus on Christ through this study, I most definitely grew spiritually. Drawing closer to the Lord has brought encouragement as well as healthy conviction.

In what ways have you most changed physically? Have you met or exceeded your weight/measurement goals? How has your healthy improved on this journey?

The biggest change in regards to my physical transformation is more in the sense of perseverance and discipline. Instead of setting a bar too high to reach, giving me a perfect excuse to quit, I set out to "just move" every day. That loose structure has been freeing and has enabled me to continue. I can look at my body and see that it is firmer than it was when I began. I feel more fit. The scale changes up and down weekly, but I keep pressing on.

Thank you so much for joining me on this Pursuing Wellness journey. It has been a long, winding road adventure. We haven't yet reached our final destination, but I'll be getting off at this point to venture out independently, so to speak. Time to see if what I learned will stick! I hope you keep going, seeking the Lord as you pursue healthy living and Godly wellness in Him!

Don't forget to leave a comment below with your link or email address, so that we can send you a note of encouragement. Remember, this is simply an effort of sisters-in-Christ encouraging one another to be physically and spiritually healthy for the glory of God. I am grateful for your partnership and look forward to sharing the journey ahead!

Only because of Him,

Share with others...

Click Here for All Pursuing Wellness Posts

You can also find a listing of each week of study on the sidebar!

Please join in at any time, and feel free to go at your own pace!

Be sure to leave a comment with a link to your blog/post. I'd LOVE it if you would also enable email, according to this great set of instructions, leave your email in the comment, or email your comment directly to me at extragrace at gmail dot com. I want to be in touch with you and the easiest way for me to do that is through email! THANKS!

Wordfilled Wednesday & 24 Verses!

2009-07-15T00:01:00.000-07:00

Enjoy This Verse

Welcome to Wordfilled Wednesday, which once again happens to fall on the same day as my 24 Verses journey. This time, I've picked an inspiring verse from my Bible study homework. I'm reading through Pathway to Purpose for Women, by Katie Brazelton, this summer with a delightful group of women from my church. The fellowship is a true blessing, but the book is also a fantastic read! I've been challenged to be the woman described in this verse, planted along a river bed, full of luscious fruit in every season!

As always, feel free to use the graphic at your blog. It is my gift, because of His grace, to you!

The purpose of Wordfilled Wednesday is to share God’s word (no famous quotes or other literature — only the beautiful word of our Father). You can do so by posting a verse and include a photo or graphic that communicates its message. If you have a short thought related to the verse, feel free to write about it, but with so many gals participating, I would like to encourage you to use Wordfilled Wednesday to be about God's Word alone! This way we can soak in God's Word first and foremost today!

By His Grace,

Visit Amy at 160 Acre Woods next week
for Wordfilled Wednesday!

Leave your link below and enjoy visiting other WFW posts!

* There was a problem with the link list early today, as it was posting from the July 2nd WFW, so for a few of you early birds, you will need to put up your link again...sorry! *

At the Well Today...

2009-07-11T12:14:00.000-07:00

Join me At the Well today for a review of a wonderful Titus 2 book and a few thoughts about what it means to live out the call from Scripture!

By His Grace,

Pursing Wellness: Week 11, Love Defines Discipleship

2009-07-10T00:01:00.000-07:00

Welcome back to our Pursuing Wellness accountability check-in! I can't believe that this post marks the last week of study in the First Place 4 Health's, Begin With Christ book. It has been a long journey, unpacking much about wellness in terms of mind, body, and soul, in light of Christ's place in our lives. While all that remains in this study is a week of reflection, there is still so much to learn and apply. Pursuing Wellness is a lifestyle more than anything else!

Before we get to this week's check-in, I just wanted to remind you that anyone can participate in Pursuing Wellness, beginning at any time, using the First Place 4 Health's, Begin With Christ book as a study guide and simply dropping by here to answer the accountability questions each week. Essentially, you have three options:

If you are starting today, go to this post - Introduction.
If you started on June 12th, continue with the next week listed on the sidebar, according to how many weeks you have already completed. Work your way through and leave a comment / link at that particular post.
If you are picking up from the original start date (January 2009), then you will be moving along with me and should be up to Week 11 in the book. Our questions are contained below in this post.

Let's get going with our checking in:

Answer these questions in a comment below or in a post at your blog. (I will do the same, so that I am an active participant!) Be sure to leave a link!
Share one wellness success and failure from the week.

Share one wellness goal for the upcoming week.

Share one significant point learned from completing the Begin With Christ homework. (click here to order the book from Amazon ) If you'd like, you can share your thoughts based on these points raised:

Have you ever put God's love to the test? What was the result?
How has God demonstrated His love to you in the past? present? future?
What are the benefits of being a child of God?
What ways can you demonstrate your love of God by loving others this week?

Share your weight loss, if you so choose.

Share one way others can specifically pray for you in your pursuit of wellness.
Don't forget to leave a comment below with your link or email address, so that we can send you a note of encouragement.*

Remember, this is simply an effort of sisters-in-Christ encouraging one another to be physically and spiritually healthy for the glory of God. I am grateful for your partnership and look forward to sharing the journey ahead!

Only because of Him,

Share with others...

Click Here for All Pursuing Wellness Posts

You can also find a listing of each week of study on the sidebar!

Please join in at any time, and feel free to go at your own pace!

Be sure to leave a comment with a link to your blog/post. I'd LOVE it if you would also enable email, according to this great set of instructions, leave your email in the comment, or email your comment directly to me at extragrace at gmail dot com. I want to be in touch with you and the easiest way for me to do that is through email! THANKS!

Prayer Day!

2009-07-09T04:19:00.001-07:00

Psalm 54:2
Hear my prayer, O God; listen to the words of my mouth.

Prayer on the 9's in 2009 is simply this: A commitment to pray on the 9th, 19th, and 29th of each month for the people the Lord has brought into our lives or placed on our hearts.

Since today is the 9th, my focus is on my immediate and extended family. Later this month, I'll lift up my church and small group, followed by my community and the ministries I am involved in, as well as our government and leaders.

God calls us to prayer. He wants to hear our thoughts and surrender our desires to His will. Prayer changes us, but it also moves God, too. Will you join me in this commitment to Prayer on the 9's in 2009? If so, get on your knees, or on your face, or with your hands raised, and speak to the Lord on behalf of His people!

By His Grace Alone,

Wordfilled Wednesday ~ Habukkuk 3:18b

2009-07-08T03:53:00.000-07:00

Enjoy This Verse

Thanks for stopping by Wordfilled Wednesday! The Lord has laid this particular verse on my heart for over a year now, but I am only just starting to get it. Instead of finding joy in my circumstances -- or moreover, in what I accomplish -- I am to find JOY in God my Savior. This truth is revolutionizing how I prioritize my day and what I am willing to make commitment to. It is turning my life upside down, in such a powerful way, setting me free from the bondage of busyness and opening up a world of JOY that I never knew before. I pray for the Lord to show you today how to be JOYFUL in HIM alone! Feel free to grab this verse, as a reminder of this powerful truth!

By His Grace,

Be sure to visit 160AcreWoods today for more WFW!

Stop by next week for my last hosting of WFW.
It has been wonderful to minister to all of you through this meme,
but the commitment to visit so many blogs is just too much
for this season of mothering and ministry in my life right now.
Thanks for understanding!

illustration credit: http://groovyinclinations.blogspot.com

Sweet New Fun with Some Stones

2009-07-04T12:45:00.000-07:00

I have been a bloggy pal with Kim of Scattered Stones for some precious time now. She is such a delight and encourager, easy going and pleasant. And that exactly describes the blessing of creating a new blog look for her this past week. Easy, fun, and enjoyable. Head on over to Scattered Stones to say "Hi" to Kim and check out her new look.

By His Grace,

Pursuing Wellness: Week 10 - More Commitment

2009-07-03T00:01:00.000-07:00

Hello again! How are you doing in your Pursuing Wellness journey?

I have to admit, I'm glad mine is coming to an end so that I can launch into the future with what I've learned. I'm realizing as I approach the last two chapters of the First Place 4 Health's, Begin With Christ study, that Pursuing Wellness is a life-long commitment. I will have to continue to build on and implement what I've learned. That will definitely be a challenge!

I can also see how this program is entirely different from every other health or diet planned I've used. With the foundational points built around Scripture, it will be impossible to forget what I have learned. Each time I come across one of those significant memory verses, I will certainly be challenged to be live for Christ in my mind, soul, and especially body.

As a quick reminder, anyone can participate in Pursuing Wellness, beginning at any time, using the First Place 4 Health's, Begin With Christ book as a study guide and simply dropping by here to answer the accountability questions each week. Essentially, you have three options:

If you are starting today, go to this post - Introduction.
If you started on June 12th, continue with the next week listed on the sidebar, according to how many weeks you have already completed. Work your way through and leave a comment / link at that particular post.
If you are picking up from the original start date, then you will be moving along with me and should be up to Week 1o in the book. Our questions are contained below in this post.

Let's get going with our checking in:

Answer these questions in a comment below or in a post at your blog. (I will do the same, so that I am an active participant!) Be sure to leave a link!
Share one wellness success and failure from the week.

Share one wellness goal for the upcoming week.

Share one significant point learned from completing the Begin With Christ homework. (click here to order the book from Amazon ) If you'd like, you can share your thoughts based on these points raised:

Until this week, what has been your definition of commitment?
How does that line up with God's perspective?
How does having an accountability partner in this journey help you remain committed?
In what areas of your life or health have you faced opposition? Did you persevere? What was the end result?
What is your commitment to the Pursuing Wellness journey?

Share your weight loss, if you so choose.

Share one way others can specifically pray for you in your pursuit of wellness.
Don't forget to leave a comment below with your link or email address, so that we can send you a note of encouragement.*

Share with others...

Click Here for All Pursuing Wellness Posts

You can also find a listing of each week of study on the sidebar!

Please join in at any time, and feel free to go at your own pace!

*Mister Linky will no longer be available at Extravagant Grace. Please leave a comment with a link to your blog/post. I'd LOVE it if you would also enable email, according to this great set of instructions, leave your email in the comment, or email your comment directly to me at extragrace at gmail dot com. I want to be in touch with you and the easiest way for me to do that is through email! THANKS!

Powering Up Adds Fuel to the Fire

2009-07-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

Pastor and author Jack Graham offers a solid new addition to anyone's bookshelf in his latest title, Powering Up: The Fulfillment and Fruit of a God-fueled Life. Inspired by an ordinary experience with trying to get his TV to work, he walked away thinking, "What would it look like to power up our relationship with God when life hits a glitch and the juice seems to stop flowing?"

His answers to powering up our walk fill the pages of this book. It is an easy to read, reflective journey, peppered with illustrations from the real lives of real people and well as relevant Scripture passages. As I find true with male authors, it lacks flowery and poetic language but matter-of-factually delivers a spiritual inventory, seeking to challenge and equip the reader with tools needs to power up every aspect of their life.

Here's a quick word from the publishers:

Fatigue, inconsistency, and complacency can easily permeate our spiritual lives, especially when facing seasons of trial. We may become weary in maintaining a disciplined prayer life, become enslaved to hard-to-break habits, have difficulty controlling our thoughts, our mouths, and our appetites. The result is often a defeated life distanced from Christ.

In Powering Up, Jack Graham points to Christ and expounds God's Word to remind readers that the same power that raised Christ from the dead is at work in us. Graham also casts vision for the church, that she may display Christ to the world as God equips her to execute his work for his glory.

Graham delivers a book worth reading, presenting a wonderful personal challenge for a new believer through a seasoned Christian to live a life powered up by the work of Jesus.

Wordfilled Wednesday & 24 Verses: 1 Peter 4:10

2009-07-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

and

Enjoy This Verse

Welcome to Wordfilled Wednesday, which also happens to fall on the same day as my 24 Verses journey, so if you don't mind I get to use one verse for both! As always, feel free to use the graphic at your blog. It is my gift, because of His grace, to you!

The purpose of Wordfilled Wednesday is to share God’s word (no famous quotes or other literature — only the beautiful word of our Father). You can do so by posting a verse and include a photo or graphic that communicates its message. If you have a short thought related to the verse, feel free to write about it, but with so many gals participating, I would like to encourage you to use Wordfilled Wednesday to be about God's Word alone! This way we can soak in God's Word first and foremost today!

I hope to visit your blog over the next week. However, with summer vacation upon us, family coming into town this weekend, my twins 4th birthday on Monday (blessing!), and my sweet spiritual-daughter returning (today) from a month long missions trip, I won't be at the computer much. Please know how much I appreciate you, even if I don't get to leave you a comment this week!

By His Grace,

Visit Amy at 160 Acre Woods next week
for Wordfilled Wednesday!

Leave your link below and enjoy visiting other WFW posts!

Stretch 4 Life DVD

2009-06-30T00:01:00.001-07:00

I wasn't quite sure what to expect from a DVD about stretching. Would it be entertaining, like an exercise video? Would it be informative?

I've had my fair share of injuries and physical therapy, so I know a bit about stretching. Like most women, however, I need an extra kick in the pants to keep on with the healthy routine. I was hoping that the brand new Stretch 4 Life DVD would offer inspiration and technique. Now that I have it in hand, I'm looking forward to sharing it with my mom, who is currently recovering from a neck injury.

This DVD isn't about jazzing up exercise or burning calories. It is an informative and instructive video on how to stretch every part of the body. Here's what the publisher's have to say about it:

Flexibility is an important aspect of overall health and well-being. The body has an enormous and amazing way of healing, and incorporating simple stretching exercises can be extremely helpful in speeding up recovery as well as in maintaining good physical fitness. Licensed massage therapist and educator Lori Walter has developed Stretch 4 Life, a proven and effective tool for people of any age and level of muscular fitness. By using this full body stretch routine, relaxation and flexibility can easily be achieved. The Stretch 4 Life DVD and manual are a wonderful resource for anyone who wishes to pursue enhanced health and well-being. This fabulous routine will also help reinforce healthy habits.

With this practical and easy to use program, Stretch 4 Life will enable anyone to achieve increased flexibility. Tailor any stretch sequence you need to aid in your journey to better health. Individuals can get started with only a few simple stretches to begin the healing process. Later, as the range of motion and strength improve, individuals can increase the specialized plan by simply incorporating additional stretches from the manual and DVD.

Lori Walter is a licensed massage therapist and stretch instructor. She has developed this Stretch 4 Life routine over her 13 years of work with the goal to help people heal and repair their structural integrity. For more information or to place and order, visit www.Stretch4Life.com.

If you are looking for a basic stretch program that is focused and comprehensive, Stretch 4 Life will meet your needs.

Because of Him,

Prayer Day!

2009-06-29T11:56:00.000-07:00

It is the 29th, so let's pray for our communities,
the ministries we are involved in,
as well as our government and leaders.

Bruise those knees, girlfriends!

Pursuing Wellness: Week 9, Filled with the Spirit

2009-06-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome back! I hope you are finding this adventure in Pursuing Wellness a rewarding, albeit difficult at times, journey! As a quick reminder, anyone can participate in Pursuing Wellness, beginning at any time, using the First Place 4 Health's, Begin With Christ book as a study guide or simply dropping by to answer the accountability questions each week. Essentially, you have three options:

If you are starting today, go to this post - Introduction.
If you started on June 12th, continue with the next week listed on the sidebar, according to how many weeks you have already completed. Work your way through and leave a comment / link at that particular post.
If you are picking up from the original start date, then you will be moving along with me and should be up to Week 9 in the book, and our questions are contained below in this post.

So Let's get going with our checking in:

This week's work was definitely a challenge for me, simply because I was sick with a flu-like bug for almost the whole week. Exercise and healthy eating was swallowed up by sleep and days of dry toast. As such, my answers to my questions will be somewhat vague, as my ability to process the information was a little blurred. Nonetheless, I want to press on, for your sake and mine.

Answer these questions in a comment below or in a post at your blog. (I will do the same, so that I am an active participant!) Be sure to leave a link!
Share one wellness success and failure from the week.

Share one wellness goal for the upcoming week.

Share one significant point learned from completing the Begin With Christ homework. (click here to order the book from Amazon ) If you'd like, you can share your thoughts based on these points raised:

What did you learn about where the Spirit takes up residence?
Did that fact change how you feel about caring for your body?
What does the Spirit do for us?
Would you be willing to share the sins of excess in your life?
What song of worship fills your mouth with praise fitting for today?

Share your weight loss, if you so choose.

Share one way others can specifically pray for you in your pursuit of wellness.
Don't forget to leave a comment below with your link or email address, so that we can send you a note of encouragement.*

Share with others...

Click Here for All Pursuing Wellness Posts

You can also find a listing of each week of study on the sidebar!

Please join in at any time, and feel free to go at your own pace!

*Mister Linky will no longer be available at Extravagant Grace. Please leave a comment with a link to your blog/post. I'd LOVE it if you would also enable email, according to this great set of instructions, leave your email in the comment, or email your comment directly to me at extragrace at gmail dot com. I want to be in touch with you and the easiest way for me to do that is through email! THANKS!

Give Them More of the Word

2009-06-25T00:01:00.000-07:00

Crossway Publisher's has recently shared two wonderful books with me, which at first I thought were simply for kids but have since decided have an equal blessing for parents and teachers alike.

Let's Explore God's World, by Debby Anderson, is a classic children's book, with beautiful illustrations and simple to read language that wonderfully incorporates Scripture. It is certainly a modern-day lesson, full of tips on recycling, reusing, and environmental stewardship, but not in a political agenda sort of manner. Instead, my delighted three-year-olds soaked in the colorful illustrations while picking up a few new ways to appreciate and care for God's creation. I am delighted to add this book to our children's library.

The second book I looked at was A Family Guide to the Bible, by Christin Ditchfield. I have to admit, at first I thought this was going to be similar to a devotional book and found myself puzzled at how to use it. But on a close review, I realized this isn't necessarily a book to read to your middle school children, but rather a resource to get up to speed on the history and relevance of the Bible so that as a parent, teacher, Sunday school, or VBS assistant, you would have the answers at a moments notice.

The author explains what's in the Bible, where to find it, and how it all fits together. She provides an easy to comprehend format--including a summary of the history, authority, and message of the Bible, key verses and words, practical study tips, reading plans, maps, and much more.

With all Ditchfield included, this is a worthy resource to put on an accessible shelf and use through the years for spiritual growth and training.

By His Grace,

Wordfilled Wednesdays ~ Galatians 2:20-21

2009-06-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, I like a simple design that has nothing but words. It forces me to concentrate on the message and not be distracted by the beautiful graphics. The Lord is impressing GRACE upon me again, and the power of His blood at work in my life. I pray you take an extra minute to consider the power of grace offered to you by our Lord Jesus Christ today, too.

Be sure to visit Amy at 160 Acre Woods to link up with you WFW post.

By His Grace,

A Brand New Father's Day

2009-06-21T04:08:00.001-07:00

May I share something very personal with you? I hesitate to do so because some things ought to be private, especially in our relationship with the Lord. But I feel such an urging to share my heart today because it really does testify of God's extravagant grace. I am certain that what I have to share may challenge many of you to take the next step in your faith walk.

Many of you know that my father has not spoken to me in 18 months. It has been a difficult season of grieving, healing, grieving again, and most recently a profound healing. I've dreaded father's day even in the midst of celebrating my husband. This morning was markedly different. My heart overflowed with gratitude and love for my Heavenly Father like never before. I was tugged out of bed by the Holy Spirit earlier than any other morning in the past few weeks. I poured a hot cup of coffee, snuggled into my chair, and began to write in my prayer journal. The outpouring of my heart took me by surprise, and God's answer was life-transforming. I want to share it with you. You need this truth, too, on what should be the best day of the year -- celebrating our Heavenly Father.

6.21.09 Father's Day
Happy Father's Day! You are my only dad. Really. It is sad, but also good. I can turn to you and know that I am loved and provided for. That is more than most have in this world--more than they know or realize. You have been so good to me. You have brought me through trail and challenge. You have given me good things and hardships to develop my character, cause me to see my own depravity, and recognize my need for a Savior. Thank you, Lord. I am who I am because you are who you are. You made me. You know all the days of my life. You are proud of me, love me, and cherish me. Thank you, Abba. Thank you for making me feel like a beloved daughter today instead of as an orphan. You have not left me -- no way, no how. Thank you, DAD! Thank you! Please, Father, all that I ask of you today is for you to fill my father's heart with yourself and draw him near to you. In Jesus Name. Amen.

I sat in silence for a short time, anticipating my Bible study homework. But I was distracted by the thoughts spewing around in my mind.

"You are a disappointment."

I knew, because of much pain and healing this past week that the Enemy was on me again. He seeks to steal, kill, and destroy. He is the father of lies, and wanted to rule my mind and rob my joy. So I did what I am learning to do. Pray! Again! I picked up my journal,

Lord, the lie that I hear over and over again is that I am my father's "greatest disappointment." I know this is not true. What he said is that he is disappointed in me. I know that he spoke from hurt, and I know it is about much more than me. Yet emotionally, I process all this as "You are a disappointment." This is the greatest lie Satan spins my way. What is the truth you have for me? Jesus what do you say about this? Speak, for your servant is listening.

I sat quietly. I begged again for truth from the Word. I sat longer. Jesus spoke.

You are not a disappointment and you already know that...because you are saved by GRACE through faith not by works. (Ephesians 2:8)
Your worth is in the cross. Is my death not enough for you? Is it not enough to prove my love for you through my death and resurrection? For proving that you are worth dying for. You are loved, because of who you are -- my daughter -- not because of what you do.

What a life-transforming truth that hit me straight in the heart, like never before. I prayed again and came to one more profound truth...

Thank you Jesus for speaking your truth to me. Help me to live in it today and always.
Disappointment is the earthly expression of a broken heart being put on another soul that can not heal it.

My sweet friends, you are not a disappoint to the Lord, either. You don't need to be more than you are. You worth is not wrapped up in what you do, what you accomplish, what label you carry, how many followers or hits you have, what role you play in any of your relationships. You are a child of the Most High God who sent His one and only Son to die on the cross for the forgiveness of our sins. He rose again and sits at the right hand of the Father. He is our righteousness. He is our worth. Is His life in exchange for yours not enough? Now live like you know it is!

By His Grace, always and only,

Worship the Lord, yield yourself to His truth!

God's Seal

2009-06-21T04:04:00.000-07:00

I wasn't quite sure what to expect at a "Seal Release," as I am not a huge marine animal activist nor do I pay any attention to animal rescues. I think my sensitive nature demands a disconnect when it comes to animals because I get so easily attached and emotionally drained. (I struggle with this tendency with people, too!) But when my eldest daughter asked to go to see a rescued seal release, having learned about it through a visit to the local aquarium, it was hard to turn her down. It was free, not to far away, and something educational. I had no idea there would also be a spiritual component to the whole experience. Let me show you, as pictures tell a thousand words.

Meet Lucifer. Yes, a terrible name for a seal, but apparently it describes his personality. He was brought down to the beach in a dog crate, which was opened on the sand about 15 feet from the water. Apparently gray seals can be a bit aggressive as well as resistant to being returned to their natural environment. Instead of heading to the water, they often head toward the onlookers or run down the beach. The red boards are meant for protection.

Lucifer wasn't at all keen about coming out of the crate. He cowered long enough to make me wonder if we'd be there through lunch and dinner. I knew how he felt. I often want to stay in the familiarity of captivity rather than experience the freedom of the unknown.

Slowly, he made his way fully out of the crate, looking around at the two dozen spectators. We were all very excited, until Lucifer turned completely around, heading right back to his crate. The wise handler already had it shut. She had done this thing before and was well prepared for Lucifer to return to the comforts of his recent home.

Returning was not an option. He caught on quick, turned back around, weaved back and forth on the beach, before finally entering the water. The irony is he kept looking back. It reminded me of Lot's wife, although Lucifer wasn't turned to a pillar of salt. You should have seen the look in his eye. They pierced my heart. What a lost soul!

How often I want to look back, head into the comforts of my familiar past, instead of pressing forward toward the great wide open experience before me. For Lucifer the seal, the confines of a crate felt more secure than the freedom of an ocean. But his handlers knew his life was destined for the ocean blue, like my Handler knows my life is created to serve set free in Christ, not held captive by my past. I am marked by God's seal, the blood of Christ. With that comes a future of freedom and purpose, not captivity.

Are you sealed by God? Are you living like that? Or are you still sticking close to the crate of captivity and sin?

God's timing is always perfect. This morning, I received this very appropriately named devotional from Anne Graham Lotz. Enjoy!

God's Seal
by Anne Graham Lotz
If anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His.
Romans 8:9, NKJV

In the Garden of Eden, God had been with man.
In the Old Testament, God had appeared to man.
In the Tabernacle, God had dwelt among men.
In the history of Israel, God had spoken through man.
In the Gospels, God was visible as Man.
But at Pentecost, God became available to dwell in man!
Until that Pentecost two thousand years ago, people were saved by faith in Jesus Christ, even though they didn't know His Name. Their faith was demonstrated by the obedient sacrifices they made at the temple as they symbolically looked forward to the cross. Since Pentecost, we are still saved by faith in Jesus Christ. But our faith looks back to His sacrifice, which has already been made on our behalf at the cross. Additionally, we now have the experience of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, Who seals our "rebirth," or "conversion." Do you bear God's "Seal" of authentic conversion?

from the AnGeL Ministries Website
For more about The Joy of My Heart

By His Grace,

Spotlights & Awards

2009-06-20T00:01:00.000-07:00

Thank you, Michelle of Lollypops and Lizards

Thank You, Graceful Abandon!

Prayer for the Body!

2009-06-19T04:42:00.000-07:00

My year of intentional living continues to press on with each passing "9." Today is the 19th, and so I will be lifting up my church and small group in prayer to the Lord.

On the one hand, it is an overwhelming task. On the other, I know it isn't about me telling the Lord what I think He should do, but rather about spending time talking with my Abba about things that concern me in my local body of Christ.

This morning, I can picture the similarity between myself and my daughter, realizing that in the same way she crawled into my lap (and she is almost to big to fit!) and began sharing her thoughts on life and school, the Lord also wants me to snuggle into His laps and tell him exactly how I feel about my church and the needs of my Christian friends.

Prayer is not about commanding God to do something -- boy don't we hate it when someone demands something of us -- but rather an opportunity to share the inside of our souls with our very own, attentive maker. Will you join me today in praying for the body of Christ in your neck of the woods? I hope so.

By His Grace,

Pursing Wellness: Week 8, Radical Transformation

2009-06-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to another week of accountability! Whether this is your first time at Pursuing Wellness, or if you have been here before, I am glad to have you. There have been lots of questions in how to participate, so let me give a quick review. First, let me mention that I am using the First Place 4 Health's, Begin With Christ book as our study. That is where the questions are coming from, as well as the title for each week, but you can participate regardless by using this for wellness accountability. Essentially, you have three options:

If you are starting today, go to this post - Introduction.
If you started last week, June 12th, continue with the next post - Week 1 or if you got ahead in the book, Week 2
If you are picking up from the original start date, then you will be moving along with me and should be up to Week 8, which is contained below in this post.

So Let's get going with our checking in:

Answer these questions in a comment below or in a post at your blog. (I will do the same, so that I am an active participant!) Be sure to leave a link!
Share one wellness success and failure from the week.

Share one wellness goal for the upcoming week.

Share one significant point learned from completing the Begin With Christ homework. (click here to order the book from Amazon ) If you'd like, you can share your thoughts based on these points raised:

• Which translation of Romans 12:2 spoke the most to you and why?
• What diet or exercise plans have you tried in the past? Why didn't they work long term?
• How does the world drag you down? How does God bring out the best in you?

Share your weight loss, if you so choose.

Share one way others can specifically pray for you in your pursuit of wellness.
Don't forget to leave a comment below with your link or email address, so that we can send you a note of encouragement.*

Share with others...

Click Here for All Pursuing Wellness Posts

You can also find a listing of each week of study on the sidebar!

Please join in at any time, and feel free to go at your own pace!

*Mister Linky will no longer be available at Extravagant Grace. Please leave a comment with a link to your blog/post. I'd LOVE it if you would also enable email, according to this great set of instructions, leave your email in the comment, or email your comment directly to me at extragrace at gmail dot com. I want to be in touch with you and the easiest way for me to do that is through email! THANKS!

Wordfilled Wednesdays ~ Psalm 46:10

2009-06-17T00:01:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been in a season of indescribable busyness, pulled in a thousand good directions? Have you ever felt distant from God, even though you are going through the motions of the relationship with Him and continue to be in service to Him?

That's where I am right now. This verse reminds me that the one thing I must do is Be Still -- somehow, someway to be still both in my soul and in my actions -- so that I may know Him. From that place, I will be able to hear His voice and heed His call.

I pray for a stillness of the Lord for all of us today. May we soak in His Word and allow it to still us from the inside out!

There won't be a Mister Linky, as it has been acting up and corrupting blogs recently. Please leave a comment with a link to your WFW post! It would also be great if you would enable your blog profile to show on your name when you leave a comment, this way we can find your blog if your link is broken: Go to dashboard -> edit profile -> check the first box to share profile -> save. (And while you are there, you can check the "show email" box so that your comments can be replied to by email.) Thanks!

Remember, the purpose of Wordfilled Wednesday is to share God’s Word, (no famous quotes or other literature — only the beautiful word of our Father) through a photo or graphic rendering with a Bible verse! Anything that does not fit this description will be removed.

Please join us at Amy's next week!

How about meeting God after a night of speed dating?

2009-06-16T10:24:00.000-07:00

It isn't exactly a story line I would have conceived of, but authors Cheryl McKay and Rene Gutteridgeit do a pretty good job setting the scene in Never the Bride for an unexpected debut of God in the life of Jessie Stone. She is a young woman, passionate about love and forever searching for her soul-mate. Whether it is her quirky nature or mere obsession with hating singleness that keeps her from being hitched is up to the reader to decide. That is, until God steps in and challenges her to trust Him with the fate of her love life.

As a married woman, I found myself cringing at her journey, remembering the lonely days of singleness, yet equally convicted that I trust God as little as Miss Jessie when it comes to my fate and future. Seeing God appear, plain as day and as handsome as my husband, made me a bit uncomfortable, but in a good way.

This may be a novel, but there is certainly an element of life application that is unavoidable to the spirit-sensitive reader. Fortunately, I'm not finished reading this unusual love story, so I can't accidentally give away the ending. But I can share a few more words from the publisher and recommend that you pick up this book for a light-hearted summer read.

Jessie Stone has spent thirty-five years fantasizing about marriage proposals, wedding dresses, and falling in love. She’s been a bridesmaid eleven times, waved dozens of couples off to sunny honeymoons, and shopped in more department stores for half-price fondue pots than she cares to remember.

But shopping in the love-of-her-life department hasn't been quite as productive. The man she thought she would marry cheated on her. The crush she has on her best friend Blake is at very best…well, crushing. And speed dating has only churned out memorable horror stories.

So when God shows up one day, in the flesh, and becomes a walking, talking part of her life, Jessie is skeptical. What will it take to convince her that God has a better love story than one of the thousands she’s cooked up in her journals? Will she trust Him with her pen when it appears her dreams of being the bride are forever lost?

A romantic comedy with a spiritual twist, Never the Bride: A Novel is what it means to lose control—and getting more than any woman could ever imagine.

Author Bios
Cheryl McKay is the co-author (with Frank Peretti) of the Wild and Wacky, Totally True Bible Stories series, which has sold nearly 200,000 copies, and the screenwriter of the award-winning film The Ultimate Gift. Rene Gutteridge has published thirteen novels including Ghost Writer, My Life as a Doormat, the Boo Series, the Occupational Hazards Series, and the Storm Series. Together, McKay and Gutteridge are the authors of The Ultimate Gift, a novelization based on the feature film and popular book by the same title.

You can pick up your copy of Never the Bride: A Novel at Amazon.

24 Verses: Romans 12:2

2009-06-15T03:57:00.000-07:00

Join me in soaking in my 12th memory verse in the LPM Siesta Scripture memory challenge, or feel free to pick you own!

This time, I chose a verse that coincides with the memory verse for week 8 in the First Place 4 Health's, Begin With Christ study, which I'm using for the Pursuing Wellness Bible Study and accountability group. I have to say, this study is fantastic. It is about so much more than physical health. It is about spiritual health, weaving Biblical principles into life application in ways I had never conceived of before. For example, the opening prayer for today was about much more than health...

Gracious God, so often I grow impatient. Help me learn to wait on Your will, Your way, and Your time. Amen.

The study looked at the parable of the mustard seed, drawing an analogy of how life change will start small but can grow beyond imagination. While I answered the questions in regards to my health and fitness, the prayer and principle drawn from Scripture was relevant to my whole life. The truth is that I have been growing impatient in many areas, wanting to see growth and direction now, not later. So I walked away from today's lesson refueled to wait on the Lord and trust His work in my parenting, marriage, ministry, and health, bringing me right back to the Scripture principle of this week: I will be transformed from the inside out, through the renewing of my mind.

June 15 / Verse 12

Enjoy This Verse

Click here for the 24 Verses posted in this series.

Real Life is Really Hard!

2009-06-14T10:35:00.001-07:00

Somehow, I feel like I missed out on the bulletin announcement that declared that real life is really hard. I know I grew up with the philosophy that hard work pays off (and with the unspoken message that if you work hard enough and make enough money, and get everything done, you will be happy and life will be easy), but I've been an adult long enough to know that that is just not true. Money never satisfies, hard work never ends, and there is always work to be done. So why is it that I still expect life to get easier?

Not only did I miss out on the truth that real life is really hard, but I also missed the lesson on how to persevere with a positive attitude. Instead I am a regularly frustrated woman constantly trying to make my world perfect and easier. Moreover, I am too easily annoyed by the inconveniences of life and the repetitive nature of sin in myself and others, instead of responding with compassion and gentleness.

I must be honest. I am tired of real life, and exhausted by trying to make real life easy. I would like a long vacation on a deserted island -- no, not deserted, more like a pampered island where many gentle-folk would come along to please my every whim. I dream of seeing my toes transformed from calloused to soft and beautifully polished, to feel the release of tension in my shoulders after a nice long back rub, to have my appetite refreshed with healthy food followed by a feeding of scrumptious bon-bons. But wait, the dream isn't over. Oh how I'd completely love uninterrupted time to think, pray, reflect quietly, and when I am totally relaxed, to be able to romantically enjoy my husband. And most of all, I'd love my kids to be around, smiling, happy, joyful, and obedient, without ever messing up the peace or requiring me to step up to the parenting plate!

Now doesn't that sound wonderful. But it isn't real life. It is a dream -- a dream that doesn't exist, never will, and most likely would never satisfy my soul. Real life is tiring and requiring, with rewards too great to measure on a day-in-day-out basis. Real life means changing a sleepy-eyed little boy out of his soaking jammies before sipping my first cup of coffee. It means pulling a neck muscle while trying to dislodge the unbalanced washer. It means standing in the rain with a dog who doesn't want to do his business (need to get him together with the little boy). It means relentless training up of the hearts of my kiddos, even when I've said the same thing a over and over again, forgetting that this particular child has only heard it a few times and it was the other one that heard it last week, or last month, or last year.

Yes, real life requires perseverance. It requires serving even if there are no visible signs of appreciation. It means being consistent with the kids, even when I feel like I have no energy left. It means putting a smile on my face as I load the dishwasher and wipe down the counters for the umpteenth time. It means saying "I'm sorry!" to my daughter when my training point turned into a harsh-lecture instead of a gentle rebuke. It means leaning into the Scriptures for the truth and wisdom, and not allowing my feelings to dictate my attitude or actions.

Real life requires real truth. And the truth is this, that according to God's economy...

"He who refreshes others will himself be refreshed." Proverbs 11:25b

and that we all

"... need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, [we] will receive what he has promised." Hebrews 10:36

These promises are set aside for all us that believe in Jesus. We will find them fully realized in heaven, not necessarily on earth (although the Lord does give us good gifts here in the flesh). Our actions and acts of service are never meant to please man, therefore we will never be appreciated enough by our families. But we can serve God, from our hearts, even when real life gets tiring and hard. We can turn to Jesus as our source of strength, knowing He promises to be strong when we are weak. We can remind our self that our worth is not based on our work and that our faith must be based on grace.

Real life is really hard. The question is will my attitude -- will our attitudes -- reflect that of a worn out, weary woman, or rather a saved-by-grace, persevering daughter of the King?

I want to be the later, even though I am more often the former. God is showing me, through real life, that the key is to being the woman I want to be is to renew my mind with the truth as opposed to allowing my feelings to dictate my response. It means accepting the fact that real life is really hard, rather than getting caught up in dreams of a reality that won't ever refresh. It means serving my family and others, even when that feels like the last thing I'd ever want to do, trusting that pouring another glass of milk is much sweeter than savoring a bon-bon on a deserted beach.

Because of Him, I pray you are encourage to persevere in this real life call. Tell me, what tires you about real life? And tell me what Jesus says about it, too.

Part 1: Great Bible Study Options!

2009-06-13T00:01:00.000-07:00

As a women's ministry leader, I am continually looking for Bible studies that will challenge me to personally grow in my faith as well as be viable for small group study. I also have a searching eye on materials that would train up women and challenge current leaders to take the next step.

It is so important for women to come together, spend time in the Word, and grow in the truth. Finding a good study that is doable in terms of content and time commitment, and able to transcend a varied audience, is quite a challenge. And finding the time to do the research to find a great study is just as hard to come by. That being said, here is a list of some recent books and studies, as well as a few oldies but goodies, that would make for a good summer time study option or fall semester offering. I hope and pray this collection opens the door of possibilty for your ministry and personal growth.

New and Promising Options
I have not completed any of these particular studies, but after doing a thorough review, I do believe they are viable considerations for personal and corporate growth!

BE Hopeful: 1 Peter, from the BE series

This new adition to the BE series produced by David C. Cook publishers and edited by Dr. Warren W. Wiersbe, an internationally known Bible teacher, former pastor of The Moody Church in Chicago, and the author of more than 150 books, has a very traditional study feel. Each chapter includes commentary and questions intended for personal reflection and group discussion. It is thin book, so it seems simple at first glance. Wiersbe is anything but simple, however. He has packed this little book full of imformation that the soul must digest and chew throughout the study. Dr. Wiersbe, "skillfully weaves Scripture with historical explanations and thought-provoking questions, communicating the Word in such a way that the masses grasp its relevance for today." For women looking to grow in the Word without a lot of flowery language or an intense emotional journey, this study is perfect.

Live Relationally & Live Deeply, from the Fresh Life series

This series is enticing and refreshing. It not only looks perfect for groups or individual study, but also looks meaty. It has the "Beth Moore" daily commitment of 20 minutes a day for a meaningful contemplation of God’s Word, while using the "Kay Arthur" inductive method style.

Live Relationally offers a fresh look at the important women of Genesis. With probing questions, insightful sidebars, and meaningful life-application exercises, Live Relationally offers the vivid lessons and rich wisdom of Israel’s founding mothers.

Live Deeply is for anyone who has ever read one of Jesus’ parables and asked, “What is He talking about?” Now women—alone or with a small group—can dig deeper into the meaning of these parables to uncover their important meaning for their walks with Christ.

Pathway to Purpose for Women, by Katie Brazelton

Would you like to be renewed in your passions, refocused in your life, and walk away with practical, biblical tools? If so, than this is the study for you and your women. Katie takes her life experience and infamous life coaching skills and puts them in a digestable format for women in all stages of life. This book is full of energy, challenging women to seek their God-given purpose, right where they are in life!

Through His Eyes: God's Perspective on Women in the Bible, by Jerram Barrs

This book can't help but scream, "It is time to grow women! It is time to dig deeper." The cover art alone invites you to study what might possibly lie inside its densely filled chapters. And upon opening, you know this is "no sissy read." It is a modern-day textbook unpacking and repackaging familar Scriptures about famously known women in the Bible: Eve, Sarah, Rahab, Tamar, Ruth...to name a few. Barrs provides spiritual food for the hungry soul through the Scriptures.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where I'll share another collection of Tried and True Studies! You can also visit my collection of resource recommendations.

Because of Him,