8 in 2008: July 8th Check-In Time

Psalm 37:4

Delight yourself in the LORD and
he will give you the desires of your heart.


I say this every month, but I still can't believe how fast time flies by. We are half way through the year, and can easily lose steam! Many times this month, I've thought I should pull out of this commitment (at least for this month), but the type A personality embedded within me, along with the Holy Spirit conviction that living for the Lord isn't a program that you can just quit, kept me going!

Truly, 8 in 2008 is about so much more than resolutions. It is about recognizing that God enables us and equips us to serve Him in every area of our lives, and we have the ability to give Him our full attention. When we do so, we find out that God is at work in the most unexpected ways, seeing an intricate meshing of our desires and His desires becoming one in the same. It may not always play out as we expected, leaving us to think we failed God, but I am sure it turns out God's way, with Him redeeming even what seems to add up to failure from our perspective.

This passage from Psalm 37 was a perfectly time reminder to me this morning about what living for God entails. I highlighted in bold the key points I want to remember this month, as it is packed full of practical living. I pray it encourages you as well...

3 Trust in the LORD and do good;
dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.

4 Delight yourself in the LORD
and he will give you the desires of your heart.

5 Commit your way to the LORD;
trust in him and he will do this:

6 He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn,
the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.

7 Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him;
do not fret when men succeed in their ways,
when they carry out their wicked schemes.

8 Refrain from anger and turn from wrath;
do not fret—it leads only to evil.

Onto my update, full of unexpected moments:

1. To keep before me a theme the Lord has put on my heart to Live like Romans 12:1 declares, to Love the 1 Cor 13:4-7 way, and to Laugh as did the woman in Proverbs 31:25. To learn more about this theme, click here!

My doormat at the new house says "Live, Laugh, Love" and every time I pass over it to enter into our fixer-upper, I've had to remind myself to laugh and not cry over all the work. As my friend and new neighbor said, "Your paint job has already added $20,000 to the value of this house." Boy, that is the truth, as a fresh coat of paint does wonders for a house. But she also said, "You know, you're not just treating this as the school's house, but you're caring for it as your home. That is the way to do it, and to live this unusually life here. This will be a wonderful home for your family."

It was this comment that really meant the world to me, as she and her husband have served the school for over 30 years and have raised two wonderful children (and are expecting their first grandbaby this September). They have joy and excellence in what they do, and have always been an example to me, as well as to much of our community.

As I look across the street at her beautiful gardens, there is no pressure to keep up with the Jones', only inspiration to live out our lives for the Lord, finding joy in whatever circumstances and opportunities to serve we find ourselves.

2. Host 8 new people (either new friends and/or their families) to my home for coffee or a meal!

Yes, this month, we did have a special gal at our table. I hope she'll be more than a regular in the months to come, as I love her like a daughter!

We also had a birthday celebrateion for the twins, who turned three on Sunday. I planned only a small family gathering, but the Lord had a party in mind. My inlaws came up for the weekend, friends came over for the birthday cupcakes, and other friends needing a place for their kids joined (while they finished moving out of their home) came over, too.

Sunday afternoon looked like a real party at our place, with balloons, a hodge podge of leftover birthday hats from years past, and the sound of happy kids all over. Who says you need to labor for hours planning your kid's party or hiring a company to give a toddler bash. Just let The Planner of all planners pull it together. It will be blessed and a joyfully relaxed for everyone! (And we even had the "moving" friends for dinner that night, too! -- Go God!!)

3. On the 8th of every month, I'll pray for 8 people whom I care for deeply and have yet to know the Lord.

Yes, and the amazing thing is how some of this people on this list I find myself praying for and thinking of more and more.

4. Memorize 8 verses, which is so hard for me! These are the first five I know the Lord wants me to know backwards and forwards: Rom 12:1, Eph 5:33 amp, 1 Cor 13:4-7, Pro 31:25, 2 Cor 10:5, added Phil 2:13, Phil 2:1-4, added Ephesians 5:21

I haven't added new Scriptures this month, but have been continually reciting Phil 4:6,

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

and my dear friend keeps reminding me to add verse 7, too...

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

5. Read thru Bible in a year, not giving up no matter how far behind we fall. I say "we" because we're doing this as a family--the girls are sure to keep us in line!

We're still reading, and really enjoying Joshua! Be strong and courageous, my friends!

6. Get all photos updated ~ my goal is at least 8 pages per month, even if it means scrapping the scrapbooking in order to get caught up!

Still need to finish the scrapbook pages I stumbled on last month, but I packed them up and will do them when I have the time to do it right.

7. Be able to run 8 laps by October.

My HUGE stride of being on the treadmill 30 minutes 5 days a week came to a screeching halt last week! I am so bummed about that and feel it in my body, too. I need to get back on, but I am so tired from the 18 hour days of caring for the kids, this house, painting the other house, being at VBS with the little ones, and working on stuff for church. I'm hoping that as we near the finish line in painting of the new house followed by moving in, my life will resume a more normal pace and I'll get myself exercising faithfully again.

8. Weigh _ _ 8 by July 8th! And keep it off rest of year! The process is all about submitting to the Lord, which really is the desire of my heart!

I have 3 more pounds to lose. I missed my goal, but I am so thankful to see the downward direction in the scale. It is the physical labor of this move that is burning the calories, and the snickers bars in the freezer and coke in the fridge that is putting it right back on! Hah! For such a time as this, I suppose. I know it will get better!

Thanks for taking the time to read my update. Be sure to link up your post using Mister Linky. I so look forward to reading your posts! Here's the link to the first post, for those that would like to read about the purpose of 8 in 2008. It is never too late to start!

Remember our commitment, too -- We'll praise Him no matter what, for the successes and for the lessons learned. We'll walk in His extravagant grace and begin again with His mercies that are new every morning!

Here's a Word of Assurance from Psalm 31:23-34, for you to take forth this next month of 8 in 2008...

Love the Lord, all his saints! The Lord preserves the faithful, but the proud he pays back in full. Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.

Check In Time Next Week

Hello, my dear 8 in 2008 buddies. Check in time for July is just around the corner -- next Tuesday! Mark your calendars and get those posts ready. Hey, if I can do it in the midst of a move, so can you! Can't wait to spend that time together!

Blessings, always,

8 in 2008: June 8th Check In Time

Psalm 37:4

Delight yourself in the LORD and
he will give you the desires of your heart.

What a month! It has been busy with the end of school year events and celebrations, compounded with our impending move (and all the details that consume such an endeavor). I have been grateful to have the accountability of 8 in 2008, along with this check-in time, to remind me of the things the Lord impressed on my heart five months ago. I've been challenged and sharpened, and ultimately spurred on. I hope you have as well and I look forward to reading your posts!

1. To keep before me a theme the Lord has put on my heart to Live like Romans 12:1 declares, to Love the 1 Cor 13:4-7 way, and to Laugh as did the woman in Proverbs 31:25. To learn more about this theme, click here!

Live, Love, Laugh. That might be the theme of my year, but it certainly has been the theme of this past month. My mantra has been more like the opposite of this slogan, which I hate to admit.

I've been downright Eeyore-like. While the stress of the move and various other factors could be blamed for my downer mood (which has been masked most of the time), I believe I've been under major spiritual attack from Satan. Looking back, I can see how the timing coincides exactly with my commitment to serve on the women's ministry team at church. My husband and I felt strongly that the Lord provided this opportunity and I needed to obediently say yes, even though it scared the daylights out of me. But with my obedience, I also experience such peace and I am excited for what lies ahead.

I was unprepared for the ways Satan would attempt to thwart my obedience and commitment to serve the Lord. Satan can't ever have me, but He can certainly defeat my ability to testify to God's grace when I buy into the lies swarming in my brain and filling up my emotions. When I am sad, angry, and bitter, I am not at all able to serve share the grace of God. I doubt my testimony, feel like a hypocrite when I speak or teach, and that I should never be on WMT (women's ministry team).

Even though I know Christ's power is made perfect in my weakness, this defeated attitude of mine has not been taking hold of that truth. As a matter of fact, as I've dwelled in my own thoughts and emotions, I've strayed from the Word and the truth that sets us all free.

But God, in His mercy, gave me eyes to see and ears to hear that the state of my emotions has much to do with the state of my mind! He also provided this fantastic quote, which set me straight to see much of my problem was as Henri Nouwen describes here.

I'm, again, guarding what I say and what I think against the truth of Scripture. What a difference in just three days time. I feel refreshed and renewed, although I can also see how the "pity-party" attitude was turning into a habit that I need to consistently work to break. Please pray for me on this account!

Live, Love, Laugh. I'm planning on spending the next month making a conscience effort to live this way for the Lord that I love so much.

2. Host 8 new people (either new friends and/or their families) to my home for coffee or a meal!

Nope, Nope, and Nope. For this month, I think we'll be putting our hospitably on hold. Who knew we'd move this summer! Thanks, Lord, that you did!

3. On the 8th of every month, I'll pray for 8 people whom I care for deeply and have yet to know the Lord.

Yes.

4. Memorize 8 verses, which is so hard for me! These are the first five I know the Lord wants me to know backwards and forwards: Rom 12:1, Eph 5:33 amp, 1 Cor 13:4-7, Pro 31:25, 2 Cor 10:5, added Phil 2:13, Phil 2:1-4, added Ephesians 5:21

No time like the present to focus on all these verses. I've been spending a lot of time with Phil 4:6 and Eph 5:22, and I'll continue to camp out there.

5. Read thru Bible in a year, not giving up no matter how far behind we fall. I say "we" because we're doing this as a family--the girls are sure to keep us in line!

We're still reading!

6. Get all photos updated ~ my goal is at least 8 pages per month, even if it means scrapping the scrapbooking in order to get caught up!

Packed the scrapbooks, which were finished under the revised plan, and have a stack of photos to get into albums.

7. Be able to run 8 laps by October.

I've made HUGE strides in this department. Since May 8, I've been on the treadmill 5-6 days a week for 30 minutes a time, and alternating between walking and running. My body is so much stronger! I've firmed up tremendously, which is incredibly motivating! The scale has dropped a few pounds, although I was hoping for more.

So, what's the secret? I've been using Chantel Hobb's approach in her "Never Say Diet: Make Five Decisions and Break the Fat Habit for Good" book, which I received compliments of Waterbrook Press. What a great book and simple system to apply. When I get further along into it, and find more success, I'll be sure to write a review!

8. Weigh _ _ 8 by July 8th! And keep it off rest of year! The process is all about submitting to the Lord, which really is the desire of my heart!

I lost 4 pounds this month and still have 4 more to go. I know I can do it, as long as I'm willing to become a living sacrifice unto the Lord, do the hard thing, and change my attitude about food being fuel instead of being for comfort and reward! I hope I can! Help me, Lord!

Thanks for taking the time to read my update. Be sure to link up your post using Mister Linky. I so look forward to reading your posts! Here's the link to the first post, for those that would like to read about the purpose of 8 in 2008. It is never too late to start!

Remember our commitment, too -- We'll praise Him no matter what, for the successes and for the lessons learned. We'll walk in His extravagant grace and begin again with His mercies that are new every morning!

Here's a Word of Assurance, for you to take forth this next month of 8 in 2008...

The love of God the Father, the faithful creator, the peace of Christ, the wounded healer, the joy of the challenging Spirit, the hope of the Three In One, surround and encourage you today, tonight, and forever.

8 in 2008 is almost here!

My friends, we have an 8 in 2008 check-in this coming Sunday! But since it falls on the Sabbath, I will post on Saturday and you can feel free to post anytime from then through Monday. So, get those check-in posts ready! See you soon!

8 in 2008: May 8th Check In

Psalm 37:4

Delight yourself in the LORD and
he will give you the desires of your heart.

I say this every month, and I just have to say it again -- can you believe how quickly time goes by? Aren't you shocked how the accountability of checking in monthly makes January plans relevant five months later? For me, 8 in 2008, has been critical in keeping my eyes focused on what the Lord is doing in my life and ears attentive to hearing Him speak. I hope and pray you are experiencing the same blessing!

So, here is my check in...

1. To keep before me a theme the Lord has put on my heart to Live like Romans 12:1 declares, to Love the 1 Cor 13:4-7 way, and to Laugh as did the woman in Proverbs 31:25. To learn more about this theme, click here!

I finished, A Grace Disguised: How the Soul Grows through Loss, by Gerald Sittser this past month, which led to a new understanding of God's Sovereignty and the power of His love. Although my grief has been very different than Sittser, I felt comforted when he said, "My loss joined brokenness and love together. Brokenness drove me to love, and I found a source of love that I could not find in myself. I found it in a community, and in the God who creates and sustains community for broken people like me." (p. 167). I am indeed, learning to love in a way I never knew was possible, through the power of God's healing touch.

2. Host 8 new people (either new friends and/or their families) to my home for coffee or a meal!

To be honest, I can't remember if we had anyone over this month. It is all a blur! But I've been noticing that God is calling me more and more to be hospitable and friendly with those I would have been afraid to make myself vulnerable with.

3. On the 8th of every month, I'll pray for 8 people whom I care for deeply and have yet to know the Lord.

Yes. And I find myself thinking and praying for these people more and more.

4. Memorize 8 verses, which is so hard for me! These are the first five I know the Lord wants me to know backwards and forwards: Rom 12:1, Eph 5:33 amp, 1 Cor 13:4-7, Pro 31:25, 2 Cor 10:5, added Phil 2:13, Phil 2:1-4, added Ephesians 5:21

Nope. My test is whether I can recite them right now. I'd have to go look most up. So I'll focus on that this month!

5. Read thru Bible in a year, not giving up no matter how far behind we fall. I say "we" because we're doing this as a family--the girls are sure to keep us in line!

We're still plugging along. Thank you, Jesus, and thank you for everyone's encouraging comments last month!

6. Get all photos updated ~ my goal is at least 8 pages per month, even if it means scrapping the scrapbooking in order to get caught up!

Found a few more pages to scrapbook that were overlooked, and I think the move will motivate me to finish! I hope!

7. Be able to run 8 laps by October.

My back has been out and I've been in PT again, so that is a clear reminder that while running is great, a total body workout is more important. I'm focusing now on endurance, with walking, and strength building, and will grow into the running in time!

8. Weigh _ _ 8 by July 8th! And keep it off rest of year! The process is all about submitting to the Lord, which really is the desire of my heart!

I have about 8 pounds to lose to get to my goal. I've lost around 4 pounds and have kept it off. I'm reading through, "Never Say Diet" (compliments of Waterbrook Press) and that is reshaping my thinking about health in a very good way. Stay tuned for a full report when I finish the book!

Be sure to link up your post using Mister Linky. Continue to spread the word to your readers, encouraging them to join in. It is never too late to start! Here's the link to the first post, for those that would like to read about the purpose of 8 in 2008.

Remember our commitment, too -- We'll praise Him no matter what, for the successes and for the lessons learned. We'll walk in His extravagant grace and begin again with His mercies that are new every morning!

Here's a Word of Assurance, for you to take forth this next month of 8 in 2008...

The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. As a father has compassion for his children, so the LORD has compassion for those who fear him. For he knows how we were made; he remembers we are dust. But the steadfast love of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him, and his righteousness to children's children, to those who keep his covenant and remember to do his commandments.
Psalm 103:8, 13-14, 17-18 NRSV.

Giveaway and 8 in 2008

Ladies, ladies, I pray you will have some time to read some of the wonderful posts written by talented women entering the "I'm Glad I'm a Mom" giveaway. I have been so blessed and encouraged by them! Scroll through the comments on this post and follow the blogger profiles or links to get to the posts. Mister Linky vanished when I put up the new design. Stay tune for a winner to be drawn on Monday!

Another check-in time is just around the corner! Can you believe it? Our 5th month of accountability, and I am so grateful for it. Can't wait to catch up with each one of you next week! Get those posts going!

Blessings, friends,

8 in 2008: April Check In

The love of God the Father, the faithful creator, the peace of Christ, the wounded healer, the joy of the challenging Spirit, the hope of the Three In One, Surround and encourage us today, tonight, and forever. Amen.

This was the blessing I offered forth at the end of last month. Did you come to see God as our faithful creator? Did you experience the peace of Christ? Were you encouraged by the Three in One?

I find that one of the best, yet most surprising side-effect of doing 8 in 2008 is seeing what God has accomplished, regardless of my own efforts or lack there of. This month, I really had to go back and look at my list, because I could only remember a few of the things I had determined were important back in January. HAH! As I reviewed, I was reminded that intentionality really does need a check-in time and friends to be intentional with! Thanks, ladies, for joining me in this endeavor, as I know I wouldn't be writing this post without you!

So, here's my confession of sorts..

1. To keep before me a theme the Lord has put on my heart to Live like Romans 12:1 declares, to Love the 1 Cor 13:4-7 way, and to Laugh as did the woman in Proverbs 31:25. To learn more about this theme, click here!

It was a quieter month for this theme, with no great profound truth coming forth. Yet, my Bible has often been opened to Romans and Corinthians. Thank you, Jesus, for what you are continuing to teach me through your Word!

2. Host 8 new people (either new friends and/or their families) to my home for coffee or a meal!

Although the "8" has been satisfied for the year, we're continuing to focus on hospitality. It was great fun to have my dear friend's family over for a spontaneous dinner. God continues to bless our family as we step out in faith, being hospital in our hearts, instead of getting hung up on the details of "where will we all sit, what will we eat, etc.".

3. On the 8th of every month, I'll pray for 8 people whom I care for deeply and have yet to know the Lord.

Yes. I will. And I find myself praying for those on this list at other times, too.

4. Memorize 8 verses, which is so hard for me! These are the first five I know the Lord wants me to know backwards and forwards: Rom 12:1, Eph 5:33 amp, 1 Cor 13:4-7, Pro 31:25, 2 Cor 10:5, added Phil 2:13, Phil 2:1-4, added Ephesians 5:22

God added another verse this month. Ephesians 5:21 was the the crux of a talk I was supposed to give on Girls, Guys, and God, which didn't actually happen (although it may on the 15th!). This verse continues to come up in my studies and thoughts. Here it is with a few different twists on the translation...

Ephesians 5:21

NIV ~ Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.

MESSAGE ~ Out of respect for Christ, be courteously reverent to one another.

NASB ~ and be subject to one another in the fear of Christ.

5. Read thru Bible in a year, not giving up no matter how far behind we fall. I say "we" because we're doing this as a family--the girls are sure to keep us in line!

This is sooooo hard! I have so many excuses. The girls are tired, and so are we, at the end of a day. Our middle daughter was sick for over a week, so bedtimes have been crucial. Yet any other time to read is a challenge, because when twins are awake makes it very hard to concentrate. We haven't given up, however, and hope to finish Numbers this week. Pray for us to make this a priority!

6. Get all photos updated ~ my goal is at least 8 pages per month, even if it means scrapping the scrapbooking in order to get caught up!

Done! AMEN! Well, still a few straggling photos to pin down. I'll make that the goal for next month!

7. Be able to run 8 laps by October.

I'm still getting on the treadmill about 3 days a week, but I want to increase to four. I'm running about half the time, which is better than walking!

8. Weigh _ _ 8 by July 8th! And keep it off rest of year! The process is all about submitting to the Lord, which really is the desire of my heart!

This has been an extremely hard month when it comes to food! As I said to my husband the other night, I just need to quit eating cookies. If only money found it's way to our wallets like cookies find our kitchen! I'd be rich. He said, "Well, just throw them out." My response, "I can't. I love them!" Ick. Love cookies. No sooner did that come out of my mouth did I realized I have a serious issue to face with the Lord. At least I finally said it, so now I can repent and move forward.

I also realized that I feel pretty terrible about how I look, as my skin is broken out almost as badly as it was in high school. It isn't the appearance that gets me as much as the pain! With every cystic pimple, I grow more and more sad and angry, even though I know I ought to just give it up to the Lord and yield to the lessons He is teaching me about faith, perseverance, suffering, and identity in Christ. Even so, I go through cycles of feeling really terrible about myself and when I do, I tend to eat what I otherwise would not. I covet your prayers to see myself through God's eyes and to offer my body as a Living Sacrifice. Only if my mindset changes (hmm, can we say Holy Habits), will my behavior change!

I can't wait to hear your experiences. Be sure to link up your post using Mister Linky. Continue to spread the word to your readers, encouraging them to join in. It is never too late to start! Here's the link to the first post, for those that would like to read about the purpose of 8 in 2008.

Remember our commitment, too -- We'll praise Him no matter what, for the successes and for the lessons learned. We'll walk in His extravagant grace and begin again with His mercies that are new every morning!

Here's a perfect blessing for the next month of 8 in 2008...

Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow;
Praise Him, all creatures here below;
Praise Him above, ye heavenly host;
Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.

Psalm 37:4

Delight yourself in the LORD and
he will give you the desires of your heart.

Thankful Thursday is here and 8 in 2008 is coming

Today happens to be Thankful Thursday and Iris at Sting My Heart continues to be a faithful steward of this outrageously growing meme! If you want to be blessed, inspired, and encouraged, head over to her blog to read all those dozens and dozens of posts and especially her thoughts of thankfulness for today.

Today, I am thankful for so many things, but one verse sticks out in my mind, which captures all that is going on in my life:

"My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. 'As the heaves are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.'" Isaiah 55:8-9

These are just some of the things that I am thankful that God thought differently about...

I thought I'd only have two children
...His way gave me four.
I thought I'd be a big-time professional
...His way provided for me to be a mom at home.
I thought I'd have to live in a big house with a picket fence in order to be happy
...His way has proven that by His love, grace, and salvation comes my happiness.
I thought I'd need a better place to call home
...He has shown me that this house is a home that is blessed.
I thought I'd never be able to be a mom that doesn't yell
...He has healed my soul and brought peace to our family, calmness to my voice.
I thought I'd be busy writing a book now
...He way has me writing and designing for blogs, and composing talks for teenage girls instead.
I thought I knew what love was
...He is showing me all that love is.

Thank you, Lord, that your ways are not my ways!

~~~~~

Can you believe that our next check in for 8 in 2008 is less than a week away? Mark your calendars, ladies, because next Tuesday is April 8th! Come by and be blessed as we witness what the Lord has been accomplishing in our lives! It is not to late to join in! Click the button below to find out how!

8 in 2008: March 8th Check-In Time

Well, ladies, we're into the third month of 2008! Can you believe it!!! I feel like time is just flying by, and with it memories of the New Year are fading fast.

How are you doing on your 8 in 2008? Do you see intentional living happening? What is important to you now, compared to three months ago? I can't wait to read your lists!

I am so incredibly thankful to be doing this 8 in 2008, as the list and former posts are a reminder to me of the things I deemed important just 90 days ago. Here's where I stand on them now...

1. To keep before me a theme the Lord has put on my heart to Live like Romans 12:1 declares, to Love the 1 Cor 13:4-7 way, and to Laugh as did the woman in Proverbs 31:25. To learn more about this theme, click here!

I continue to face these three theme verses over and and over again. The living sacrifice piece is a constant reminder when it comes to food, exercise, and giving of my time to others. It has also partnered with the love theme in opening my eyes to how becoming a living sacrifice in marriage is the opposite of being selfish.

Learning that lesson was the result of a fight with my husband. Like many couples, we end up in the crazy cycle for no apparent reason, fighting the same fight but not knowing why. Such a fight happened just two weeks ago, but this time my husband recognized the problem and I was humbled enough to agree. He boldly declared that most of our fights are due to the fact that we are selfish. Ugh! I didn't want to admit it, but he was right. We think "our thing" is more important than the "other's thing," asking the other to take care of something because we think that what we are in the midst of is more important. We end up in a fight, feeling that the other has either bossed or neglected us.

Selfishness is indeed the problem. If we think of each other as better than ourselves, we wouldn't be so quick to ask the other to stop what they are doing to serve our needs. Ever since this Holy Spirit-convicted moment earlier this month, we've both been intentional at serving instead of being selfish. Praise the Lord, for there is a new peace in our relationship and home.

2. Host 8 new people (either new friends and/or their families) to my home for coffee or a meal!

This has been GREAT for our family! In our two week break, we were able to share meals with two different families and a bunch of teenagers. We are feeling God's blessing, especially because I am not stressing about it at all and don't feel wiped afterward. What a joy! I think the "8" has been satisfied for the year, but I'll keep going!

3. On the 8th of every month, I'll pray for 8 people whom I care for deeply and have yet to know the Lord.

Yes. I will.

4. Memorize 8 verses, which is so hard for me! These are the first five I know the Lord wants me to know backwards and forwards: Rom 12:1, Eph 5:33 amp, 1 Cor 13:4-7, Pro 31:25, 2 Cor 10:5, added Phil 2:13, Phil 2:1-4

God added to this verse list this month. Philippians 2:13 came up repeatedly in my studies, and I've been working on memorizing it. As I was reading it in context, I came across Philippians 2:1-4. Now that passage, in light of the lessons on selfishness learned with my husband, has become my new mantra marriage. Care to memorize it with me!

Philippians 2:1-4

1If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. 3Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. 4Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.

5. Read thru Bible in a year, not giving up no matter how far behind we fall. I say "we" because we're doing this as a family--the girls are sure to keep us in line!

If it wasn't for my husband, this would be a major failure. It is his discipline that is keeping us going. The girls are 100% behind it most of the time, too. It has meant a sacrifice on bedtime stories and going to bed later, which also translates into less evening time for me. I admit, I bristle at this, and then feel convicted by my priorities. God is using this experience to grow me and refine my character, definitely!

6. Get all photos updated ~ my goal is at least 8 pages per month, even if it means scrapping the scrapbooking in order to get caught up!

I still have three months from the end of 2006 to scrapbook, but all of the 2007 photos are in a traditional album. I need to go back and add dates and notes, which I hope to do by May 8th! March is too busy with speaking engagements to put in the time now. It is a relief to take this hobby that became a chore off my plate. Now when I paint on Sundays with the girls, I don't feel guilty!

7. Be able to run 8 laps by October.

I'm on the treadmill about 3 days a week. I want to do at least four, and increase from walking most of the time to running.

8. Weigh _ _ 8 by July 8th! And keep it off rest of year! The process is all about submitting to the Lord, which really is the desire of my heart!

No weight loss month. Bummer. But no gain either! I need to increase water intake and decrease sugar...still!!! I'm continuing to focus on saying no to the sweets I don't like, instead of just eating them because they are sweet. That's progress!

I can't wait to hear your experiences. Be sure to link up your post using Mister Linky. Continue to spread the word to your readers, encouraging them to join in. It is never too late to start! Here's the link to the first post, for those that would like to read about the purpose of 8 in 2008.

Remember our commitment, too -- We'll praise Him no matter what, for the successes and for the lessons learned. We'll walk in His extravagant grace and begin again with His mercies that are new every morning!

Here's a perfect blessing for the next month of 8 in 2008...

The love of God the Father, the faithful creator, the peace of Christ, the wounded healer, the joy of the challenging Spirit, the hope of the Three In One, Surround and encourage us today, tonight, and forever. Amen.

Psalm 37:4

Delight yourself in the LORD and
he will give you the desires of your heart.

P.S. I'll be by to read all your posts next week, as I'll be away from the computer for the weekend! With the 8th falling on a Saturday, it just doesn't jive with the schedule at hand!

8 in 2008 Reminder

Hi Ladies! Our next 8 in 2008 check in is just a few days away! It is a great week to reflect on what the Lord laid on our hearts just a few months ago as we prepare to come together to share what He has done and taught us in the process.

The linky will be up on Friday, as I'll be away this weekend. Looking forward to seeing all your posts when I get back!

8 in 2008: February 8th Check In Time

So, what did you think about having eight different things to focus on living intentionally with this past month?

For the most part, I just went about life as normal, even forgetting about my list. But there were times when it smacked me right in the face, gut, heart, and soul, as the Lord confirmed again the things He wants me to do through His strength and for His glory.

As I've spent the past week looking over my 8 in 2008 list, I've been struck by how He's worked (and I am posting a day earlier, as the next 48 hours will be super busy)....

1. To keep before me a theme the Lord has put on my heart to Live like Romans 12:1 declares, to Love the 1 Cor 13:4-7 way, and to Laugh as did the woman in Proverbs 31:25. To learn more about this theme, click here!

WOW is all I can say! I've heard too many sermons to count on the Romans and Corinthians verses, which deeply ministered to my soul and offered practical reminders of what it means love God's way and and to offer our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. In addition, the Experiencing God study has focused primarily on God's love for us. I can not believe how much I am truly beginning to comprehend that! In the midst of a devastating rejection by someone I love, I have sensed God's love for me in the most intimate way. PTL!

In addition, my time with teen girls has exploded over the past month and the Romans 12:1-2 continues to be part of those many conversations. As a result, the Lord has inspired me to build a new blog, just for them, apart from Extravagant Grace, called Refresh...stay tune for it's debut...that ties this verse and our stories together for their encouragement.

2. Host 8 new people (either new friends and/or their families) to my home for coffee or a meal!

God's ways are not our ways. I envisioned gatherings with neighbors and strangers, but instead we:
~ spontaneously invited a student to stay for dinner
~ hosted an after Christmas party for over 30 students
~ I've had tea with 7 different students in the past three weeks! WOW!

3. On the 8th of every month, I'll pray for 8 people whom I care for deeply and have yet to know the Lord.

Yes.

4. Memorize 8 verses, which is so hard for me! These are the first five I know the Lord wants me to know backwards and forwards: Rom 12:1, Eph 5:33 amp, 1 Cor 13:4-7, Pro 31:25, 2 Cor 10:5

I think I have Romans 12:1 down. Yippee!

5. Read thru Bible in a year, not giving up no matter how far behind we fall. I say "we" because we're doing this as a family--the girls are sure to keep us in line!

This has been so hard to keep up with, but we are persevering, even if we need to read multiple days on the weekends. So far, we've read all of Genesis and Job, and are into Exodus. Even though I find myself fading during the readings, overall I'm getting the breath of God's Word and reminded of some favorite Scriptures. Stories are being knit together. It is cool!

6. Get all photos updated ~ my goal is at least 8 pages per month, even if it means scrapping the scrapbooking in order to get caught up!

Ick. I finally came to terms with the fact that I don't want to scrapbook anymore, but that I do believe photokeeping is valuable for our families. So, I ordered 200 photos from 2006 through presented day, bought two albums, and hope to have them put together by March 8th. The scrapbooking is something I can return to later in life, if I choose.

It is sad, in a way, because I loved it so much. But that was before I began writing, speaking, and designing. It was also before I had four children that I wanted to spend time with. Together, we can paint, which we love to do on Sundays as a hobby together. Scrapping just doesn't seem to work the same way. This is a big, big, deal to me, as it totally against my nature to let something go, simplify and move on. It is a mixed feeling of sadness and relief.

7. Be able to run 8 laps by October.

I've been using the treadmill, which tickles me to no end at how the Lord provides. I still need to "get in the groove" (as Valley Girl describes) and hope to give that some attention this month.

8. Weigh _ _ 8 by July 8th! And keep it off rest of year! The process is all about submitting to the Lord, which really is the desire of my heart!

I've lost 2 pounds. Most importantly, I had major successes saying no to food that I just didn't need to eat and drinking more water. I feel like I'm moving in the right direction. I'm losing the mentality that says "no" is bad, and find myself thinking more in terms of Romans 12:1 -- that if I love the body God gave me...and the God that created me...I ought to show it by how I care for myself. Although I need to watch the sugar intake. It has been on the rise again. Pray for me!

I really think this little effort to be intentional in 2008 is worth it. If nothing else, I'm seeing God at work all around me instead of just coasting through life without thought.

I can't wait to hear your experiences. Be sure to link up your post using Mister Linky. Continue to spread the word to your readers, encouraging them to join in. It is never too late to start! Here's the link to the first post, for those that would like to read about the purpose of 8 in 2008.

Remember our commitment, too -- We'll praise Him no matter what, for the successes and for the lessons learned. We'll walk in His extravagant grace and begin again with His mercies that are new every morning!

Here's a perfect invocation for the next month of 8 in 2008...

"O gracious and holy God, give us diligence to seek you, wisdom to perceive you, and patience to wait for you. Grant us, O God, a mind to meditate on you, eyes to behold you, ears to listen for your Word, a heart to love you, and a life to proclaim you, through the power of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen." ~source unknown

Psalm 37:4

Delight yourself in the LORD
and
he will give you the desires of your heart.

P.S. I'll be by to read all your posts in the next few days. You can pray for me in the meantime, as I'm speaking to a group of precious women in a recovery home on Saturday night. It is an outreach of my mom's group. We're bringing them dinner, and they've asked for me to bring a message, too.

8 in 2008 Reminder

UPDATED

For all those wondering if it is too late to join in, please, please, please do! It is never too late to decide to live intentionally for Jesus! We're looking forward to adding to our accountability group each month! Spread the word and play along!




Hey Ladies! It is just a few days away from doing our first 8 in 2008 check in! I'm excited for the accountability to review the intentional living hopes for 2008! See you on Friday!

And the winner is...

And the winner of the drawing for "When God Sees Me Through," by Anita Corrine Donihue, is...

Java Mama at Embracing the Journey!

Miss Java Mama, send your snail mail address to extragrace (at) gmail (.) com, and I'll get it in the mail to you!

Thanks to everyone participating in 8 in 2008! What a wonderful group that has formed! Be sure to visit their links, if you haven't already done so, and offer some encouraging words. We'll meet back here on February 8th to link up our update posts and hold each other accountable. Feel free to keep spreading the word and encouraging others to join in each months, too!

Though no one can go back and make
A brand new start, my friend,
Quite anyone can start from now
And make a brand new end.
~ source unknown~

8 in 2008: Accountability Time!!

What a wonderful response so many of you have had to living intentionally this year! Many have left encouraging comments as well as links to your own enthusiastic lists for your 8 in 2008! Thank you! Thank you!

As promised, just for spreading the word about 8 in 2008, using random number generator...

Twinkle Mom

...was selected as the winner of 31 Days of Praise, by Ruth Myers. Be sure to send your snail mail address to extragrace (at) gmail (.) com!

After catching a glimpse of Dr. Phil's episode on "No Kidding New Year's Resolutions" last week, I'm convinced that the way for us to truly make any good on 8 in 2008 is accountability. So you can count on coming back here the 8th of every month to "report in" and be encouraged to press on!

Together, we'll become the best bloggy accountability group ever connected through cyberspace! And together, we'll praise God for those 8 in 2008 things He's enabled us to accomplish, and we'll even praise God for the mercy He bestows on us when we fall short!

May I have a drum roll please!!! Here's my 8 in 2008 list:

1. To keep before me a theme the Lord has put on my heart to Live like Romans 12:1 declares, to Love the 1 Cor 13:4-7 way, and to Laugh as did the woman in Proverbs 31:25. To learn more about this theme, click here!
   
2. Host 8 new people (either new friends and/or their families) to my home for coffee or a meal!
3. On the 8th of every month, I'll pray for 8 people whom I care for deeply and have yet to know the Lord.
4. Memorize 8 verses, which is so hard for me! These are the first five I know the Lord wants me to know backwards and forwards: Rom 12:1, Eph 5:33 amp, 1 Cor 13:4-7, Pro 31:25, 2 Cor 10:5
5. Read thru Bible in a year, not giving up no matter how far behind we fall. I say "we" because we're doing this as a family--the girls are sure to keep us in line!
6. Get all photos updated ~ my goal is at least 8 pages per month, even if it means scrapping the scrapbooking in order to get caught up!
   
7. Be able to run 8 laps by October. (Now this is so cool--I've wanted a treadmill forever, but they are too expensive for us, even with the New Year's sales. Last week, we decided, confidently, to not make the investment. The next day, my mom called after my sister mentioned seeing a treadmill on the side of the road. Hubby sprinted out and grabbed. It works, with just one part needing replacement. How cool is that!! Thank you, Lord!)
8. Weigh _ _ 8 by July 8th! And keep it off rest of year! This will truly be a miracle, as I haven't weighed this since before my first pregnancy, over 8 years ago! But it is just 12 pounds away and I know with discipline I can do this. The process is all about submitting to the Lord, which really is the desire of my heart!
   

Lord, I commit this goals unto you! I pray you would enable me to live intentionally, lovingly, and sacrificially, in 2008.

I can't wait to read your 8 in 2008 over this next week. Link up, so that everyone can see your goals and truly hold you accountable. Everyone that signs the Mister Linky will be automatically entered in the drawing for "When God Sees Me Through: Devotional thoughts on God's Faithfulness for Women," by Anita Corrine Donihue.

See you again, for 8 in 2008, on February 8th!

Remember...

Delight yourself in the LORD
and He will give you
the desires of your heart.

Psalm 37:4

Live, Love, Laugh ~ My theme for 2008

Part of living life more intentionally, as I'm seeking to do with 8 in 2008, has been inspired by the way the Lord continues to impress certain lessons on my heart. No matter where I turn or what I am doing, there seems to be a theme for that particular season in life.

As this New Year approached, I was on the lookout for a new theme verse (or verses) for 2008. I didn't want to just launch into my thing, but to be before God in His thing. After much prayer and reflection, I'm sure that the theme for 2008 is very much from Him and I am excited to see how God will surely work, stretching my heart, soul, and mind as He teaches me to:

LIVE
~ as in become a living sacrifice according to Romans 12:1~

LOVE
~ as in learning to love according to 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 ~



LAUGH
~ as in just one of the quality of the Proverbs 31 woman, found in verse 28 ~

In many ways, this theme was inspired by a necklace I received back in October as a gift with purchase. I would never have picked it out, and even tossed it aside for a time. I'm not sure when I first began wearing it, but from that point forward, I found myself repeating the phrase engraved on it, "Live, Love, Laugh."

Slowly, I realized that this is exactly what the Lord has been honing in on in my life. He revealed to me this past summer that I wasn't loving my husband the way God has called me to do (1 Cor 13) and by late fall I was certain that was I caring for my body as a spiritual act of worship (Romans 12:1). In general, God has been also showing me the reality that I spend more time worrying about the future instead of trusting Him, robbing me of much laughter (Proverbs 31:28).

This year, my prayer is that I will be intentional to live, love, and laugh the way God intended for those who know Him intimately! I'm praying for a softening of my heart so that I can love deeply, to have a new understanding of what it means to be a living sacrifice, and to move to a new level of trusting the Lord fully with all the things of the future.

I'm excited about what's ahead as I seek to live out this theme. I hope to share the journey with you, so keep a look out for Live, Love, and Laugh posts. Feel free to borrow this button, if it this theme fits with what you feel God may be impressing on your heart for 2008, too! I'd love to hear about your theme verse or lesson of the season the Lord has put before you, too!

Heavenly Father, we give you this year and pray for your extravagant grace to take hold of our hearts, minds, and souls as we bow before you and learn from you! In Jesus Name, Amen!

<center><a href="http://www.extravagantgrace.net/2008/01/live-love-laugh-my-theme-for-2008.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i123.photobucket.com/albums/o308/epulliam19/lllbutton.gif" border="0" /></a><br /></center><br /><br /><br />

~~~~~~~~

God truly understands my love language of gifts! I wanted to be able to share my necklace with you, in case you feel led to adopt this theme and, like me, treasure reminders of the God-lessons before us. After searching google, I found it Amazon! How cool is that!